Podcast
Building Blocks
Hosted by Pearland Independent School District · EN
Pearland ISD’s Podcast that highlights people who are the Building Blocks of Pearland ISD. Your Proud Superintendent, Larry Berger hosts the show and gives listeners, parents, students and staff an inside look at who is Building Pearland Proud.
Guests will include students, staff, leadership and community members.
#BuildPearlandProud
23episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
#110 - 2026 Pearland ISD Valedictorians
2w ago00:35:41Tap to summarizeOn this special episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, Dr. Larry Berger celebrates excellence across Pearland ISD with the valedictorians from all three high schools.Representing Turner College and Career High School, Adalyn Hoang, Dawson High School, Sofia Budimlic, and Pearland High School, Madelyn Dinh join the conversation to reflect on their journeys to the top of their class. They share the challenges they’ve overcome, the lessons they’ve learned, and the people who supported them along the way. From study habits and time management to balancing academics with extracurriculars, these students offer insight into what it takes to succeed at the highest level. This episode is a celebration of dedication, resilience, and student success! Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with the Class of 2026’s top scholars.Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast
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#109 - Principal Series: Rogers Middle School with Ajunta Thomas
3w ago00:27:46Tap to summarizeOn this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, Dr. Larry Berger sits down with Ajunta Thomas, principal of Rogers Middle School a recently recognized as a “Texas School to Watch.”Principal Thomas shares her journey into campus leadership and the passion that drives her work each day. From building a strong school culture to creating meaningful opportunities for student growth, she offers an inside look at what makes Rogers a standout campus.The conversation highlights the programs, strategies, and traditions that are making a real impact on students, as well as the intentional partnerships with families and the Pearland community that help support success beyond the classroom. Principal Thomas also gives a glimpse into exciting new initiatives and instructional practices shaping the future at Rogers.Whether you’re a parent, educator, or community member, this episode showcases the leadership, innovation, and heart behind a campus that’s truly making a difference.Take a listen and discover what makes Rogers Middle School a school to watch.Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast
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#108 - National Board Certified Teachers
May 500:42:22Tap to summarizeOn this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, Dr. Larry Berger sits down with two exceptional educators from Turner College and Career High School, Chef Sean Dunn and Caren Wonders, who have recently earned the prestigious National Board Certified Teacher distinction.This conversation dives into what it truly means to pursue the “gold standard” in teaching. Chef Dunn and Caren Wonders share their personal journeys in Pearland ISD, reflect on the rigorous certification process, and open up about how it challenged them to think deeper, teach stronger, and focus more intentionally on student impact.Whether you’re an educator considering National Board Certification or simply passionate about what great teaching looks like, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and inspiration to take that next step.Pull up a chair...this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast
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#107 - SPECIAL REPORT: GRADUATION
Apr 3000:20:49Tap to summarizeGraduation is coming home to Pearland! In this special report episode of Building Blocks Podcast, Dr. Larry Berger sits down with Deputy Superintendent Mrs. Kelly Holt to break down everything families need to know about graduation.From parking and seating to what to bring, this quick guide covers the essentials, PLUS livestream details, field access, and who to contact before the big day. Everything you need for a smooth, memorable graduation…right here at home.Graduation Details: https://www.pearlandisd.org/parents/graduation-2026Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast
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#106 - Principal Series: Inside Massey Ranch Elementary with Melanie Grote
Apr 2800:26:21Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, host Dr. Larry Berger sits down with Melanie Grote, Principal of Massey Ranch Elementary, to talk about her journey into school leadership and the passion behind her work.Melanie shares the programs, strategies, and campus traditions that make Massey Ranch Elementary a place where students thrive, as well as how strong partnerships with families and the Pearland community enhance the learning experience. She also highlights exciting new initiatives and instructional practices shaping the future of her campus.Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, collaboration, and creating a school culture where every student can succeed.Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast
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#105 - Principal Series: Inside the PACE Center with Dr. Kimberly Darden
Apr 2100:30:18Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, host Dr. Larry Berger sits down with Dr. Kimberly Darden, Principal of the PACE Center, to discuss her journey into campus leadership and what makes her role so rewarding.Dr. Darden shares the programs, strategies, and traditions that support student growth and success, along with how her campus partners with families and the Pearland community to create meaningful learning experiences. She also highlights exciting new initiatives and what makes the PACE Center a unique and impactful place for students.Tune in for an engaging conversation about leadership, innovation, and a mindset of “taking no Ls” when it comes to doing what’s best for students.Officer Steven Brown's Podcast:#050 - Authenticity in Action: SRO - Steven Brownhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/2238101/episodes/16555826Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast
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#104 - Teach, Connect & Inspire with Leasia Teelucksingh
Apr 1400:25:39Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, host Dr. Larry Berger talks with Leasia Teelucksingh, Pearland ISD’s 2025 Elementary Teacher of the Year, about her journey into teaching and the passion that drives her work.Leasia shares the core beliefs and daily practices that support her students’ growth, along with how she creates a classroom where children feel safe, valued, and ready to learn. She also offers advice for fellow educators on finding joy and purpose in the profession.Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the impact of great teaching and the power of connection in the classroom.Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast
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#103 - Principal Series: Inside Challenger Elementary with Becky Morris
Apr 700:28:34Tap to summarizeOn this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, host Dr. Larry Berger talks with Becky Morris, principal of Challenger Elementary, about leadership, learning, and community.Mrs. Morris shares what inspired her journey into school leadership and what she finds most rewarding about leading her campus. She highlights the programs, traditions, and partnerships that support student growth, as well as the strong connections with families and the Pearland community that help students thrive. The conversation also explores new initiatives and instructional practices shaping the future of Challenger Elementary and the excitement ahead for the school year.Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast
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#102 - Principal Series: Learners Today, Legends Tomorrow with Amanda Gordon
Mar 3100:32:44Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, host Dr. Larry Berger welcomes Amanda "Scoreboard" Gordon, principal of Jamison Middle School, for a conversation centered on leadership during one of the most pivotal stages of a student’s journey.Mrs. Gordon discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of leading a middle school campus, where academic growth, social development, and student voice intersect daily. She shares how Jamison Middle School supports students as they navigate increasing independence, responsibility, and expectations, while still feeling connected and supported. The episode also highlights campus initiatives, staff collaboration, and the importance of strong relationships with families as students prepare for high school and beyond.Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast
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#101 - The Program Behind the Playbook: Realignment & Lessons from Two Head Coaches
Mar 2400:36:00Tap to summarizeOn this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, host Dr. Larry Berger is joined by two leaders shaping Friday night lights and far beyond, Mike Allison, Head Football Coach at Dawson High School, and BJ Gotte, Head Football Coach at Pearland High School.The conversation explores how UIL realignment reshapes competition and what stands out most in the current landscape. Both coaches reflect on what defines a strong athletic program, beyond wins and losses, and how a clear identity remains steady no matter who’s on the schedule.Listeners will also hear how service and community involvement are intentionally woven into each program, helping student-athletes grow as leaders and citizens. The episode closes with a powerful reflection on legacy and what these coaches hope former players will say mattered most long after the final whistle.Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast
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