In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy York Devoud sits down with David Ritchey, Superintendent of Lamesa Independent School District in rural West Texas. David shares how his district is leading with heart and innovation—creating equitable opportunities through technology, strong Tier 1 instruction, and community-rooted career pathways.

Together, Wendy and David explore how Lamesa ISD is transforming teaching and learning by pairing high expectations with genuine care. From providing iPads for every student to launching a P-TECH early-college model that graduates students with certifications or degrees, David’s story reveals how a clear vision and a culture of belonging can change outcomes for an entire community.

Key Moments

00:00 Overcoming tech glitches and getting started

00:51 Innovating with Apple technology in every classroom

03:02 Every student—Pre-K through 12—has an iPad

05:17 Leading through visibility and relationships

07:11 Strengthening Tier 1 instruction district-wide

10:38 Launching P-TECH for college and career pathways

13:53 Ensuring every graduate leaves with opportunity and choice

17:52 Building homegrown leadership and teacher pipelines

27:21 Coaching administrators to coach teachers

34:33 Leading with empathy, consistency, and care

Why You’ll Love This Episode

This is a powerful look at what’s possible when small districts dream big. Superintendent Ritchey shows how to turn vision into action—through Tier 1 excellence, authentic relationships, and opportunities that last long after graduation. If you believe leadership starts with love and ends with impact, this one’s for you.

Connect with Superintendent David Ritchey

Website: https://www.lamesaisd.net/

Follow Us

Wendy York Devoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryork
Lead Teach Learn 360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.com
Lead Teach Learn 360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/

About Unlock 360°

Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they’re 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.