Meka Childs is a South Carolina native, former middle school teacher, and longtime education leader with deep experience in policy, school improvement, and educator development. A Duke University graduate, she has spent her career supporting schools, districts, and communities to ensure every child, regardless of zip code, has access to high-quality learning opportunities. Meka is also a military wife, mother, mentor, and active community servant committed to strengthening education through collaboration, local leadership, and student-centered solutions.

On this episode, Ann Marie and Todd explore South Carolina's School Report Cards with Meka.

Ann Marie and Todd explore accountability with John Payne, Deputy Superintendent of the South Carolina Public Charter School District. John oversees authorization, data, and accountability for more than 40 public schools statewide.

He previously served as Deputy State Superintendent at the South Carolina Department of Education, leading major initiatives including protecting $80 million in IDEA funding, helping create the South Carolina High School Credential, and managing the deployment of $3.5 billion in pandemic relief funds.

A three-time graduate of the University of South Carolina, John has taught at the high school and university levels, published nationally, and led statewide programs spanning special education, accountability, assessment, and charter authorization. He has also served on the Council of Chief State School Officers and the National Assessment Governing Board, helping oversee NAEP—the Nation’s Report Card.

On this episode of Unbridled, Ann Marie and Todd talk about teacher well-being with Tish Jennings, Ph.D. Tish is an internationally recognized leader in the fields of social and emotional learning (SEL), mindfulness in education, and teacher well-being. A Professor of Education at the University of Virginia’s School of Education and Human Development, her research focuses on promoting well-being in K-12 learning environments. Her work has been recognized by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for supporting school mental health and by the Collaborative for Academic, Social and Emotional Learning (CASEL) for supporting adult SEL. A former teacher, school director, and teacher educator with over two decades of practical experience, Jennings brings deep insight to her work. She has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and several books including Mindfulness for Teachers, The Trauma-Sensitive Classroom, and The Mindful School.