What are we learning from classroom walk-throughs?
As the new year begins, we find ourselves with two questions that have come up during debrief sessions in multiple districts.
As the new year begins, we find ourselves with two questions that have come up during debrief sessions in multiple districts.
When Hempstead ISD Superintendent Herbert O’Neil walks through a school with his tripod, students flock to him to find out which of their classmates he’s going to feature in his next video.
Two weeks ago, the District Administration Leadership Institute hosted its latest Superintendents Summit in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. And if you were to ask attendees about their experience—which we did—they’d tell you they left inspired and reignited, ready to return to their communities with the ideas and takeaways from conversations they had throughout the event.
“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.
“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.
“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 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.
Help us shine a spotlight on the incredible work happening in your district, and let your innovative initiatives inspire others to transform education. Stay tuned for submission guidelines, and important dates. Don’t miss this chance to be recognized as a trailblazer in education!
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