Welcome to the Learning Counsel Learning Logistics & Tech Tour in the Bay Area, CA! We are excited to present an insightful panel discussion moderated by LeiLani Cauthen, CEO of the Learning Counsel. Joining her today are Crystal Castañeda, Superintendent of Byron Union School District, and Debbie Neighbors, Coordinator of Education Services for the district.

This conversation dives into the pressures, challenges, and evolving strategies in education today. LeiLani opens by asking both Crystal and Debbie what they are feeling in the field and what pressures are shaping their roles as education leaders.

Crystal shares the overwhelming shift teachers are experiencing with curriculum changes, including the reintegration of science into daily instruction and the constant need for intentional planning to make the most of every instructional minute. She emphasizes the need to listen to teachers, provide support like release days and observation opportunities, and keep pushing forward for the sake of the students, even amid discomfort with new approaches.

Debbie, also the lead LCAP writer for the district, highlights findings from feedback that parents, students, and teachers alike are expressing a desire for a balance between technology use and traditional learning methods, with many asking for more pencil-to-paper activities. Debbie speaks to the challenge of honoring this input while still proving the effectiveness of the technology being implemented.

Join us for this thought-provoking discussion as Crystal and Debbie share how they are navigating these complex dynamics and leading their district through change.