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
25episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
#112 - Season 3 Closer
3w ago00:33:29Tap to summarizeSeason 3 comes to a close with a special behind-the-scenes episode of the Building Blocks Podcast. With no guest this time, Dr. Larry Berger and Producer Mac turn the microphones toward each other for an honest conversation about the moments listeners didn’t hear, the episodes that almost didn’t happen, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.It’s reflective, candid, and a fitting close to another season of conversations that continue to build connections across Pearland ISD.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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#111 - Principal Series: Some Fly, We Soar at Dawson High School with Erin Hamann
4w ago00:35:20Tap to summarizeOn this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, Dr. Larry Berger sits down with Erin Hamann, principal of Dawson High School. Their motto says it all: Some fly, we soar…and it’s all about #FAMILY.Principal Hamann shares the journey that led him to campus leadership and what continues to fuel his passion for serving students, staff, and the Dawson community. From the traditions that build a strong sense of belonging to the innovative programs driving student success, he offers a behind-the-scenes look at what makes Dawson a place where students don’t just get by, they thrive.The conversation also highlights the powerful partnerships with families and the Pearland community that help create a true culture of connection and support. Principal Hamann discusses the initiatives and instructional practices he’s most excited about, all centered around helping every student reach their full potential.If you want to hear what it looks like when a campus leads with purpose, a commitment to excellence, and heart, this episode is for you. At Dawson High School, it’s more than a motto, it’s a mindset. #FAMILYHave questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast
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#110 - 2026 Pearland ISD Valedictorians
May 1900:35:41Tap 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
May 1200:27:46Tap 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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