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E51-What is it that we are trying to accomplish? Disruptive Innovations

  Disruptive Innovations in High Schools NewTech High was one of 21 out of 136 proposals that was selected for the 2026 MASA conference later this month. This is the narrative shared with the presenting team as the lead-in to the 60-minute session on rapid disruptive innovation. Things for us to consider ahead of time. The audience may/will be resistant. Most MASA attendees (superintendents) may not want to hear this message — it challenges facets of the systems they lead, are comfortable with and have built careers inside. Grab the Opportunity! We are treating this as a single, high-leverage opportunity to inform this audience that the disruptive change is not just coming, but nearly complete. This is not a future hypothetical they can plan around at leisure. We may get other chances, but we also need to get people to “wake up” to the need for diffusing a new model…soon.  Implication for delivery. T he message needs to land with an audience predisposed to reject or deflect ...
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E50-Corey Mohn Podcast, CAPS Organization

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NewTech High Podcast August 21, 2026  Boy, two podcasts in a  week? Catching up as there is so much to talk about it and little time to do it.  Corey Mohn has been a colleague of mine through the CAPS organization for most of the last decade. He has a special ability to lead organizations towards growth. He has a unique ability through his natural listening skills, effusive energy and a great sense of humor to motivate and inspire people to change. If your high schools are moving towards pathways, or more relevance in your program, you should someday consider CAPS. There is a membership fee, but the value of this is definitely exceeding the cost. The podcast and a couple of graphics are worth the look!  Corey Mohn Podcast  (click on this link to view the podcast) Background Reading Material:  Clark County Nevada is wanting to be a Destination District with their 300,000 students.  Indiana is considering a new post-secondary model for HS  that look...
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E49-NewTech High Podcast, Jason Berg, Farmington

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NewTech High Podcast August 20, 2026 This morning, our podcast guest was Jason Berg, Superintendent at Farmington (MN). Farmington SD has been a leader in personal learning for nearly two decades. Jason has served various roles in Farmington during that time from AP to HS Principal to the Superintendent. This is actually his second stint at the district as it is where he started his teaching/coaching career in 1993.  Berg is definitely a live wire any time and easy to listen to. He has a calm intensity that shows through, as well as an easy ability to smile. He is fluid in almost any educational topic which clearly comes through in the interview. He has served in so many different roles along the way and comes from an educator family.  Jason Berg Podcast  This podcast covered math education reform, learner-centered practices, coaching philosophy, as well as the future of high schools. Core consensus: standards should be a floor, not a ceiling ; schools must shift from com...
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E48 -- You Wonder about High Schools: How About Colleges?

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NewTech High Blog August 17, 2026 I apologize for the gap in messaging. During this brief hiatus, we have had a few cancellations and seemingly a lot of golf getting in the way of my long-term focus to publish. That freedom shall pass as we are ramping up to start the 2026-2027 campaign again. That is exciting.  Next Podcasts: Dr. Jason Berg, Superintendent, Farmington, MN and Corey Mohn, National Director of the CAPS Organization.  Minnesota Governor's Race In Minnesota, we have so many things happening right now. We have a hot Governor's race now between two fine women, Amy Klobuchar and Lisa DeMuth. There is a lot of anticipation over their upcoming debates and platforms. Fortunately, they have both published them. Klobuchar. DeMuth . Klobuchar's priorities are laid out a bit more clearly, including education. I'm sure Lisa's will expand over the near future as she had a hot race this summer to get this far. I can see how you would rally around either candidate....
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