Episode 358

full
Published on:

6th Feb 2025

Can you create a Disneyworld of Education? This Kentucky Superintendent tells us how.

Join CT as he discusses educational transformation with Dr. Buddy Berry, Superintendent of Eminence Independent Schools, and how his district embraces a “Disney World of Education” approach. Discover how Eminence creates magical learning experiences by prioritizing culture, engagement, and personalization. Dr. Berry shares how “Surprise and Delight” strategies, immersive classroom transformations, and a Disney-level commitment to excellence keep students excited to learn. From scenting the school to hiring educators with a passion for innovation, this conversation explores how to turn education into an unforgettable experience. Perfect for those interested in making learning as captivating as a theme park adventure.

Key Takeaways:

Creating the “Disney World of Education” – Eminence Independent Schools prioritize magical learning experiences, ensuring students are excited to return each day, just like visitors to a theme park.

"Surprise and Delight" Strategy – Educators use three levels of surprises, from fun classroom moments to full lesson-themed transformations, keeping learning engaging and memorable.

Everyone is Part of the Cast – From teachers to janitors, the entire school operates like a Disney team, ensuring a high-quality, immersive experience for students.

Personalized Learning – Innovative teaching methods like standards-based grading and customized learning plans help students succeed based on their individual needs.

Sensory Engagement Matters – Scenting the school with evergreen aromas fosters a mindset of possibility and creativity, contributing to a positive learning environment.

Hiring for Mindset, Not Just Skill – Educators are selected based on adaptability, passion for learning, and a deep love for teaching, ensuring they fit the school’s innovative culture.

Fixing What’s Broken – Eminence operates with a "consumer-friendly" mindset, actively improving systems to maintain a high level of service for students and families.

Post-COVID Engagement Challenges – By reinforcing discipline, expectations, and immersive experiences, the district successfully re-engaged students after pandemic disruptions.


Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

00:45 Disney of Education

03:14 Cast Members

04:44 Surprise and Delight

09:31 Three Levels

13:40 Polar Bears

16:49 Recreating Magic

21:11 Replicating Success

26:08 Leadership Journey

33:31 Career Advice


Connect with Dr. Jim: linkedin.com/in/drjimk

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Dr. Buddy Berry: linkedin.com/in/buddy-berry-8963baa4

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



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About the Podcast

Engaging Leadership
Uncovering stories and strategies behind successful educational leadership
Each week we sit down with inspiring leaders who are transforming education and creating positive outcomes for students across the country.

In their own words, these leaders share their daily challenges, breakthrough moments, and the practical approaches they use to build and support student achievement.

Whether you're a principal, superintendent, or aspiring educational leader, you'll find actionable insights you can use right away.

Want to stay connected with more stories from innovative education leaders? Visit engagingleadershipshow.com and subscribe to our weekly updates.

About your hosts

CheeTung Leong

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I'm committed to helping people live their best lives through work.

I'm one of the co-founders of EngageRocket, an HRTech SaaS startup and we are focused on helping organizations build empowered managers, engaged employees, and elite teams.

I'm a big nerd when it comes to economics and psychology and regularly use data and tech to help folks live their best lives.

I've been recognized by Prestige Magazine as one of the top 40 under 40 business leaders and have been featured in Forbes, Bloomberg, Business Insider, and Tech in Asia.

Jim Kanichirayil

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Your friendly neighborhood talent strategy nerd is the producer and co-host for The HR Impact Show. He's spent his career in sales and has been typically in startup b2b HRTech and TA-Tech organizations.

He's built high-performance sales teams throughout his career and is passionate about all things employee life cycle and especially employee retention and turnover.