Growing the Forest & the Trees: Big Pictures and Everyday Realities in Education

Thinking as if There is No Box

Schools in Jefferson County are doing things differently. And it all starts with school superintendent Dr. Walter Gonsoulin.
He was named National School Superintendent of the Year in 2025.
Under his leadership, Jefferson County Schools has seen a 357% increase in the number of students that earned industry credentials, indicating that those students possess the qualifications for entry-level employment. 
So how did he do it? We’ll find out today on Growing the Forest and the Trees.

Embrace the Mess - Growing the Forest & the Trees - February 2026

Think back to your schooldays. Were you expected to sit in a neat row of desks? Did you raise your hand when you needed to ask a question?
Matthew Monson is the director of operations, maintenance, and safety for Ozark City Schools. He's also a former teacher and principal. Today on the Growing the Forest and the Trees podcast, he’ll talk about why he encourages teachers to ditch the traditional, regimented classroom and embrace the mess.

The Power of Data - Growing the Forest and the Trees - December 2025

Numbers don't lie! On this episode of "Growing the Forest and the Trees," principal Rodney Drish explains how he uses data to help teachers, students, and parents.

Alabama Bans Cell Phones in Schools - Growing the Forest and the Trees - October 2025

Earlier this year, the state of Alabama banned cell phones in public schools, with many saying the phones are a distraction to students. But others say phones should be allowed for educational purposes and in case of emergencies.
Dr. Eric Mackey is the Alabama State Superintendent of Education. He is a lifelong educator and former science teacher. He's in favor of the ban. He'll tell us why and talk about the challenges and opportunities technology presents in public education.

What is Conscious Discipline? - Growing the Forest & the Trees - August 2025

We’re getting to the root of the issues facing educators today, connecting teachers with experts, and finding resources and solutions.Through conversations with our guests, and hopefully you as well, we’ll all learn and grow together.From the little saplings to the tallest oaks, this is Growing the Forest and the Trees: big pictures and everyday realities in Education. 
Holli Richardson is the principal at New Brockton Elementary School in New Brockton, Alabama.She has been in education since 2006 and has worked as a teacher, a guidance counselor, and an assistant principal.