Where education leaders share real stories of district transformation and uncover the variables that drive sustainable change.
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Episode 23
October 28th, 2025 
45 min
Building Systems of Belonging in California Schools with Ernesto Duran
On this episode of The K-12 Change Equation Dr. Mort Sherman & Dr. Leila Nuland sit down with Ernesto Duran, Regional Director for California’s Region 8, about how county offices of education are creating systems that expand opportunity beyond the school day. From after-school programs and workforce readiness to family engagement and mental health, Ernesto shares how expanded learning is helping students and educators thrive. He reflects on his own journey as an English learner and the educators who shaped his path—underscoring why connection, culture, and community still drive meaningful change.
Ernesto Duran
Regional Director
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Episode 22
October 11, 2025 50 min
When Leadership Becomes a Compass Not a Crown featuring Dr. Gladys I Cruz
On this episode of The K-12 Change Equation, Mort Sherman and Dr. Leila Nuland talk with Dr. Gladys Cruz (Questar III BOCES) about how regional education agencies scale career-ready programs, build apprenticeship pipelines, and solve staffing gaps — all while rethinking assessment and the “portrait of a graduate.” Listen for practical next steps for leaders, partners, and policymakers.
Dr. Gladys Cruz
District Superintendent
Questar III BOCES
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Episode 21
September 30th, 2025 40 min
Learning, Leading & Lifting a Conversation with Dr. Andrae Townsel
On this episode of The K-12 Change Equation, Dr. Mort Sherman & Dr. Leila Nuland sit down with Dr. Andrae Townsel, Hartford's new superintendent, for a powerful conversation about urban education leadership. Dr. Townsel shares his philosophy of urgency over speed, his "Acres of Diamonds" approach to finding potential in challenging communities, and why students can't wait for leaders to figure it out. From Detroit roots to turning around districts in Michigan and Maryland, he discusses competing with school choice, building cascading culture change, and his role as incoming president of the National Alliance of Black School Educators.
Dr. Andrae Townsel
Superintendent of Hartford
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Dr. Leila Nuland
Senior Vice President & General Manager
Leila helps district leaders take on their toughest challenges and create sustainable transformations in K–12 education. A former high school history teacher, she launched a Ninth Grade Academy model to support diverse learners and has since partnered with districts nationwide on high-impact strategies, equity audits, and professional development. Known for her inclusive leadership, she blends evidence-based practices with empathy to create environments where educators and students thrive. She’s also a proud mother of three, an avid runner, and finds joy in cooking, meditation, and reading fiction.
Dr. Mort Sherman
Executive Advisor
Mort Sherman has spent more than 40 years helping schools and communities create better futures for students, including 25 years as superintendent in districts such as Alexandria City Public Schools (VA) and Cherry Hill Public Schools (NJ). At AASA, The School Superintendents Association, he launched leadership programs that continue to shape the profession. A former teacher and principal, Mort brings wisdom, creativity, and a deep love for public education. He enjoys time with his family, exploring the arts, and building connections in the communities he serves.