“You survived it, tell your story,” is a quote that’s been resonating with Cincinnati Public Schools Superintendent Iranetta Rayborn Wright. She says when you finally understand and believe in that, then you must tell your story, because somebody needs to hear it.
Three years ago, about 30 students across eight different schools throughout Denver Public Schools went to the board of education to pass a climate change policy. Now, they’re receiving national attention for their efforts.
“The fact remains: seven out of 10 districts are led by men even though women make up the overwhelming majority of the education workforce,” said Dr. Julia Rafal-Baer, CEO of ILO Group and founder of Women Leading Ed, in a new report.
In order for there to be more women involved in district leadership, it requires current and aspiring leaders to create a strong network of females who advocate for one another. And that’s the mission these two have sought out to do in their own communities.
With these three networks at your helm, navigate confidently, knowing that you’re not alone but surrounded by a group of individuals who are eager to support and learn alongside you.
“It doesn’t matter if you have the best teacher in the classroom and high-quality materials… if our students’ well-being is not taken care of, they’re not going to be able to receive all of that great instruction,” says Candice Castillo, executive officer of student support services at Houston ISD.
The West Virginia district’s instructional innovations kicked into high gear when Superintendent Adam Cheeseman got his students involved in bringing broadband to his rural community.
Carvalho, who will be giving a keynote speech at the District Administration Leadership Institute Executive Cabinet Retreat next week, says there’s one leadership trait that simply can’t be taught: “a huge personal chip on your shoulder.”
The choice of language in leadership is more than mere semantics; it’s a fundamental reflection of our approach towards those we lead. As we strive to cultivate an empowering, innovative, and compassionate school culture, let us consciously shift our language and leadership style from “what I want from you” to “what I want for you”.
“Be so bold in your approach to work that you actually invite termination for being so passionate,” says Carvalho, superintendent at the Los Angeles Unified School District, the second-largest in the country.
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