View webinar recording

Learn how district leaders can design and implement effective induction programs that support novice teachers from day one. This session highlights key components of successful programs, including:
     •  Mentoring
     •  Coaching
     •  Aligned professional learning.

Participants will explore strategies to increase teacher retention, build instructional capacity, and foster a culture of continuous growth. Discover practical tools and examples from districts that have strengthened new teacher development through intentional leadership.

Meet the Speakers

Walter Gonsoulin, Ph.D.
Superintendent, Jefferson County Schools, AL
dwojdula@jefcoed.com

Walter B. Gonsoulin Jr. is the Superintendent of Jefferson County Schools in Birmingham, Alabama. The Jefferson County School District is the second-largest school district in Alabama serving over 34,000 students in 57 different schools.

Dr. Gonsoulin has been an educator for over thirty years. He has served in various educational capacities including an elementary 5th and 6th grade teacher, a physical education teacher for grades 4-6, an assistant principal of a middle school, a principal, and assistant director of a career and technology center. He has served in other areas as an assistant professor, an assistant superintendent for the Starkville School District located in Starkville, Mississippi, and the superintendent for the Fairfield School System located in Fairfield, Alabama. He has also been a diversity consultant for school districts throughout the southern and northeastern regions of the country. He has written and published over 15 refereed journal articles and has presented at international, national, and state conferences.

Dr. Gonsoulin holds a B.A. in Interpersonal Counseling and Communications from the University of Southwestern Louisiana, a second B.A. from the University of Southwestern Louisiana majoring in Elementary Education, and obtained his M.Ed. in Administration and Supervision of Education from Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Dr. Gonsoulin’s quest for educational attainment eventually led him to Mississippi State University where he successfully completed a Ph.D. program in the field of Curriculum and Instruction.

Justin Alexander
Position Control Supervisor, Sumner County Schools, TN
justin.alexander@sumnerschools.org

With over 17 years of experience in education and 8 years in educational administration, Dr. Alexander is a seasoned and innovative leader committed to advancing the field of educator preparation and supporting the professional growth of teachers. His administrative expertise spans both building-level and district-level leadership, offering a well-rounded perspective on the needs and challenges of modern educational systems.

Dr. Alexander holds a Master’s degree in Teaching, a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, and a Doctorate in Organizational Management and Professional Practice. This strong academic foundation along with experience in the field informs his strategic vision and data-informed approach to leadership.

A passionate advocate for teacher support and development, Dr. Alexander has led transformative initiatives that prioritize educator satisfaction, instructional excellence, and sustainable growth. His work reflects a deep commitment to opportunity, innovation, and the continuous improvement of teaching and learning environments.

Jennifer Grainger
Cosmetology Teacher, Gallatin High School, TN
jennifer.grainger@sumnerschools.org

Jennifer Grainger is a licensed cosmetologist with 10 years of professional experience who launched a high school cosmetology program four years ago. Over the past 20 years, she has built and successfully managed two businesses, fueled by an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for creativity. Today, she combine that experience with her love for teaching teenagers, helping them discover their worth, develop their skills, and chase their dreams. She feels truly blessed to be living my favorite life.

Sara Swinger
6th Grade English Language Arts Teacher, Portland East Middle School, TN
sara.swinger@sumnerschools.org

Sara Swinger is a second-year teacher, serving as a 6th grade English Language Arts teacher at Portland East Middle School. A native of Sumner County, she is passionate about giving back to her community through education. After earning both her undergraduate degree in English and her Master’s in Public Service Management from Cumberland University, she began her career in juvenile justice as a probation officer with Davidson County Juvenile Court. Inspired to follow her lifelong dream of becoming a teacher, she now brings both her academic background and real-world experience into the classroom to empower and support her students.

Recorded on Sept. 18, 2025