Cook Center for Human Connection

New Episode Alert — The Superintendent Effect!

We recently sat down with Mr. David Law, Superintendent of Minnetonka Public Schools in Minnesota, and recent President of AASA, the national association leading over 13,000 superintendents across the U.S.

Mr. Law brings a one-of-a-kind perspective, from teaching math and coaching swimming, to earning a law degree, to leading one of Minnesota’s most innovative school districts.

In this episode, we cover:

* Minnetonka’s award-winning Chinese & Spanish dual language immersion programs
* How students in immersion programs are outperforming their English-only peers by 5th grade
* The district’s thoughtful approach to AI in education
* What teacher wellness really means (and why we’re not solving it)
* Preparing students for careers that don’t exist yet

This is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

Listen now

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2DZUSsqftYvQiVkTzDmBZd?si=5gPaCKQBToKFPVpdtQZrug
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-superintendent-effect/id1834026146
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6ss1INZQjYdsn5P6QHuB_slNNSaEQdnd&si=nGfOwA6RelnpRpBo

New Episode Alert — The Superintendent Effect, Episode 30!

We’re thrilled to feature Dr. Meredith Nadeau, Superintendent of School Administrative Unit #21 (SAU #21) in Hampton, New Hampshire!

Dr. Nadeau leads five districts along the beautiful New Hampshire seacoast, navigating six school boards, 23 school board members, and nearly 2,000 students with vision, heart, and a deep commitment to every child.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:
The science of reading and why it’s never been more critical
Students helping shape national AI ethics policy
A whole-school mental health model that’s truly embedded in culture
:helicopter: Extended Learning Opportunities like drone certifications, biomedical research, and student-built community programs

Plus — Dr. Nadeau’s advice for new superintendents: “Don’t lose the urgency, but develop the relationships.”

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2DZUSsqftYvQiVkTzDmBZd?si=5gPaCKQBToKFPVpdtQZrug
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-superintendent-effect/id1834026146
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6ss1INZQjYdsn5P6QHuB_slNNSaEQdnd&si=nGfOwA6RelnpRpBo

New Episode Alert — The Superintendent Effect, Episode 30!

We’re thrilled to feature Dr. Meredith Nadeau, Superintendent of School Administrative Unit #21 (SAU #21) in Hampton, New Hampshire!

Dr. Nadeau leads five districts along the beautiful New Hampshire seacoast, navigating six school boards, 23 school board members, and nearly 2,000 students with vision, heart, and a deep commitment to every child.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:
The science of reading and why it’s never been more critical
Students helping shape national AI ethics policy
A whole-school mental health model that’s truly embedded in culture
Extended Learning Opportunities like drone certifications, biomedical research, and student-built community programs

Plus — Dr. Nadeau’s advice for new superintendents: “Don’t lose the urgency, but develop the relationships.”

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2DZUSsqftYvQiVkTzDmBZd?si=5gPaCKQBToKFPVpdtQZrug
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-superintendent-effect/id1834026146
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6ss1INZQjYdsn5P6QHuB_slNNSaEQdnd&si=nGfOwA6RelnpRpBo

May is Mental Health Awareness Month — and parenting doesn’t come with a manual. From phone addiction and behavior challenges to anxiety, divorce, and everyday parenting struggles, getting trusted guidance matters.

Visit Ask a Therapist at ParentGuidance.org to hear real answers from Dr. Kevin Skinner and other licensed therapists helping families navigate the challenges of raising children today.

You’re not alone — support and practical tools are available. https://parentguidance.org/ask-a-therapist/

Dr. Melissa Stager from the Clinton Township School District in New Jersey joins us to talk about literacy goals, empowering teachers, mentorship, and why supporting student mental health matters now more than ever before.

From leading an “80 Percent in 3” literacy initiative to protecting on-site mental health services for students, Dr. Stager shares her insights on leadership and the future of public education in New Jersey.

Listen now on The Superintendent Effect.



Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2DZUSsqftYvQiVkTzDmBZd?si=5gPaCKQBToKFPVpdtQZrug
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-superintendent-effect/id1834026146
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6ss1INZQjYdsn5P6QHuB_slNNSaEQdnd&si=nGfOwA6RelnpRpBo

In the latest episode of The Superintendent Effect, Anne Brown sits down with Dr. Cory Steiner, Superintendent of Fargo Public Schools in North Dakota, serving over 11,000 students in one of the state’s most historic districts.

