Praxis Journeys
Praxis Journeys explores the paths of today’s most influential leaders in education and the real-world strategies they use to drive change. Each episode features candid conversations on pressing topics like teacher recruitment, AI in the classroom, district leadership, building strong school cultures, and more. Whether you're an educator, administrator, or advocate, you'll walk away with actionable insights to inform your own journey and help students thrive.
Praxis Journeys
Rick Surrency on Building Systems for Lasting Impact in Rural Education
In this episode of Praxis Journeys, host Vinay Ganti sits down with Dr. Rick Surrency, Superintendent of Putnam County School District in Northeast Florida. Dr. Surrency shares his unique perspective as an elected superintendent, discussing how community engagement and long-term systems thinking have transformed his district. From innovative teacher retention strategies and employee wellness initiatives to dramatic improvements in graduation rates, Dr. Surrency reveals the “secret sauce” behind Putnam’s success.
Listeners will hear how rural districts can leverage partnerships, expand STEM opportunities, and connect curriculum to real-world careers—including pathways to the space industry. Whether you’re an education leader, policymaker, or advocate, this episode offers practical insights on sustaining change, building relevant programs, and preparing students for jobs that don’t even exist yet.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, innovation, and the power of looking beyond your district walls to create lasting impact.