Autonome Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/autonome Introducing Autonome – a pioneering program that seamlessly integrates Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) with mindfulness through a distinctive coaching approach. Through that interconnection and our unique use of coaching protocols, Autonome expertly guides students towards reaching their potential and desired future. Empower personal development with Autonome! © 2026 Fran Kenton bb13cf18-5eee-5620-8c9b-1bf923d58799 yes en Wed, 06 May 2026 08:00:17 -0400 Wed, 06 May 2026 08:01:40 -0400 https://img.transistorcdn.com/hdfo3UkulhfT_RUifT85QesL5eiQiOhSRrXWwxWpz2k/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS8wMzBl/YTQ4NzQyYmUzYWIy/MDM2ODk4YmQ5N2Yz/NmU1Mi5wbmc.jpg Autonome episodic Fran Kenton Introducing Autonome – a pioneering program that seamlessly integrates Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) with mindfulness through a distinctive coaching approach. Through that interconnection and our unique use of coaching protocols, Autonome expertly guides students towards reaching their potential and desired future. Empower personal development with Autonome! Introducing Autonome – a pioneering program that seamlessly integrates Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) with mindfulness through a distinctive coaching approach. Matthew Millstein No No From Crisis to Cohesion: Building a System That Truly Supports Student Mental Health with Matthew Kaemmerer 9 9 From Crisis to Cohesion: Building a System That Truly Supports Student Mental Health with Matthew Kaemmerer full b59f1581-cac6-4964-ac5e-91c12e211e5e https://share.transistor.fm/s/fc37eba6
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton sits down with Matthew Kaemmerer, Director of Pupil Services at Oshkosh Area School District. Serving nearly 10,000 students, Matthew shares how his district transformed its approach to student mental health by moving from reactive crisis response to a proactive, integrated system that supports both students and educators.


Drawing from his background in psychology and education, Matthew reflects on the early challenges he encountered, including alarming mental health trends and student suicide rates. Instead of adding another initiative, he led the development of Rise Up, a comprehensive framework that combines education, early identification, and direct access to mental health services.


This conversation highlights what it takes to create sustainable, system-wide change, how to build strong community partnerships, and why consistency and shared language across schools are critical to success.



Key Moments


04:46 Returning to Oshkosh as a psychologist


08:56 Implementing mental health programs


12:17 Signs of Suicide curriculum overview


14:21 Calibrating programs across schools


17:32 Rise Up program overview


22:10 Evolving focus on emotional learning


24:35 Addressing racial achievement gaps


Why You’ll Love This Episode


If you are thinking about how to move beyond fragmented initiatives and build systems that actually work, this episode delivers. Matthew shares a clear roadmap for creating a cohesive mental health framework that is practical, scalable, and deeply impactful.


You will gain insights into how to align staff, leverage community partnerships, and create structures that support every student, not just those in crisis. It is a powerful example of what is possible when a district commits to long-term, intentional change.



Connect with Matthew Kaemmerer | Director of Pupil Services at Oshkosh Area School District

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-kaemmerer-0b2772300
Website: https://www.oshkosh.k12.wi.us/ 


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/



About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]>
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton sits down with Matthew Kaemmerer, Director of Pupil Services at Oshkosh Area School District. Serving nearly 10,000 students, Matthew shares how his district transformed its approach to student mental health by moving from reactive crisis response to a proactive, integrated system that supports both students and educators.


Drawing from his background in psychology and education, Matthew reflects on the early challenges he encountered, including alarming mental health trends and student suicide rates. Instead of adding another initiative, he led the development of Rise Up, a comprehensive framework that combines education, early identification, and direct access to mental health services.


This conversation highlights what it takes to create sustainable, system-wide change, how to build strong community partnerships, and why consistency and shared language across schools are critical to success.



Key Moments


04:46 Returning to Oshkosh as a psychologist


08:56 Implementing mental health programs


12:17 Signs of Suicide curriculum overview


14:21 Calibrating programs across schools


17:32 Rise Up program overview


22:10 Evolving focus on emotional learning


24:35 Addressing racial achievement gaps


Why You’ll Love This Episode


If you are thinking about how to move beyond fragmented initiatives and build systems that actually work, this episode delivers. Matthew shares a clear roadmap for creating a cohesive mental health framework that is practical, scalable, and deeply impactful.


You will gain insights into how to align staff, leverage community partnerships, and create structures that support every student, not just those in crisis. It is a powerful example of what is possible when a district commits to long-term, intentional change.



Connect with Matthew Kaemmerer | Director of Pupil Services at Oshkosh Area School District

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-kaemmerer-0b2772300
Website: https://www.oshkosh.k12.wi.us/ 


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/



About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]> Wed, 06 May 2026 08:00:00 -0400 Fran Kenton Fran Kenton 1592
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton sits down with Matthew Kaemmerer, Director of Pupil Services at Oshkosh Area School District. Serving nearly 10,000 students, Matthew shares how his district transformed its approach to student mental health by moving from reactive crisis response to a proactive, integrated system that supports both students and educators.


Drawing from his background in psychology and education, Matthew reflects on the early challenges he encountered, including alarming mental health trends and student suicide rates. Instead of adding another initiative, he led the development of Rise Up, a comprehensive framework that combines education, early identification, and direct access to mental health services.


This conversation highlights what it takes to create sustainable, system-wide change, how to build strong community partnerships, and why consistency and shared language across schools are critical to success.



Key Moments


04:46 Returning to Oshkosh as a psychologist


08:56 Implementing mental health programs


12:17 Signs of Suicide curriculum overview


14:21 Calibrating programs across schools


17:32 Rise Up program overview


22:10 Evolving focus on emotional learning


24:35 Addressing racial achievement gaps


Why You’ll Love This Episode


If you are thinking about how to move beyond fragmented initiatives and build systems that actually work, this episode delivers. Matthew shares a clear roadmap for creating a cohesive mental health framework that is practical, scalable, and deeply impactful.


You will gain insights into how to align staff, leverage community partnerships, and create structures that support every student, not just those in crisis. It is a powerful example of what is possible when a district commits to long-term, intentional change.



Connect with Matthew Kaemmerer | Director of Pupil Services at Oshkosh Area School District

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-kaemmerer-0b2772300
Website: https://www.oshkosh.k12.wi.us/ 


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/



About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]> No Designing Belonging and Purpose in Education with Dr. Alison Hanks-Sloan 7 7 Designing Belonging and Purpose in Education with Dr. Alison Hanks-Sloan full 9ca90c49-7535-4bcd-add4-137d08257945 https://share.transistor.fm/s/35b3ea89
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton sits down with Dr. Alison Hanks-Sloan, Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Salinas Union High School District in California. Alison brings a powerful global perspective shaped by her early work with the Peace Corps in Ethiopia and her leadership in founding the International High School at Largo, a school designed to serve multilingual learners from over 100 countries.


Together, they explore what it truly takes to build systems where students feel seen, connected, and prepared not just for academic success, but for life beyond school. From disrupting inequitable classroom norms abroad to leading districtwide innovation, Alison shares how her experiences shaped a deep belief that belonging and purpose must sit at the center of education.


