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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Turning Around a Failing School District with Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency