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
#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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#100 - Behind the Sidelines: Student Athletic Trainers in Action
Mar 1700:34:05Tap to summarizeOn this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, host Dr. Larry Berger sits down with three remarkable seniors from Dawson High School, Myla Jabbar, Catherine Roth, and Tatum Langley, to highlight the vital role student athletic trainers play in school athletics.The students share what inspired them to become athletic trainers and what surprised them most once they stepped into the role. They give listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the long days that stretch far beyond the sidelines...from practices and game nights to preparation, prevention, and care. The conversation also explores how being trusted with athlete safety has shaped their sense of responsibility, teamwork, and leadership.As part of National Athletic Trainer Month, the episode closes with reflections on how this experience has influenced their future goals and a heartfelt thank-you to the mentors and professionals who guided them along the way.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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#099 - Principal Series: Leading Through Relationships with Ryan Peterson
Mar 1000:33:57Tap to summarizeOn this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, host Dr. Larry Berger sits down with Ryan Peterson, principal of Shadycrest Elementary.Principal Peterson shares his path to school leadership and what he values most about serving students and staff. He highlights the programs, practices, and campus culture that support student growth, as well as the importance of strong partnerships with families and the Pearland community. The conversation also explores new initiatives and ideas taking shape at Shadycrest Elementary and the vision guiding the campus forward.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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#098 - Leading the Pride: Inside the Pearland High School Band
Mar 300:42:17Tap to summarizeOn this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, host Dr. Larry Berger is joined by Tom Bell, Pearland ISD Director of Fine Arts, and Ryan Demkovich, Pearland High School Band Director, for a behind-the-scenes look at the Pride of Pearland.The discussion goes beyond marching band to explore the discipline, leadership, and musicianship that shape students on and off the field. They reflect on the journey to a national stage, including an invitation to perform in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade during its 100th anniversary!Fundraiser Information: https://www.pearlandband.org/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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#097 - Principal Series: Building Success at Sablatura Middle School with Verna Tipton
Feb 2400:21:16Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Building Blocks, host Dr. Larry Berger talks with Sablatura Middle School Principal Verna Tipton about her journey into leadership, the programs and partnerships that support student success, and the exciting initiatives taking shape on her campus. It’s an inside look at the heart of a middle school built on growth, community, and innovation. 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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#096 - Stepping Into the Superintendent’s Role
Feb 1700:18:16Tap to summarizeBefore heading off to lead the district, Superintendent of the Day Adele Campbell made her first stop on the Building Blocks Podcast.Host Dr. Larry Berger sits down with Adele to discuss leadership, perspective, and her excitement for the day ahead. It’s a great conversation offering a fresh look at what it means to step into district leadership even for just one impactful day.Don’t miss this special episode of Building Blocks.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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#095 - Behind the Curtain with Gretchen Meyer
Feb 1000:35:42Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Building Blocks, Gretchen Meyer, Pearland ISD’s 2025 Secondary Teacher of the Year and the newly appointed Theatre Teacher at Pearland High School joins Dr. Berger at the table. Gretchen introduces herself to listeners and reflects on what it has meant to step into a new role at the high school level after earning one of the district’s highest honors.The conversation explores her transition into the Pearland High School drama department, the excitement and challenges that come with leading a new program, and the unforgettable moment the curtain rose on the school’s first production of Little Women: The Musical. This episode highlights the impact of inspired teaching and the transformative power of the arts.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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#094 - Principal Series: Leaving Prints Behind at Alexander Middle School with Andrea Clayton
Feb 300:25:02Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Building Blocks, host Dr. Larry Berger visits with Andrea Clayton, Principal of A-Rated Alexander Middle School, home of the Tigers, to talk about what it takes to build a thriving campus culture.Principal Clayton reflects on her path to the principalship and the moments that make leading Alexander Middle School especially meaningful. Listeners will hear about new initiatives and instructional practices taking shape this year, along with what sets Alexander Middle School apart and keeps Tiger pride strong.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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#093 – Principal Series: Pride, Honor, Success at Pearland High School with Adrian Washburn
Jan 2700:31:13Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Building Blocks, host Dr. Larry Berger sits down with Adrian Washburn, principal of Pearland High School, for an inside look at what it means to lead one of the district’s first schools and carrying on a proud tradition of excellence. The conversation highlights the programs, strategies, and traditions that make Pearland High School a place where students thrive, as well as the powerful partnerships with families and the Pearland community that strengthen the learning experience.It’s an engaging discussion on leadership, collaboration, and the work happening every day to support student success.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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