The conversation dives into how districts can move beyond traditional models by designing learning experiences that are relevant, student-centered, and grounded in real-world application. Alison also shares insights into Salinas USD’s Portrait of a Graduate work and how it is reshaping teaching, learning, and student voice across the district. 


Key Moments


03:25 Starting a career in ESL teaching


07:06 Building a school for English learners


10:32 Supporting immigrant students through challenges


13:11 Career journey and leadership growth


16:23 Focusing on six key skills


21:30 Supporting schools with specialized coaching


23:40 Creating equitable student pathways


28:18 Project-based learning in schools


29:37 Reflecting on education and civic growth


Why You’ll Love This Episode


This episode offers a compelling look at how education systems can be intentionally designed to center belonging, relevance, and opportunity for every student. Alison shares both visionary ideas and practical strategies for shifting instruction, empowering student voice, and aligning systems to real-world outcomes.


You will also gain insight into how global experiences can shape local leadership, and how initiatives like Portrait of a Graduate can help districts move beyond compliance-driven models toward meaningful, student-centered learning.

Connect with Dr. Alison Hanks-Sloan | Director Of Curriculum & Instruction, Salinas Union High School District


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-hanks-sloan-7119979
Website: https://www.salinasuhsd.org/ 

Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/

About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]>
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton sits down with Dr. Alison Hanks-Sloan, Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Salinas Union High School District in California. Alison brings a powerful global perspective shaped by her early work with the Peace Corps in Ethiopia and her leadership in founding the International High School at Largo, a school designed to serve multilingual learners from over 100 countries.


Together, they explore what it truly takes to build systems where students feel seen, connected, and prepared not just for academic success, but for life beyond school. From disrupting inequitable classroom norms abroad to leading districtwide innovation, Alison shares how her experiences shaped a deep belief that belonging and purpose must sit at the center of education.


The conversation dives into how districts can move beyond traditional models by designing learning experiences that are relevant, student-centered, and grounded in real-world application. Alison also shares insights into Salinas USD’s Portrait of a Graduate work and how it is reshaping teaching, learning, and student voice across the district. 


Key Moments


03:25 Starting a career in ESL teaching


07:06 Building a school for English learners


10:32 Supporting immigrant students through challenges


13:11 Career journey and leadership growth


16:23 Focusing on six key skills


21:30 Supporting schools with specialized coaching


23:40 Creating equitable student pathways


28:18 Project-based learning in schools


29:37 Reflecting on education and civic growth


Why You’ll Love This Episode


This episode offers a compelling look at how education systems can be intentionally designed to center belonging, relevance, and opportunity for every student. Alison shares both visionary ideas and practical strategies for shifting instruction, empowering student voice, and aligning systems to real-world outcomes.


You will also gain insight into how global experiences can shape local leadership, and how initiatives like Portrait of a Graduate can help districts move beyond compliance-driven models toward meaningful, student-centered learning.

Connect with Dr. Alison Hanks-Sloan | Director Of Curriculum & Instruction, Salinas Union High School District


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-hanks-sloan-7119979
Website: https://www.salinasuhsd.org/ 

Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/

About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]> Wed, 01 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0400 Fran Kenton Fran Kenton 2016
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton sits down with Dr. Alison Hanks-Sloan, Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Salinas Union High School District in California. Alison brings a powerful global perspective shaped by her early work with the Peace Corps in Ethiopia and her leadership in founding the International High School at Largo, a school designed to serve multilingual learners from over 100 countries.


Together, they explore what it truly takes to build systems where students feel seen, connected, and prepared not just for academic success, but for life beyond school. From disrupting inequitable classroom norms abroad to leading districtwide innovation, Alison shares how her experiences shaped a deep belief that belonging and purpose must sit at the center of education.


The conversation dives into how districts can move beyond traditional models by designing learning experiences that are relevant, student-centered, and grounded in real-world application. Alison also shares insights into Salinas USD’s Portrait of a Graduate work and how it is reshaping teaching, learning, and student voice across the district. 


Key Moments


03:25 Starting a career in ESL teaching


07:06 Building a school for English learners


10:32 Supporting immigrant students through challenges


13:11 Career journey and leadership growth


16:23 Focusing on six key skills


21:30 Supporting schools with specialized coaching


23:40 Creating equitable student pathways


28:18 Project-based learning in schools


29:37 Reflecting on education and civic growth


Why You’ll Love This Episode


This episode offers a compelling look at how education systems can be intentionally designed to center belonging, relevance, and opportunity for every student. Alison shares both visionary ideas and practical strategies for shifting instruction, empowering student voice, and aligning systems to real-world outcomes.


You will also gain insight into how global experiences can shape local leadership, and how initiatives like Portrait of a Graduate can help districts move beyond compliance-driven models toward meaningful, student-centered learning.

Connect with Dr. Alison Hanks-Sloan | Director Of Curriculum & Instruction, Salinas Union High School District


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-hanks-sloan-7119979
Website: https://www.salinasuhsd.org/ 

Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/

About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]> No From Voice to Impact: Building Student-Centered Systems with Amy Graeber 8 8 From Voice to Impact: Building Student-Centered Systems with Amy Graeber full cb7e7d93-4e40-4bfa-9a5b-8569763623c2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e810efc9
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton speaks with Amy Graeber, Chief Instructional Officer at Uvalde CISD in Texas. With over 18 years in education and a deeply personal journey shaped by adversity, Amy brings a powerful perspective on what it truly means to serve students who are often overlooked or underestimated.


Amy shares how her lived experiences fuel her leadership approach, one centered on advocacy, opportunity, and ensuring every student has not just a seat at the table, but a voice that is truly heard. The conversation explores how Uvalde is shifting from reactive responses to proactive, system-wide frameworks that support both student well-being and teacher capacity.


Together, they unpack what it takes to rebuild trust in a community navigating trauma, how to create consistent, scalable systems, and why focusing on student voice is the foundation for meaningful, lasting change. 

Key Moments


04:21 Rethinking education for at-risk youth


08:07 Improving school systems together


10:40 Supporting early childhood needs


15:43 Middle school to high school transition


20:17 Teaching transferable and employability skills


22:03 Revamping career education programs


25:09 Focusing on student opportunities


Why You’ll Love This Episode


This episode is a powerful look at what it takes to lead in complex, high-need environments while staying grounded in what matters most, students. Amy offers a practical and honest perspective on building systems that are both human-centered and sustainable, especially in communities navigating trauma and change.


You will walk away with insights on how to elevate student voice, create consistency across systems, and design learning environments that truly prepare students for life beyond school.

Connect with Amy Graeber | Chief Instructional Officer,  Uvalde CISD


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-graeber-49a76222a
Website: https://www.ucisd.net/ 

Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/

About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.


]]>
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton speaks with Amy Graeber, Chief Instructional Officer at Uvalde CISD in Texas. With over 18 years in education and a deeply personal journey shaped by adversity, Amy brings a powerful perspective on what it truly means to serve students who are often overlooked or underestimated.


