In this episode of Education Influencers, Dr. Carla Sparks interviews Dr. Margarete Talbert-Irving, a distinguished graduate of the doctoral program in educational leadership at National Louis University. Dr. Talbert-Irving shares her impressive career trajectory across various leadership roles in Florida public school districts, including principal, executive area director, Chief Academic Officer, and Deputy Superintendent.

She discusses the importance of thought leadership, the impact of mentoring and coaching, and the significance of sustaining educational change. She also highlights her continued passion for teaching and her commitment to helping future educators succeed. The discussion delves into strategies for influencing teacher effectiveness, retaining talent, and fostering student achievement.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Education Influencers

00:37 Meet Dr. Margarete Talbert-Irving

01:37 Impact of Earning a Doctorate

03:26 Influencing Education Daily

05:29 Personal Impact and Servant Leadership

06:00 Supporting New Teachers and Alternative Certification

11:36 Mentoring and Executive Coaching

14:36 District Leadership Experiences

19:09 The Joy of Teaching and Adjunct Professorship

25:55 Advice for Aspiring Education Leaders

31:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Education Influencers, Dr. Carla Sparks welcomes Dr. Carla Foord, an assistant professor at National Lewis University. Dr. Foord shares her extensive experiences and diverse roles in education, including as a high school administrator, Director of Education for a nonprofit, and founder of a private childcare business.

They discuss the transformative impact of earning a doctorate, the significance of mentorship, and how educators can influence policy. Dr. Foord also highlights the Master's of Arts and Teaching program, which supports new teachers in obtaining certifications and developing essential skills. She emphasizes the importance of building relationships, staying organized, and viewing every educator as a leader.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

02:26 Opening Doors with a Doctorate

04:17 Influencing Education through MAT Program

05:58 Supporting New Teachers

10:42 Impactful Changes in Education

12:46 Transition to Assistant Professor

19:48 Influencing Education Policy

24:53 Advice for Aspiring Change Makers

27:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Education Influencers, Dr. Carla Sparks welcomes Dr. Lorilynn Bowie. Dr. Bowie discusses her multifaceted roles at National Louis University and beyond. As an outreach and enrollment specialist, adjunct professor, educational consultant, and advocate, she shares her post-doctorate experiences influencing the educational landscape since 2020.

She sheds light on her work with children with special academic needs, her recognition as an American Heart Hero, and her efforts to build effective relationships between families and schools. Dr. Bowie emphasizes the importance of trust, listening, and validation in her advocacy work and mentoring, and highlights the impactful power of educators believing in their expertise.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Education Influencers

00:26 Meet Dr. Lorilynn Bowie

02:18 Dr. Bowie's Journey Post-Doctorate

04:52 American Heart Hero and Advocacy

06:44 Influencing Education in Alachua County

08:52 Impactful Changes in Education

11:24 Encore Career at National Louis University

15:22 Educational Advocacy and Mentoring

28:48 Building Trust and Relationships

34:52 Final Thoughts and Advice for Educators