Exploring the Intersection of Innovation and Technology in Education with Dr. Monica Goldson

We would love to hear from you, send us a text!

In this compelling episode, Monica Enand and guest co-host Ned Renzi delve into the dynamic intersection of educational leadership and technology with Dr. Monica Goldson, the retired CEO of Prince George's County Public Schools. Dr. Goldson's journey to becoming one of the pioneering leaders in one of the nation's largest and most diverse school districts offers invaluable insights into managing complex educational systems and driving innovation during challenging times.

Dr. Goldson's story is a testament to the power of dedication and adaptability. Starting as a mathematics teacher, she rose through various leadership roles, ultimately overseeing a $2.4 billion budget as CEO during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her current role at EdExec Leadership Group continues to influence educational leadership and development. This episode highlights the importance of visionary leadership in navigating crises and seizing opportunities for transformative change.

One of the critical aspects discussed is the complexity of managing a large school district with a diverse board of 14 members, half elected and half appointed. Dr. Goldson emphasizes the importance of having board members with specialized knowledge in areas such as business, construction, and finance to effectively manage substantial budgets. The episode also explores the difficulties superintendents face in aligning board members and making tough decisions, including knowing when it's time to step down.

The potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in education is another significant topic. Dr. Goldson explains how AI can enhance student learning and streamline teachers' workloads. AI assists students with tasks like outlining papers, getting immediate feedback, and understanding complex problems, fostering creative learning. For teachers, AI can significantly reduce burnout by automating routine tasks such as drafting parent communications, creating lesson plans, and checking for assessment bias. The rapid technological advancements in education, accelerated by the pandemic, are reshaping the educational landscape, making student-centered learning more accessible.

Equity and excellence in education are at the forefront of this discussion. Dr. Goldson shares strategies for ensuring equitable resource distribution across diverse school districts. The role of the U.S. Department of Education in local school districts is scrutinized, with a call for the Department to focus more on providing technical assistance rather than enforcing compliance tied to funding. Emerging educational technologies that support students outside school hours, especially those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, are highlighted as crucial tools for bridging educational gaps. In our final segment, we explore the role of technology in creating a more equitable and effective educational system. Dr. Goldson highlights the importance of understanding community needs and leveraging technology to meet those needs.

Georgianna Moreland - Creator, Executive Producer & Managing Editor;
Matt Stoker - Editor