Amy shares how her lived experiences fuel her leadership approach, one centered on advocacy, opportunity, and ensuring every student has not just a seat at the table, but a voice that is truly heard. The conversation explores how Uvalde is shifting from reactive responses to proactive, system-wide frameworks that support both student well-being and teacher capacity.


Together, they unpack what it takes to rebuild trust in a community navigating trauma, how to create consistent, scalable systems, and why focusing on student voice is the foundation for meaningful, lasting change. 

Key Moments


04:21 Rethinking education for at-risk youth


08:07 Improving school systems together


10:40 Supporting early childhood needs


15:43 Middle school to high school transition


20:17 Teaching transferable and employability skills


22:03 Revamping career education programs


25:09 Focusing on student opportunities


Why You’ll Love This Episode


This episode is a powerful look at what it takes to lead in complex, high-need environments while staying grounded in what matters most, students. Amy offers a practical and honest perspective on building systems that are both human-centered and sustainable, especially in communities navigating trauma and change.


You will walk away with insights on how to elevate student voice, create consistency across systems, and design learning environments that truly prepare students for life beyond school.

Connect with Amy Graeber | Chief Instructional Officer,  Uvalde CISD


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-graeber-49a76222a
Website: https://www.ucisd.net/ 

Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/

About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.


]]> Wed, 01 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0400 Fran Kenton Fran Kenton 1690
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton speaks with Amy Graeber, Chief Instructional Officer at Uvalde CISD in Texas. With over 18 years in education and a deeply personal journey shaped by adversity, Amy brings a powerful perspective on what it truly means to serve students who are often overlooked or underestimated.


Amy shares how her lived experiences fuel her leadership approach, one centered on advocacy, opportunity, and ensuring every student has not just a seat at the table, but a voice that is truly heard. The conversation explores how Uvalde is shifting from reactive responses to proactive, system-wide frameworks that support both student well-being and teacher capacity.


Together, they unpack what it takes to rebuild trust in a community navigating trauma, how to create consistent, scalable systems, and why focusing on student voice is the foundation for meaningful, lasting change. 

Key Moments


04:21 Rethinking education for at-risk youth


08:07 Improving school systems together


10:40 Supporting early childhood needs


15:43 Middle school to high school transition


20:17 Teaching transferable and employability skills


22:03 Revamping career education programs


25:09 Focusing on student opportunities


Why You’ll Love This Episode


This episode is a powerful look at what it takes to lead in complex, high-need environments while staying grounded in what matters most, students. Amy offers a practical and honest perspective on building systems that are both human-centered and sustainable, especially in communities navigating trauma and change.


You will walk away with insights on how to elevate student voice, create consistency across systems, and design learning environments that truly prepare students for life beyond school.

Connect with Amy Graeber | Chief Instructional Officer,  Uvalde CISD


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-graeber-49a76222a
Website: https://www.ucisd.net/ 

Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/

About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.


]]> No Inclusive Systems, Leadership, and Writing a Great Story with Rusty Gordon 6 6 Inclusive Systems, Leadership, and Writing a Great Story with Rusty Gordon full 5b789172-7411-4c55-a150-af6cd2952341 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d6676d9a
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton, Founder and Creator of Autonome, sits down with Rusty Gordon, Director of Pupil Services at Marysville Joint Unified School District in California. Rusty leads special education, pupil welfare, and student support systems from preschool through adult transition programs, focusing on building inclusive, equitable environments that serve both students and educators.


Fran and Rusty explore how personal experiences, mentorship, and a deep commitment to student connection shaped Rusty’s leadership philosophy. From childhood memories of a friend with Down syndrome to decades of classroom and administrative leadership, Rusty shares how those experiences shaped his belief that every student deserves to be known, valued, and supported through strength-based systems.


The conversation highlights how districts can move beyond compliance by focusing on student strengths, developing common language and systems across campuses, and preparing educators to support inclusion effectively. Rusty also reflects on the importance of mentorship, professional trust, and leadership development in sustaining strong school systems.


Key Moments


05:32 "Building Connections with Students"


08:24 "Teaching Math: Tools vs. Basics"


10:45 "Critical Thinking and Student Goals"


14:10 "Building Common Vocabulary District-Wide"


16:08 "Overcoming School Transition Confusion"


19:29 "Finding the Sweet Center"


23:32 Inclusive Early Education Advocacy


28:36 Mental Health Support Challenges


30:48 Supporting Student Transitions Effectively


34:22 "Remote Work Challenges in Education"


39:17 Collaborative Negotiation Process


41:49 Ask, Think, Gather Right Information


45:02 "Student Support and Community Initiatives"


49:14 "Live a Great Story"


50:35 "What Story Are We Writing?"

Why You’ll Love This Episode


This episode provides a thoughtful look at how inclusion and student-centered systems develop over time. Rusty shares practical insights on aligning districtwide practices, building shared vocabulary among educators, and supporting teachers through collaboration and mentorship.


You will also hear a powerful reminder that education is both a science and an art. Rusty’s reflections on leadership, mentorship, and everyday classroom moments highlight how meaningful connections can shape both student outcomes and educator growth. His philosophy of “writing a great story” each day offers an inspiring lens for educators committed to making a difference.


Connect with Rusty Gordon | Director of Pupil Services at Marysville Joint Unified School District

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rusty-gordon-157a63370
Website: https://www.mjusd.com/# 


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/




About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]>
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton, Founder and Creator of Autonome, sits down with Rusty Gordon, Director of Pupil Services at Marysville Joint Unified School District in California. Rusty leads special education, pupil welfare, and student support systems from preschool through adult transition programs, focusing on building inclusive, equitable environments that serve both students and educators.


Fran and Rusty explore how personal experiences, mentorship, and a deep commitment to student connection shaped Rusty’s leadership philosophy. From childhood memories of a friend with Down syndrome to decades of classroom and administrative leadership, Rusty shares how those experiences shaped his belief that every student deserves to be known, valued, and supported through strength-based systems.


The conversation highlights how districts can move beyond compliance by focusing on student strengths, developing common language and systems across campuses, and preparing educators to support inclusion effectively. Rusty also reflects on the importance of mentorship, professional trust, and leadership development in sustaining strong school systems.


Key Moments


05:32 "Building Connections with Students"


08:24 "Teaching Math: Tools vs. Basics"


10:45 "Critical Thinking and Student Goals"


14:10 "Building Common Vocabulary District-Wide"


16:08 "Overcoming School Transition Confusion"


19:29 "Finding the Sweet Center"


23:32 Inclusive Early Education Advocacy


28:36 Mental Health Support Challenges


30:48 Supporting Student Transitions Effectively


34:22 "Remote Work Challenges in Education"


39:17 Collaborative Negotiation Process


41:49 Ask, Think, Gather Right Information


45:02 "Student Support and Community Initiatives"


49:14 "Live a Great Story"


50:35 "What Story Are We Writing?"

Why You’ll Love This Episode


This episode provides a thoughtful look at how inclusion and student-centered systems develop over time. Rusty shares practical insights on aligning districtwide practices, building shared vocabulary among educators, and supporting teachers through collaboration and mentorship.


