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The Crisis in Education Podcast
Educators are the backbone of our nation, and education is its lifeblood. But because of a number of issues exacerbated by politics and the pandemic, it is progressively faltering. From teacher shortages and failing schools to growing mental health issues, there is an undeniable growing crisis in Education at the individual, classroom, and school level. Though painful, with the right approaches, crises can be leveraged as an opportunity for growth. Therefore, Dr. Paul "Paulie" Gavoni and Drew Carter are co-hosting the Crisis in Education Podcast, where Education meets Behavior Science, to interview educational leaders, behavior scientists, and experts around the world to dissect the root causes of crisis issues and explore potential opportunities for sustainable improvement across schools and districts. [Sponsored by the Professional Crisis Management Association - pcma.com]
The Crisis in Education Podcast
Turning Around a Failing School District with Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency
In this episode, Dr. Paul “Paulie” Gavoni sits down with Dr. Rick Surrency, Superintendent of Putnam County Schools in Florida, to explore how one of the lowest-performing districts in the state transformed into a model of success.
When Dr. Surrency took office in 2016, Putnam County Schools faced daunting challenges: a graduation rate under 55%, multiple failing schools, and a community that many considered on the decline. Fast forward to today, and the results speak volumes:
- Graduation rate increased to over 92%
- Every failing school eliminated
- $300+ million secured to rebuild aging campuses
- Recognition as Florida’s Superintendent of the Year (2023)
Dr. Surrency shares the leadership principles, strategies, and hard choices that fueled this turnaround, including how to:
- Align education with real-world opportunities through programs in aviation, advanced manufacturing, and beyond.
- Create systems that reinforce both academic achievement and vocational readiness.
- Rebuild trust and pride in a community once considered a “dying district.”
This conversation goes beyond statistics. It’s about values-driven leadership, equipping students with skills that match their passions, and building schools that serve as engines of hope for families and communities.
🎧 Tune in to hear how bold vision, relentless action, and a commitment to human behavior science can breathe life into a struggling school system.
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