Brian L Talbott

Brian L. Talbott, Ph.D. is the National Executive Director of the American Association of Educational Service Agencies (AAESA). The mission of AAESA is to serve as the national voice for educational service agencies and to support learning, technical assistance, advocacy, and research for the regional service centers throughout the United States. Dr. Talbott is responsible for daily operations, personnel, private contractors, and the overall administration of AAESA. Services include professional development, legislative advocacy, research and publications, public/private business partnerships, membership networking, technical support, and board/superintendent training. From 1982-1998, Dr. Talbott served as superintendent of Educational Service District 101 (ESD101) in Spokane, Washington. Dr. Talbott was responsible for the operation of all programs administered by ESD 101, a regional service agency, providing cooperative services to 59 public school districts and 54 private schools in Eastern Washington. These duties included oversight of curriculum/instruction, telecommunications, and school financial services. As the agency's chief executive, he also served as general manager of the STEP/Star Network, ESD 101's nationwide educational television network (and a federal Star Schools grantee). STEP/Star, one of the nation's oldest and largest distance learning networks, produces live, interactive instructional programs – delivered by satellite and cable – to youth and adult audiences in six time zones. Dr. Talbot directed all aspects of the telecommunications program since network development began in 1985 until June 30, 1998. Dr. Talbott was responsible for a staff of over 200 and an annual operating budget exceeding $30 million. Dr. Talbott has had a full range of experience in his career. In addition to his work as a National Executive Director and an Educational Service District Superintendent, he has served as university instructor of graduate and undergraduate courses, secondary teacher, coach, vice principal, principal, and local school district superintendent. Dr. Talbott holds a Ph.D. in educational administration and research from the University of Idaho, a master's degree in educational administration from Seattle University, and a bachelor's degree in secondary education from the University of Washington.