This past summer, I was offered the opportunity to lead a school district as its superintendent. Of course, I accepted.
It’s a role I’ve prepared for over the past ten years at the central office level in a few different school districts. Along the way, I have often taken on responsibilities far outside my lane, worked on district initiatives, and held cabinet positions. I’ve paid attention.
I also engaged with formal instruction on leadership, school operations, finance, HR, and so much more – both in workshops, legal updates, graduate coursework at Kent State, and on-the-job training.
Sitting in personnel meetings, dealing with conflict and negotiations, writing the book on operations, holding people accountable, making it happen, and thinking outside the box to get stuff done have been daily habits since 2010…
In the past six months, I’ve had the pleasure of leading – unhinged. With passion, drive, and a steadfast belief that “we got this!” every day. Making decisions, setting the pace, and seeing progress fuels me, and it feels good to see it all in action.
Making connections, too, has been a new opportunity this fall. Over the past years, I’ve built a network, like you do, of like-minded individuals, people in the same field, or folks who knew something I didn’t.
Now, I’ve expanded, added, and enhanced my circle. I’ve been so fortunate to be supported by those before me – other superintendents, school leaders, mentors, coaches, and state organizations that hold it all together for us newbies.
The old saying about speed and leadership is true. “If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go together…” Forging new friendships and professional relationships makes the journey all that more pleasant.
While a textbook can’t tell the whole story, sprinkle in some experience, the willingness to learn from others, and a few crumbs of humble pie, and you have a good mix of what it takes to lead in today’s school districts.
It’s not easy if that’s what you think. But that sounds like another blog post for another day… Here’s to 20 more years in educational leadership! Happy New Year!