Uncover what it really takes to overcome educational inequities with Dr. Robin Avelar La Salle and special guest Dr. Paul Gothold in this compelling episode of the Shattering Inequities podcast. Through real stories, hard data, and actionable insights, they break down how school leaders and communities can transform systems to support every student—regardless of background or circumstance.

• Dr. Paul Gotthold’s powerful personal journey from avoiding education to becoming a passionate leader for equity, shaped by his own family story and early teaching experiences with marginalized students.
• The turnaround story of Lynwood Unified School District: how raising expectations, eliminating tracking, and granting open access to advanced courses led to record academic performance and expanded college opportunities for all student groups.
• Why tackling inequity demands addressing systems and structures, not just individuals, and the importance of moving beyond “normalization of failure” to reimagine what’s possible for every child.
• Practical strategies for educational leaders: building coalitions, designing equitable master schedules, removing unnecessary barriers, and creating a culture anchored in belief and high achievement for every student.
• Insights into developing the next generation of transcendent superintendents—including training, board relationships, and the essential will and skill to challenge the status quo and keep kids at the center of every decision.

Tune in for honest reflections, field-tested solutions, and hope-filled leadership that proves lasting change is not only possible—it’s happening.

Chapters

00:00 "Challenging Educational Inequality Assumptions"

07:35 "Inspired by Transformative Teaching Journey"

11:39 "Paul's Inspiring Teaching Journey"

17:54 Revitalizing School Community Together

22:21 Inequities in Educational Opportunities

27:20 Equal Education Through Consistency

33:42 Connecting Academia to Real Life

37:19 "Systemic Solutions for Education"

47:16 Building Bridges Amidst Political Divide

48:31 "Prioritizing Understanding and Relationships"

55:59 Building Transcendent Superintendents

01:00:52 Complexity and Leadership in Education

01:06:20 "The Power of Public Education"

Quote of the Show

Every Child Deserves a Chance: "If we as a system shifted our thinking and mindsets and believed, truly believed in every single child that great things could happen."