You will also hear a powerful reminder that education is both a science and an art. Rusty’s reflections on leadership, mentorship, and everyday classroom moments highlight how meaningful connections can shape both student outcomes and educator growth. His philosophy of “writing a great story” each day offers an inspiring lens for educators committed to making a difference.


Connect with Rusty Gordon | Director of Pupil Services at Marysville Joint Unified School District

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rusty-gordon-157a63370
Website: https://www.mjusd.com/# 


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/




About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0400 Fran Kenton Fran Kenton 3393
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton, Founder and Creator of Autonome, sits down with Rusty Gordon, Director of Pupil Services at Marysville Joint Unified School District in California. Rusty leads special education, pupil welfare, and student support systems from preschool through adult transition programs, focusing on building inclusive, equitable environments that serve both students and educators.


Fran and Rusty explore how personal experiences, mentorship, and a deep commitment to student connection shaped Rusty’s leadership philosophy. From childhood memories of a friend with Down syndrome to decades of classroom and administrative leadership, Rusty shares how those experiences shaped his belief that every student deserves to be known, valued, and supported through strength-based systems.


The conversation highlights how districts can move beyond compliance by focusing on student strengths, developing common language and systems across campuses, and preparing educators to support inclusion effectively. Rusty also reflects on the importance of mentorship, professional trust, and leadership development in sustaining strong school systems.


Key Moments


05:32 "Building Connections with Students"


08:24 "Teaching Math: Tools vs. Basics"


10:45 "Critical Thinking and Student Goals"


14:10 "Building Common Vocabulary District-Wide"


16:08 "Overcoming School Transition Confusion"


19:29 "Finding the Sweet Center"


23:32 Inclusive Early Education Advocacy


28:36 Mental Health Support Challenges


30:48 Supporting Student Transitions Effectively


34:22 "Remote Work Challenges in Education"


39:17 Collaborative Negotiation Process


41:49 Ask, Think, Gather Right Information


45:02 "Student Support and Community Initiatives"


49:14 "Live a Great Story"


50:35 "What Story Are We Writing?"

Why You’ll Love This Episode


This episode provides a thoughtful look at how inclusion and student-centered systems develop over time. Rusty shares practical insights on aligning districtwide practices, building shared vocabulary among educators, and supporting teachers through collaboration and mentorship.


You will also hear a powerful reminder that education is both a science and an art. Rusty’s reflections on leadership, mentorship, and everyday classroom moments highlight how meaningful connections can shape both student outcomes and educator growth. His philosophy of “writing a great story” each day offers an inspiring lens for educators committed to making a difference.


Connect with Rusty Gordon | Director of Pupil Services at Marysville Joint Unified School District

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rusty-gordon-157a63370
Website: https://www.mjusd.com/# 


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/




About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]> No From Compliance to Impact in Special Education with Nicole Tyo 5 5 From Compliance to Impact in Special Education with Nicole Tyo full 06bbcea3-a759-4312-bdd2-f2c89ccf9d6f https://share.transistor.fm/s/f20c77d1
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton, Founder and Creator of Autonome, sits down with Nicole Tyo, Director of Special Education at South Western City Schools in Ohio. Nicole oversees services for students ages 3 to 22, leading comprehensive systems that integrate IDEA compliance, inclusive practices, mental health supports, and proactive wellbeing.


Fran and Nicole explore what it truly takes to move special education from compliance-driven systems to impact-driven leadership. Nicole shares how her mother’s work in an ED classroom first inspired her career, and how her own experience being identified as dyslexic shaped her belief that students must be both supported and pushed toward their potential. Throughout the conversation, Nicole highlights the importance of social-emotional learning, transition planning, and consistent adult mindset as essential drivers of student success.


Whether you lead special education, student services, or a full district, this conversation provides actionable ideas for building environments where students are seen, heard, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential.


Key Moments


05:55 "Embracing Challenges and Growth"

06:38 Why students need to be supported and pushed

08:10 Launching multisensory literacy initiatives districtwide


09:28 Building Employability Through Targeted Programs


11:15 Handling Frustrated Customers Poorly

15:02 Tier 1 PBIS and universal SEL programming


16:46 Mindset Communication Transforms Student Behavior

18:17 "Challenges of a Large District"

23:00 Inclusive Education and Social Skills


Why You’ll Love This Episode


This episode offers a thoughtful systems-level look at how special education can evolve beyond compliance into meaningful student impact. Nicole shares practical strategies for embedding social-emotional learning into transition programming, expanding mental health supports through community partnerships, and strengthening universal Tier 1 systems.


You will also hear a powerful leadership lesson about mindset. Nicole emphasizes that behavior is communication, and that adults must regulate themselves first in order to help students regulate. Her practical de-escalation strategies and districtwide partnership models provide clear examples of how to create consistent, student-centered systems across a large organization.


Connect with Nicole Tyo | Director of Special Education, South Western City Schools

Website: https://www.swcsd.us/Default.aspx 


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/



About Autonome

Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]>
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton, Founder and Creator of Autonome, sits down with Nicole Tyo, Director of Special Education at South Western City Schools in Ohio. Nicole oversees services for students ages 3 to 22, leading comprehensive systems that integrate IDEA compliance, inclusive practices, mental health supports, and proactive wellbeing.


Fran and Nicole explore what it truly takes to move special education from compliance-driven systems to impact-driven leadership. Nicole shares how her mother’s work in an ED classroom first inspired her career, and how her own experience being identified as dyslexic shaped her belief that students must be both supported and pushed toward their potential. Throughout the conversation, Nicole highlights the importance of social-emotional learning, transition planning, and consistent adult mindset as essential drivers of student success.


Whether you lead special education, student services, or a full district, this conversation provides actionable ideas for building environments where students are seen, heard, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential.


Key Moments


05:55 "Embracing Challenges and Growth"

06:38 Why students need to be supported and pushed

08:10 Launching multisensory literacy initiatives districtwide


09:28 Building Employability Through Targeted Programs


11:15 Handling Frustrated Customers Poorly

15:02 Tier 1 PBIS and universal SEL programming


16:46 Mindset Communication Transforms Student Behavior

18:17 "Challenges of a Large District"

23:00 Inclusive Education and Social Skills


Why You’ll Love This Episode


This episode offers a thoughtful systems-level look at how special education can evolve beyond compliance into meaningful student impact. Nicole shares practical strategies for embedding social-emotional learning into transition programming, expanding mental health supports through community partnerships, and strengthening universal Tier 1 systems.


You will also hear a powerful leadership lesson about mindset. Nicole emphasizes that behavior is communication, and that adults must regulate themselves first in order to help students regulate. Her practical de-escalation strategies and districtwide partnership models provide clear examples of how to create consistent, student-centered systems across a large organization.


Connect with Nicole Tyo | Director of Special Education, South Western City Schools

Website: https://www.swcsd.us/Default.aspx 


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/



About Autonome

Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]> Wed, 04 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0500 Fran Kenton Fran Kenton 1605
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton, Founder and Creator of Autonome, sits down with Nicole Tyo, Director of Special Education at South Western City Schools in Ohio. Nicole oversees services for students ages 3 to 22, leading comprehensive systems that integrate IDEA compliance, inclusive practices, mental health supports, and proactive wellbeing.


