More Than A Test

In today's episode, we're thrilled to be joined by Dr. David Miyashiro, the innovative superintendent of the Cajon School District in California. In this episode, hosted by Laura Glaab, we'll dive into Dr. Miyashiro's groundbreaking approach to education, which goes far beyond traditional test scores.

From his initial drive to teach all students coding, to discovering the diverse career paths within a company like Qualcomm, Dr. Miyashiro has continually evolved his methods to expose students to myriad opportunities based on their strengths, interests, and values. We’ll explore the unique curriculum he's spearheaded, which not only narrows the gap between open jobs and skilled labor but also resonates deeply with special education students and has expanded to districts as far as Pennsylvania.

We'll hear about his remarkable journey from aspiring dentist and performing artist to educational leader, and how his pioneering spirit led him to create a charter school when told it was impossible. Dr. Miyashiro discusses the pivotal role of supportive relationships with teachers' unions and school boards in fostering a thriving, risk-taking culture within his district.

Additionally, we’ll delve into his future-oriented vision involving generative AI, personalized learning pathways, and meaningful assessments, inspired by concepts like Switzerland's apprenticeship model. Plus, we get a glimpse into his personal interests, including his tech favorites, passion for acting, and thoughts on leadership from insightful reads like Excellence Wins by Horace Schultz.

Timestamps

00:00 CHROs discuss generative AI in the corporate world

06:03 Children need intentional career exploration from kindergarten.

08:16 Qualcomm offers varied job opportunities and education.

11:52 Challenging the system, creating new educational pathways.

17:57 High school wrestler pursues performing arts, teaching.

20:19 Challenged authority to improve educational opportunities.

22:14 Turnaround principal improves schools and focuses on life outcomes.

26:01 Schools need to adapt to each student.

30:58 Swiss vocational education thrives; USA can learn.

34:40 Encouraging a culture where everyone can share ideas.

36:00 Simon Sinek: Trust is more important than intelligence.

40:17 Horace Schultz built the Ritz Carlton with Excellence.

Connect with Dr. David Miyashiro

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmiyashiro/ 

Website: https://www.cajonvalley.net/cajon 

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About More Than a Test

Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology.

Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears.

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JWhVG2nXZfC3FxOviFoR0 

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-a-test/id1685012543 

Listen on Other Platforms: https://more-than-a-test.captivate.fm/ 

About Amira Learning

Amira is the world’s first intelligent reading assistant that provides personalized tutoring to students at school, after school, or home. Students working with Amira experience significant improvements in their reading fluency.

About your Host, Laura Glaab

Laura Glaab is a VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents.

She's worked as a teacher and leader in public, private, and charter schools in places as far as India and as close to home as Boulder, Colorado. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Wyoming, and Kellogg School of Management.

Everyone should read Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw and the entire Piggie and Elephant Collection by Mo Willems.

Connect with Laura

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab/ 

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Visit Amira Learning: https://www.amiralearning.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/amira-learning 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amira-learning

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amira_learning/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Amira-Learning-App-100064672554061/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmiraLearning 

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Produced by Old Soul: https://bit.ly/3KuYfrD