Dr. Matthew Friedman, Ed.D., Superintendent of the Quakertown Community School District, was featured in the latest episode of the Cook Center for Human Connection's The Superintendent Effect podcast, where he shares how his district is reimagining education to prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world.
Recently named an Innovative Leader of the Year, Dr. Friedman discusses the district’s focus on purpose, connection, and helping students understand who they are and what they can become.
Throughout the conversation, several key themes emerge that highlight Quakertown’s forward-thinking approach to education:
Career Readiness Starts Early: Using the RIASEC framework, students begin exploring their strengths and interests as early as kindergarten.
Portrait of a Graduate: A district-wide vision guiding students to develop critical thinking, collaboration, adaptability, and creativity.
Design & Computational Thinking: Integrated across subjects to promote problem-solving and innovation.
Student Voice Matters: Programs and pathways are shaped with student input, giving learners agency and ownership of their education.
Supporting the Whole Child: A partnership with the Cook Center for Human Connection provides families with free mental health resources to strengthen connection at home and school.
Belonging as a Foundation: Building a culture where every student feels seen, supported, and valued.
Dr. Friedman emphasizes that when students are guided toward meaning and identity, they don’t just gain skills—they gain confidence and direction.
🎧 Listen to the full episode of The Superintendent Effect featuring Dr. Friedman: