Welcome back to The Path Forward podcast with Dr. Rick Fernandez! In this episode, Dr. Fernandez is joined by David Ritchey, Superintendent of Lamesa ISD. David dives into how he plans to utilize innovation in order to increase community involvement in the Lamesa area, and offers unique ideas on how to achieve that.

Throughout this episode, Rick and David bounce ideas back and forth with each other on thinking outside of the box to engage more students, and help them build their own path. They explore different ways that students can succeed, stepping outside of the traditional college track. David explains how the future of the expectations of education are shifting and evolving, and the precautionary steps he’s taking to make sure his district can keep up with those shifts to maintain success with his students.

You won’t want to miss this inspiring episode!

Host: Dr. Rick Fernandez

Guest: David Ritchey (Superintendent of Lamesa ISD)

Time Stamps & Show Notes:

(00:00 - 1:25) Introduction

(1:26 - 1:57) Lamesa current standing

(1:58 - 4:01) CTE and where the needs are

(4:02 - 5:45) Possibilities for life as an adult in this economy

(5:46 - 6:25) Getting the community involved in CTE programs

(6:26 - 8:13) Finding your path

(8:14 - 9:09) Other schools in Lamesa

(9:10 - 10:04) Offerings/Listening to the kids

(10:05 - 12:53) New ideas for CTE programs

(12:54 - 13:47) Making the system self-sufficient

(13:48 - 14:44) Disconnect between school district and community

(14:45 - 17:49) Increasing sports with education

(17:50 - 19:23) Utilizing data for innovation in the school district

(19:24 - 20:46) Using coaching and game play as a tool for teaching

(20:47 - 21:36) Getting in the way of your own growth

(21:37 - 24:18) How to keep your administrators up to date

(24:19 - 27:42) Being a great leader

(27:43 - 29:34) The growth path to being a great leader

(29:35 - 30:49) The future of achievements for Lamesa ISD

(30:50 - 32:07) Conclusion