Fran and Nicole explore what it truly takes to move special education from compliance-driven systems to impact-driven leadership. Nicole shares how her mother’s work in an ED classroom first inspired her career, and how her own experience being identified as dyslexic shaped her belief that students must be both supported and pushed toward their potential. Throughout the conversation, Nicole highlights the importance of social-emotional learning, transition planning, and consistent adult mindset as essential drivers of student success.


Whether you lead special education, student services, or a full district, this conversation provides actionable ideas for building environments where students are seen, heard, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential.


Key Moments


05:55 "Embracing Challenges and Growth"

06:38 Why students need to be supported and pushed

08:10 Launching multisensory literacy initiatives districtwide


09:28 Building Employability Through Targeted Programs


11:15 Handling Frustrated Customers Poorly

15:02 Tier 1 PBIS and universal SEL programming


16:46 Mindset Communication Transforms Student Behavior

18:17 "Challenges of a Large District"

23:00 Inclusive Education and Social Skills


Why You’ll Love This Episode


This episode offers a thoughtful systems-level look at how special education can evolve beyond compliance into meaningful student impact. Nicole shares practical strategies for embedding social-emotional learning into transition programming, expanding mental health supports through community partnerships, and strengthening universal Tier 1 systems.


You will also hear a powerful leadership lesson about mindset. Nicole emphasizes that behavior is communication, and that adults must regulate themselves first in order to help students regulate. Her practical de-escalation strategies and districtwide partnership models provide clear examples of how to create consistent, student-centered systems across a large organization.


Connect with Nicole Tyo | Director of Special Education, South Western City Schools

Website: https://www.swcsd.us/Default.aspx 


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/



About Autonome

Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]> No Strong Enough to Be Flexible: Andrew Morton’s Approach to Student Success and MTSS 4 4 Strong Enough to Be Flexible: Andrew Morton’s Approach to Student Success and MTSS full 95c2a294-749b-48e0-97cc-bd90247c0d26 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d2071e11
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton, Founder and Creator of Autonome, sits down with Andrew Morton, MTSS Behavior Coordinator and Director of Student Services at Mount Vernon R-V School District in Missouri. Andrew shares a powerful leadership journey that began with being a disengaged student, detoured through a career in golf, and ultimately led to special education after a life-altering health challenge reshaped his path.


Fran and Andrew explore what it takes to build behavior and support systems that actually work in real classrooms. Andrew reflects on the mentors who saw his gifts before he did, the resilience he learned while caring for a parent with a progressive illness, and how those experiences shaped his compassion, patience, and insistence on accountability. He introduces his “come alongside” leadership philosophy, supporting educators through clarity, consistency, and practical systems rather than mandates.


The conversation also dives into the districtwide impact of Andrew’s Restorative Reset Method, including a 42 percent reduction in office referrals across eight buildings in a previous role, and how he is now strengthening MTSS and special education processes in a smaller district by building teams, routines, and clear pathways of support.


Key Moments


04:21 "Discovering a Calling in Special Ed"


09:36 "Lessons in Flexibility from Family"


11:50 Supportive Principal Shaped My Journey


16:09 "Supporting Teachers, Supporting Students"


18:55 "Strong Enough to Be Flexible"


23:40 Weekly Support Meetings for Teachers


27:13 "Improving Classroom Placement Systems"


28:20 "Restorative Reset Method Manual"


Why You’ll Love This Episode


This episode offers a practical and grounded look at how behavior systems and MTSS can support both students and staff without burning educators out. Andrew shares clear, real-world examples of what consistency looks like, where flexibility matters most, and how leaders can create environments where students know what is expected and teachers feel supported.


You will also hear a thoughtful perspective on leadership that is both relational and operational. Andrew's mindset, paired with concrete systems like weekly staffings and restorative resets, provides a clear roadmap for districts looking to improve behavior outcomes while protecting the integrity of special education services.


Connect with Andrew Morton | MTSS Behavior Coordinator and Director of Student Services, Mount Vernon R-V School District

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-morton-31aba81a8
Website: https://www.mtvernon.k12.mo.us/ 


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome

Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/


About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]>
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton, Founder and Creator of Autonome, sits down with Andrew Morton, MTSS Behavior Coordinator and Director of Student Services at Mount Vernon R-V School District in Missouri. Andrew shares a powerful leadership journey that began with being a disengaged student, detoured through a career in golf, and ultimately led to special education after a life-altering health challenge reshaped his path.


Fran and Andrew explore what it takes to build behavior and support systems that actually work in real classrooms. Andrew reflects on the mentors who saw his gifts before he did, the resilience he learned while caring for a parent with a progressive illness, and how those experiences shaped his compassion, patience, and insistence on accountability. He introduces his “come alongside” leadership philosophy, supporting educators through clarity, consistency, and practical systems rather than mandates.


The conversation also dives into the districtwide impact of Andrew’s Restorative Reset Method, including a 42 percent reduction in office referrals across eight buildings in a previous role, and how he is now strengthening MTSS and special education processes in a smaller district by building teams, routines, and clear pathways of support.


Key Moments


04:21 "Discovering a Calling in Special Ed"


09:36 "Lessons in Flexibility from Family"


11:50 Supportive Principal Shaped My Journey


16:09 "Supporting Teachers, Supporting Students"


18:55 "Strong Enough to Be Flexible"


23:40 Weekly Support Meetings for Teachers


27:13 "Improving Classroom Placement Systems"


28:20 "Restorative Reset Method Manual"


Why You’ll Love This Episode


This episode offers a practical and grounded look at how behavior systems and MTSS can support both students and staff without burning educators out. Andrew shares clear, real-world examples of what consistency looks like, where flexibility matters most, and how leaders can create environments where students know what is expected and teachers feel supported.


You will also hear a thoughtful perspective on leadership that is both relational and operational. Andrew's mindset, paired with concrete systems like weekly staffings and restorative resets, provides a clear roadmap for districts looking to improve behavior outcomes while protecting the integrity of special education services.


Connect with Andrew Morton | MTSS Behavior Coordinator and Director of Student Services, Mount Vernon R-V School District

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-morton-31aba81a8
Website: https://www.mtvernon.k12.mo.us/ 


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome

Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/


About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]> Mon, 09 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0500 Fran Kenton Fran Kenton 1808
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton, Founder and Creator of Autonome, sits down with Andrew Morton, MTSS Behavior Coordinator and Director of Student Services at Mount Vernon R-V School District in Missouri. Andrew shares a powerful leadership journey that began with being a disengaged student, detoured through a career in golf, and ultimately led to special education after a life-altering health challenge reshaped his path.


Fran and Andrew explore what it takes to build behavior and support systems that actually work in real classrooms. Andrew reflects on the mentors who saw his gifts before he did, the resilience he learned while caring for a parent with a progressive illness, and how those experiences shaped his compassion, patience, and insistence on accountability. He introduces his “come alongside” leadership philosophy, supporting educators through clarity, consistency, and practical systems rather than mandates.