From his roots in a small rural district to stepping into leadership in a growing community, Cory brings a thoughtful and human approach to education.. one grounded in relationships, vulnerability, and a commitment to putting students first.

They explore how Fargo is building a stronger, more aligned future through community partnerships, student-centered leadership, and a powerful rethinking of what it means to be an “educator.”

Here are a few key leadership takeaways from their conversation:

Students at the Center: “We all work for them.” Cory is redefining district culture by placing students, and the adults who support them, at the heart of every decision.

Everyone Is an Educator: From custodians to superintendents, every adult plays a role in shaping a child’s experience. “There’s no such thing as ‘just’ anything in a school system.”

Connection Builds Credibility: Showing up in classrooms, attending events, and being present in the community creates trust before it’s ever needed.

Action Over Listening Alone: Listening matters, but acting on what you hear is what truly drives change and builds momentum.

Vulnerability as Strength: Cory shares a powerful personal story of accountability and growth, reminding us that authentic and transparent leadership builds deeper trust and stronger communities.

Listen to the full episode to hear Cory’s journey, his vision for aligning systems around students, and how districts of any size can create meaningful, lasting impact through connection and positivity.

Listen today!

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2DZUSsqftYvQiVkTzDmBZd?si=5gPaCKQBToKFPVpdtQZrug
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-superintendent-effect/id1834026146
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6ss1INZQjYdsn5P6QHuB_slNNSaEQdnd&si=nGfOwA6RelnpRpBo

May is , a reminder of something we believe year-round: mental health is the foundation of strong, thriving communities.

When people have the support, resources, and encouragement they need, they’re better equipped to show up for themselves and each other. When students feel safe, seen, and supported, they learn better, grow stronger, and become the leaders their communities need. When educators have that same support, they can give more of themselves to the work that matters most.

We’re proud to stand alongside the superintendents, educators, and leaders who share that commitment.

To everyone doing this work, thank you. It matters more than we can measure.

May is , a reminder of something we believe year-round: mental health is the foundation of strong, thriving communities.

When people have the support, resources, and encouragement they need, they're better equipped to show up for themselves and each other. When students feel safe, seen, and supported, they learn better, grow stronger, and become the leaders their communities need. When educators have that same support, they can give more of themselves to the work that matters most.

We're proud to stand alongside the superintendents, educators, and leaders who share that commitment.

To everyone doing this work, thank you. It matters more than we can measure.

In the newest episode of The Superintendent Effect, Anne Brown sits down with Dr. Nick Migliorino, Superintendent of Norman Public Schools in Oklahoma. Dr. Nick is a leader whose career has been shaped by curiosity, innovation, and a relentless commitment to what’s best for kids.

From teacher and coach to superintendent, Dr. Migliorino’s journey reflects a willingness to say “yes” to opportunity and then work tirelessly to make bold ideas a reality. His leadership philosophy is grounded in one belief: when communities come together around students, extraordinary things can happen.

In their conversation, Dr. Migliorino shares how Norman Public Schools is building for the future while staying connected to the needs of its families, educators, and community. A few standout takeaways from the episode:

Dream Beyond Your Wallet: Great leadership starts with vision. “If it’s already in your wallet, it’s not a dream.” Leaders must think bigger than current resources and then find the path forward.

Collaboration Creates Possibility: The success of Norman’s groundbreaking Aviation Academy came from partnerships across public schools, higher education, business, and government—all focused on what’s best for students.

Say Yes First: “The easiest word in the English language to pronounce is yes.” Openness to possibility can unlock opportunities that transform communities.

Shared Vision Matters: A clear mission keeps everyone aligned from the superintendent’s office to the classroom. When people move toward the same purpose, momentum builds.

Good Things Happen Here: Culture is intentional. Dr. Migliorino’s district-wide message reinforces positivity, connection, and the belief that meaningful work is happening every day.

This episode is a powerful look at leadership that dares to dream big, values partnership, and never loses sight of students.

Listen to the full conversation to hear Dr. Migliorino’s story, his approach to education, and the mindset that continues to shape one of Oklahoma’s best districts.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2DZUSsqftYvQiVkTzDmBZd?si=5gPaCKQBToKFPVpdtQZrug
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-superintendent-effect/id1834026146
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6ss1INZQjYdsn5P6QHuB_slNNSaEQdnd&si=nGfOwA6RelnpRpBo