In this episode of Driving Education, Katie and Aubrey pull back the curtain on one of the most prestigious honors in education — the Milken Educator Award.

Often called the "Oscars of Teaching," the Milken is surrounded by secrecy, surprise, and speculation. But behind the mystery is something much deeper: exceptional educators doing extraordinary work every single day — without knowing who is watching.

This episode explores:

• Why the Milken Award is intentionally mysterious

• What the award truly recognizes (and what it doesn't)

• The unseen impact of excellent educators

• How recognition can elevate the profession

• Why great teaching is about the journey, not the spotlight

🎧This conversation is a reminder that excellence in education doesn't chase awards — it drives change, impact, and opportunity for students.

In this unforgettable episode of Driving Education, Katie sits down with Dr. Walter Gonsoulin — "Dr. G" — Superintendent of Jefferson County Schools, National Superintendent of the Year, and one of U.S. News & World Report's 25 Best Leaders in America.

Dr. G shares his extraordinary journey from a sixth-grade classroom in Louisiana to leading one of the largest school districts in Alabama — and onto the national stage. Along the way, he reveals a leadership philosophy rooted in humanity, trust, collaboration, and removing the "box" altogether.

Listeners will hear stories that define transformational leadership:

• How throwing a football eliminated discipline problems

• Why independence, belonging, and trust change school culture

• What it means to truly "see" students, teachers, and communities

• How collaboration across districts unlocked opportunity

• Why public education matters — and why public is the choice

From playground benches to national recognition, this episode is a masterclass in servant leadership, vision, and impact — and a reminder that education is, at its core, about people.

🎧 If you believe in the power of public schools and human-centered leadership, this episode is for you.

• From teaching sixth grade to leading a district the size of Rhode Island

• Why discipline problems disappeared when students were seen

• The power of collaboration across schools and communities

• Removing barriers and "no box" leadership

• Preparing students for real-world careers and opportunities

• Why public education matters now more than ever

Dr. Walter Gonsoulin

• Superintendent, Jefferson County Schools

• National Superintendent of the Year

• U.S. News & World Report Top 25 Leaders in America

Katie and Aubrey hit the road with former Alabama Teacher of the Year Jennifer Brown to visit Paul Bryant High School and see how Principal Hines has built a culture of trust, visibility, and growth. From walkthroughs to data tracking to student ownership, this episode is full of practical insight—and a little karaoke.

In this episode:

• Visiting Paul W. Bryant High School in Tuscaloosa City Schools with Jennifer Brown

• How Principal Hines builds trust and visibility

• What daily walkthroughs look like—and why they work

• Students tracking their ACT pathway data

• Metacognition and ownership in every classroom

• The "Praise–Probe–Push" model for effective feedback

• The culture of celebration and high expectations

• The importance of teacher self-efficacy

• Road trip stories, J&J Grocery, and a little karaoke

Featured Guest:
Jennifer Brown, 2016 Alabama Teacher of the Year and educational consultant with Bailey Education Group

Locations Mentioned:

• Paul Bryant High School

• J&J Grocery (the best burger in Alabama)

Resources & Ideas Discussed:

• ACT pathway proficiency levels

• Classroom walkthrough structures

• Clear learning targets and student reflection

• Attendance and school culture initiatives