The conversation also dives into the districtwide impact of Andrew’s Restorative Reset Method, including a 42 percent reduction in office referrals across eight buildings in a previous role, and how he is now strengthening MTSS and special education processes in a smaller district by building teams, routines, and clear pathways of support.


Key Moments


04:21 "Discovering a Calling in Special Ed"


09:36 "Lessons in Flexibility from Family"


11:50 Supportive Principal Shaped My Journey


16:09 "Supporting Teachers, Supporting Students"


18:55 "Strong Enough to Be Flexible"


23:40 Weekly Support Meetings for Teachers


27:13 "Improving Classroom Placement Systems"


28:20 "Restorative Reset Method Manual"


Why You’ll Love This Episode


This episode offers a practical and grounded look at how behavior systems and MTSS can support both students and staff without burning educators out. Andrew shares clear, real-world examples of what consistency looks like, where flexibility matters most, and how leaders can create environments where students know what is expected and teachers feel supported.


You will also hear a thoughtful perspective on leadership that is both relational and operational. Andrew's mindset, paired with concrete systems like weekly staffings and restorative resets, provides a clear roadmap for districts looking to improve behavior outcomes while protecting the integrity of special education services.


Connect with Andrew Morton | MTSS Behavior Coordinator and Director of Student Services, Mount Vernon R-V School District

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-morton-31aba81a8
Website: https://www.mtvernon.k12.mo.us/ 


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome

Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/


About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]> No From Attendance Recovery to Wellness: Innovative Approaches in Student Services at Banning Unified 3 3 From Attendance Recovery to Wellness: Innovative Approaches in Student Services at Banning Unified full 6931ccc6-1401-4a73-b616-71767eaee378 https://share.transistor.fm/s/04938474 In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton, Founder and Creator of Autonome, sits down with Moises M. Merlos, Director of Student Services at Banning Unified School District. With more than two decades in public education, Moises shares how his journey, from aspiring medical professional to district leader, shaped a deeply student-centered approach to systems change.


Fran and Moises explore how attendance, school connectedness, and social-emotional supports intersect to drive student success. Moises walks through Banning USD’s comprehensive strategy: attendance recovery programs, wellness centers, expanded learning, community partnerships, and incentive systems designed to reengage students and families. The conversation highlights why improving attendance is about more than funding, it’s about belonging, trust, and consistent adult relationships.


They also discuss how rural context shapes student needs, why middle school requires targeted supports, and how strong Tier 1–3 systems can serve the whole child. Throughout the episode, Moises emphasizes purposeful change, clear communication, and hands-on leadership as essential ingredients for sustainable impact.


Key Moments


05:03 "Focusing on Whole-Child Support"


09:42 Boosting Attendance Through Engagement Programs


11:45 School Wellness Centers Boost Support


16:04 TK & Kindergarten Post-Pandemic Struggles


20:12 "Full-Day TK and Kindergarten"


21:54 Elementary STEAM Centers Expansion


26:27 "Commitment to Growth and Community"


30:35 "Effective Communication and Purpose"


32:37 "Building Strong Tiered Support"


36:13 Addressing Absenteeism and Engagement


Why You’ll Love This Episode


This conversation offers a practical, systems-level look at how districts can redesign student services to improve attendance, engagement, and wellbeing. Moises shares concrete examples, from wellness centers to community shoe drives, that show how small, thoughtful interventions can remove barriers to learning.


You’ll also hear a powerful reminder that sustainable change depends on trust, collaboration, and clear purpose. Whether you’re a district leader, principal, or student services professional, this episode provides actionable ideas for building inclusive, whole-child systems that help students, and families truly thrive.


Connect with Moises M. Merlos | Director of Student Services, Banning Unified School District


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moises-merlos-ed-d-81a7b279
Website: https://www.banning.k12.ca.us/ 


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/


About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]> In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton, Founder and Creator of Autonome, sits down with Moises M. Merlos, Director of Student Services at Banning Unified School District. With more than two decades in public education, Moises shares how his journey, from aspiring medical professional to district leader, shaped a deeply student-centered approach to systems change.


Fran and Moises explore how attendance, school connectedness, and social-emotional supports intersect to drive student success. Moises walks through Banning USD’s comprehensive strategy: attendance recovery programs, wellness centers, expanded learning, community partnerships, and incentive systems designed to reengage students and families. The conversation highlights why improving attendance is about more than funding, it’s about belonging, trust, and consistent adult relationships.


They also discuss how rural context shapes student needs, why middle school requires targeted supports, and how strong Tier 1–3 systems can serve the whole child. Throughout the episode, Moises emphasizes purposeful change, clear communication, and hands-on leadership as essential ingredients for sustainable impact.


Key Moments


05:03 "Focusing on Whole-Child Support"


09:42 Boosting Attendance Through Engagement Programs


11:45 School Wellness Centers Boost Support


16:04 TK & Kindergarten Post-Pandemic Struggles


20:12 "Full-Day TK and Kindergarten"


21:54 Elementary STEAM Centers Expansion


26:27 "Commitment to Growth and Community"


30:35 "Effective Communication and Purpose"


32:37 "Building Strong Tiered Support"


36:13 Addressing Absenteeism and Engagement


Why You’ll Love This Episode


This conversation offers a practical, systems-level look at how districts can redesign student services to improve attendance, engagement, and wellbeing. Moises shares concrete examples, from wellness centers to community shoe drives, that show how small, thoughtful interventions can remove barriers to learning.


You’ll also hear a powerful reminder that sustainable change depends on trust, collaboration, and clear purpose. Whether you’re a district leader, principal, or student services professional, this episode provides actionable ideas for building inclusive, whole-child systems that help students, and families truly thrive.


Connect with Moises M. Merlos | Director of Student Services, Banning Unified School District


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moises-merlos-ed-d-81a7b279
Website: https://www.banning.k12.ca.us/ 


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/


About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]> Wed, 04 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0500 Fran Kenton Fran Kenton 2249 In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton, Founder and Creator of Autonome, sits down with Moises M. Merlos, Director of Student Services at Banning Unified School District. With more than two decades in public education, Moises shares how his journey, from aspiring medical professional to district leader, shaped a deeply student-centered approach to systems change.


Fran and Moises explore how attendance, school connectedness, and social-emotional supports intersect to drive student success. Moises walks through Banning USD’s comprehensive strategy: attendance recovery programs, wellness centers, expanded learning, community partnerships, and incentive systems designed to reengage students and families. The conversation highlights why improving attendance is about more than funding, it’s about belonging, trust, and consistent adult relationships.


They also discuss how rural context shapes student needs, why middle school requires targeted supports, and how strong Tier 1–3 systems can serve the whole child. Throughout the episode, Moises emphasizes purposeful change, clear communication, and hands-on leadership as essential ingredients for sustainable impact.


Key Moments


05:03 "Focusing on Whole-Child Support"


09:42 Boosting Attendance Through Engagement Programs


11:45 School Wellness Centers Boost Support


16:04 TK & Kindergarten Post-Pandemic Struggles


20:12 "Full-Day TK and Kindergarten"


21:54 Elementary STEAM Centers Expansion


26:27 "Commitment to Growth and Community"


30:35 "Effective Communication and Purpose"


32:37 "Building Strong Tiered Support"


36:13 Addressing Absenteeism and Engagement


Why You’ll Love This Episode


This conversation offers a practical, systems-level look at how districts can redesign student services to improve attendance, engagement, and wellbeing. Moises shares concrete examples, from wellness centers to community shoe drives, that show how small, thoughtful interventions can remove barriers to learning.


