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In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy York Davoud sits down with Superintendent Steve Clugston of Pine Tree Independent School District in East Texas. With more than 20 years as a superintendent, Clugston shares how transforming culture—not just curriculum—became the heartbeat of Pine Tree’s turnaround story.
From redefining district-level service to empowering teachers and growing “rock stars” from within, Clugston pulls back the curtain on what it takes to build systems that truly serve. His leadership philosophy centers on family, growth, and sustainability—ensuring the culture you build continues long after you’ve left.
Key Moments
02:13 How Pine Tree’s story began with a broken system and a bold new approach
05:51 The “why” behind leaving the classroom and leading for legacy
08:34 Culture over curriculum: rebuilding relationships and respect
15:00 Hiring and growing “rock stars” who model excellence
21:32 Accountability through autonomy: how Pine Tree balances freedom and results
27:29 The Anchor Academy and leadership retreats that sustain growth
41:04 Teaching six essential life outcomes that drive all success
Why You’ll Love This Episode
Superintendent Clugston offers a powerful, practical look at how servant leadership reshapes school systems from the inside out. Clugston’s message is clear: education isn’t complicated, it’s about making schools a place where good people want to work and kids want to be.
Connect with Steve Clugston
Website: https://www.ptisd.org/
Follow Us:
Wendy York Davoud 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.
Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more conversations.
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