In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy York Davoud sits down with Jonathan Eggerman, Deputy Superintendent of Pine Tree ISD, to explore how proximity, relationships, and everyday leadership practices are fueling major growth across the district.

Jonathan shares his path from Arkansas coach and principal to deputy superintendent in East Texas, and how Pine Tree ISD has built a culture where leaders stay close to classrooms, kids, and each other. From removing obstacles for teachers to celebrating wins as a district family, he describes how intentional, relational leadership can transform campus culture and academic outcomes.

The conversation moves through real systems that make Pine Tree’s momentum possible, including teacher mentorship structures, leadership pipelines, and the district’s “rock star” framework for defining excellence. Jonathan also explains how Pine Tree maintains consistency as schools continue to grow, improve, and set higher goals each year.

Key Moments

00:00 Welcome and introduction to Deputy Superintendent Jonathan Eggerman

01:07 Jonathan’s early career in Arkansas and entry into admin roles

02:38 Moving into principal and superintendent work in Texas

04:29 Transition to Pine Tree ISD and partnership with Superintendent Clugston

07:19 The district’s “culture of proximity” and daily campus visibility

11:19 Why relationships drive learning and community trust

12:23 Proactive leadership versus reactive systems

17:44 Building a district family through events, shared service, and support

19:47 “Hoist the Colors” and districtwide community-building traditions

26:43 Pine Tree’s recent academic and extracurricular growth

31:38 Letting great teachers teach and removing barriers

33:24 Anchor Academy, Leadership Cubed, and mentoring structures

Why You Will Love This Episode

You will hear a candid, practical look at how Pine Tree ISD built a healthy, high-trust culture that supports both academic results and human connection. Jonathan offers insights leaders can apply immediately, from sustaining momentum after big gains to designing support systems that help teachers thrive.

Connect with Jonathan Eggerman
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-eggerman-052989244/
Website: https://ptisd.org

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Wendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryork
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About Unlock 360°

Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they are turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead Teach Learn 360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement, one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time.

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