You’ll also hear a powerful reminder that sustainable change depends on trust, collaboration, and clear purpose. Whether you’re a district leader, principal, or student services professional, this episode provides actionable ideas for building inclusive, whole-child systems that help students, and families truly thrive.


Connect with Moises M. Merlos | Director of Student Services, Banning Unified School District


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moises-merlos-ed-d-81a7b279
Website: https://www.banning.k12.ca.us/ 


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/


About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]> No Student Wellness, Safety, and Alternative Education Innovation with Dr. Bonny Porter 2 2 Student Wellness, Safety, and Alternative Education Innovation with Dr. Bonny Porter full dcdb9896-2e3b-4258-b4e0-fb855341cadd https://share.transistor.fm/s/56b077e9
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton sits down with Dr. Bonny Porter, Director of Student Services at Tehachapi Unified School District. Dr. Porter shares how his 33-year journey from elementary teacher to district leader shaped his commitment to student wellness, safety, and systems that support educators, families, and community needs. Fran and Dr. Porter discuss building coordinated supports like site-based social workers, updating discipline through root-cause approaches, expanding alternative learning options, and strengthening attendance strategies that keep students connected to learning.


Key Moments

01:39 Dr. Porter’s journey from classroom teacher to district leader


02:28 Why administration was never the plan and how it became the path


04:18 Learning district systems through curriculum and LCAP work


05:38 Creating the Director of Student Services role


06:56 Hiring school-based social workers and building systems from scratch


08:49 Post-COVID student needs and the growing focus on mental health


10:20 Using student voice to shape school culture and supports


11:03 Shifting discipline from punitive responses to root-cause solutions


12:42 In-school intervention as an alternative to suspension


16:38 Building districtwide culture with Capturing Kids’ Hearts


18:40 Attendance challenges after COVID and why presence matters


21:23 Launching a blended alternative school model for diverse learners


25:25 Expanded Learning Opportunities and after-school access


33:17 Funding realities and sustaining student services long-term


40:56 Teacher pipeline challenges and mentoring future leaders


Why You’ll Love This Episode

This episode offers a clear look at how districts can strengthen student wellness and school safety through coordinated supports, positive culture systems, and practical alternatives to exclusionary discipline. Dr. Porter shares grounded examples leaders can adapt to reduce behavior issues, support staff, and keep students learning.
You will also hear innovative ways districts can meet community needs through flexible learning models, expanded-day programming, and attendance strategies that prioritize connection and access. If you lead student services, curriculum, or school operations, you will leave with ideas you can apply right away.


Connect with Dr. Bonny Porter | Director of Student Services, Tehachapi Unified School
District

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonny-porter-ab790755/
Website: https://www.tehachapiusd.com/


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome
Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/


About Autonome
Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.


If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]>
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton sits down with Dr. Bonny Porter, Director of Student Services at Tehachapi Unified School District. Dr. Porter shares how his 33-year journey from elementary teacher to district leader shaped his commitment to student wellness, safety, and systems that support educators, families, and community needs. Fran and Dr. Porter discuss building coordinated supports like site-based social workers, updating discipline through root-cause approaches, expanding alternative learning options, and strengthening attendance strategies that keep students connected to learning.


Key Moments

01:39 Dr. Porter’s journey from classroom teacher to district leader


02:28 Why administration was never the plan and how it became the path


04:18 Learning district systems through curriculum and LCAP work


05:38 Creating the Director of Student Services role


06:56 Hiring school-based social workers and building systems from scratch


08:49 Post-COVID student needs and the growing focus on mental health


10:20 Using student voice to shape school culture and supports


11:03 Shifting discipline from punitive responses to root-cause solutions


12:42 In-school intervention as an alternative to suspension


16:38 Building districtwide culture with Capturing Kids’ Hearts


18:40 Attendance challenges after COVID and why presence matters


21:23 Launching a blended alternative school model for diverse learners


25:25 Expanded Learning Opportunities and after-school access


33:17 Funding realities and sustaining student services long-term


40:56 Teacher pipeline challenges and mentoring future leaders


Why You’ll Love This Episode

This episode offers a clear look at how districts can strengthen student wellness and school safety through coordinated supports, positive culture systems, and practical alternatives to exclusionary discipline. Dr. Porter shares grounded examples leaders can adapt to reduce behavior issues, support staff, and keep students learning.
You will also hear innovative ways districts can meet community needs through flexible learning models, expanded-day programming, and attendance strategies that prioritize connection and access. If you lead student services, curriculum, or school operations, you will leave with ideas you can apply right away.


Connect with Dr. Bonny Porter | Director of Student Services, Tehachapi Unified School
District

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonny-porter-ab790755/
Website: https://www.tehachapiusd.com/


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome
Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/


About Autonome
Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.


If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]> Fri, 16 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0500 Fran Kenton Fran Kenton 3343
In this episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton sits down with Dr. Bonny Porter, Director of Student Services at Tehachapi Unified School District. Dr. Porter shares how his 33-year journey from elementary teacher to district leader shaped his commitment to student wellness, safety, and systems that support educators, families, and community needs. Fran and Dr. Porter discuss building coordinated supports like site-based social workers, updating discipline through root-cause approaches, expanding alternative learning options, and strengthening attendance strategies that keep students connected to learning.


Key Moments

01:39 Dr. Porter’s journey from classroom teacher to district leader


02:28 Why administration was never the plan and how it became the path


04:18 Learning district systems through curriculum and LCAP work


05:38 Creating the Director of Student Services role


06:56 Hiring school-based social workers and building systems from scratch


08:49 Post-COVID student needs and the growing focus on mental health


10:20 Using student voice to shape school culture and supports


11:03 Shifting discipline from punitive responses to root-cause solutions


12:42 In-school intervention as an alternative to suspension


16:38 Building districtwide culture with Capturing Kids’ Hearts


18:40 Attendance challenges after COVID and why presence matters


21:23 Launching a blended alternative school model for diverse learners


25:25 Expanded Learning Opportunities and after-school access


33:17 Funding realities and sustaining student services long-term


40:56 Teacher pipeline challenges and mentoring future leaders


Why You’ll Love This Episode

This episode offers a clear look at how districts can strengthen student wellness and school safety through coordinated supports, positive culture systems, and practical alternatives to exclusionary discipline. Dr. Porter shares grounded examples leaders can adapt to reduce behavior issues, support staff, and keep students learning.
You will also hear innovative ways districts can meet community needs through flexible learning models, expanded-day programming, and attendance strategies that prioritize connection and access. If you lead student services, curriculum, or school operations, you will leave with ideas you can apply right away.


Connect with Dr. Bonny Porter | Director of Student Services, Tehachapi Unified School
District

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonny-porter-ab790755/
Website: https://www.tehachapiusd.com/


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome
Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/


About Autonome
Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.


If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]> No Career Readiness, Relevance, and Real-World Learning with Jarrad Grandy 1 1 Career Readiness, Relevance, and Real-World Learning with Jarrad Grandy full 59588886-13f7-408e-a32d-7d63deb15126 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5bdcab75 In the very first episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton, Founder and Creator of Autonome, sits down with Jarrad Grandy, Executive Director of Student Services at Oakland Schools. Serving more than 176,000 students across 28 districts, Jarrad shares how his journey from teacher to administrator to countywide leader shaped his mission to help every student become career ready.

Fran and Jarrad discuss how students can explore three essential questions: What are you good at? What do you like to do? Is someone willing to pay you for it? They also talk about the challenge of moving from isolated success to scalable systems, and how Oakland Schools is building a first-of-its-kind K–12 nanotech, AI, and synthetic biology lab designed to make learning relevant to the real world.


Key Moments


01:18 Jarrad’s path from student to teacher to district leader

03:03 Why early career challenges pushed him toward leadership

04:16 The conversation that shifted him from building work to district work

05:21 How family guidance influenced his leadership decisions

06:15 The biggest challenge in education: scaling excellence

07:04 Why making every student career ready is his core mission

08:28 Moving from pockets of excellence to consistent systems

09:03 Using clear, measurable targets to drive districtwide progress

11:11 Funding and supports available for district experiences

12:48 Awareness, exploration, and preparation as a continuous cycle

14:24 Why educators need industry experiences to teach real relevance

18:09 Teaching human skills like communication and collaboration

20:12 Using real problems instead of symbolic examples

23:02 What systems must shift to ensure true career readiness


Why You’ll Love This Episode


This episode gives a practical and clear look at what career readiness should mean today. Jarrad shares a simple but powerful framework that blends relevance, industry alignment, and repeated student experiences so districts can help learners connect their strengths to real opportunities. His examples show how to make learning stick and how to redesign experiences so students can understand what is possible for their futures.


You will also hear a thoughtful perspective on systems change. Jarrad explains how teacher externships, industry partnerships, and meaningful curriculum shifts can help districts scale what works. Whether you are a teacher, principal, or district leader, you will find concrete steps to elevate student agency and future readiness.


Connect with Jarrad Grandy | Executive Director of Student Services, Oakland Schools


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarrad-grandy/
Website: https://www.oakland.k12.mi.us/


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/


About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]> In the very first episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton, Founder and Creator of Autonome, sits down with Jarrad Grandy, Executive Director of Student Services at Oakland Schools. Serving more than 176,000 students across 28 districts, Jarrad shares how his journey from teacher to administrator to countywide leader shaped his mission to help every student become career ready.

Fran and Jarrad discuss how students can explore three essential questions: What are you good at? What do you like to do? Is someone willing to pay you for it? They also talk about the challenge of moving from isolated success to scalable systems, and how Oakland Schools is building a first-of-its-kind K–12 nanotech, AI, and synthetic biology lab designed to make learning relevant to the real world.


Key Moments


01:18 Jarrad’s path from student to teacher to district leader

03:03 Why early career challenges pushed him toward leadership

04:16 The conversation that shifted him from building work to district work

05:21 How family guidance influenced his leadership decisions

06:15 The biggest challenge in education: scaling excellence

07:04 Why making every student career ready is his core mission

08:28 Moving from pockets of excellence to consistent systems

09:03 Using clear, measurable targets to drive districtwide progress

11:11 Funding and supports available for district experiences

12:48 Awareness, exploration, and preparation as a continuous cycle

14:24 Why educators need industry experiences to teach real relevance

18:09 Teaching human skills like communication and collaboration

20:12 Using real problems instead of symbolic examples

23:02 What systems must shift to ensure true career readiness


Why You’ll Love This Episode


This episode gives a practical and clear look at what career readiness should mean today. Jarrad shares a simple but powerful framework that blends relevance, industry alignment, and repeated student experiences so districts can help learners connect their strengths to real opportunities. His examples show how to make learning stick and how to redesign experiences so students can understand what is possible for their futures.


You will also hear a thoughtful perspective on systems change. Jarrad explains how teacher externships, industry partnerships, and meaningful curriculum shifts can help districts scale what works. Whether you are a teacher, principal, or district leader, you will find concrete steps to elevate student agency and future readiness.


Connect with Jarrad Grandy | Executive Director of Student Services, Oakland Schools


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarrad-grandy/
Website: https://www.oakland.k12.mi.us/


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/


About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

]]> Wed, 07 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0500 Fran Kenton Fran Kenton 1529 In the very first episode of Autonome, host Fran Kenton, Founder and Creator of Autonome, sits down with Jarrad Grandy, Executive Director of Student Services at Oakland Schools. Serving more than 176,000 students across 28 districts, Jarrad shares how his journey from teacher to administrator to countywide leader shaped his mission to help every student become career ready.

Fran and Jarrad discuss how students can explore three essential questions: What are you good at? What do you like to do? Is someone willing to pay you for it? They also talk about the challenge of moving from isolated success to scalable systems, and how Oakland Schools is building a first-of-its-kind K–12 nanotech, AI, and synthetic biology lab designed to make learning relevant to the real world.


Key Moments


01:18 Jarrad’s path from student to teacher to district leader

03:03 Why early career challenges pushed him toward leadership

04:16 The conversation that shifted him from building work to district work

05:21 How family guidance influenced his leadership decisions

06:15 The biggest challenge in education: scaling excellence

07:04 Why making every student career ready is his core mission

08:28 Moving from pockets of excellence to consistent systems

09:03 Using clear, measurable targets to drive districtwide progress

11:11 Funding and supports available for district experiences

12:48 Awareness, exploration, and preparation as a continuous cycle

14:24 Why educators need industry experiences to teach real relevance

18:09 Teaching human skills like communication and collaboration

20:12 Using real problems instead of symbolic examples

23:02 What systems must shift to ensure true career readiness


Why You’ll Love This Episode


This episode gives a practical and clear look at what career readiness should mean today. Jarrad shares a simple but powerful framework that blends relevance, industry alignment, and repeated student experiences so districts can help learners connect their strengths to real opportunities. His examples show how to make learning stick and how to redesign experiences so students can understand what is possible for their futures.


You will also hear a thoughtful perspective on systems change. Jarrad explains how teacher externships, industry partnerships, and meaningful curriculum shifts can help districts scale what works. Whether you are a teacher, principal, or district leader, you will find concrete steps to elevate student agency and future readiness.


Connect with Jarrad Grandy | Executive Director of Student Services, Oakland Schools


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarrad-grandy/
Website: https://www.oakland.k12.mi.us/


Connect with Fran Kenton and Autonome


Fran Kenton
Founder and Creator, Autonome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-kenton-a0a7969a/


Autonome
Website: https://www.autonome101.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/autonome101/


About Autonome


Autonome is the podcast where district leaders share practical, scalable ways to build students’ foundational life skills—wellbeing, identity and purpose, relationships, and executive function—so they can manage life today and be ready for what’s next.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Autonome for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of student success.

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