Principal Office Hours

Summary:

Explore the transformative strategies for building leadership depth in K-12 education with Dr. Jim as he speaks with Dr. Matt Hillmann, Superintendent of Northfield Schools in Minnesota. Discover how the district tackles educator shortages and declining enrollment by leveraging cross-functional work teams. Learn about innovative approaches to enhancing collaboration, professional development, and retention, all while maintaining high community expectations. Dr. Hillmann shares insights on navigating challenges with clarity, focus, and continuous improvement to foster a culture of success and empowerment for educators and staff.

Key Takeaways:

• Distributed Leadership: Learn about the benefits of using work teams to cultivate leadership depth across educational districts, enhancing collaboration and problem-solving.
• Strategic Collaboration: Discover how engaging various stakeholders and employing strategic planning frameworks can create inclusive and effective educational environments.
• Innovative Compensation Models: Understand the role of total compensation, including non-monetary benefits, in attracting broader participation and expert involvement in solution-based work teams.
• Clarity and Focus in Execution: Dr. Hillmann stresses the importance of having clear goals and focused priorities to maximize the effectiveness of work teams and prevent burnout.
• Continuous Improvement: Embrace a culture of continual evaluation and adjustment to keep initiatives dynamic and responsive to changing challenges.

Chapters:

00:00

Building Leadership Depth in K-12 Education

02:49

Dr. Matt Hillmann's Leadership Journey from Journalism to Education

06:03

Building Collaborative Leadership in a School District

15:36

Collaborative Work Teams Transform Educational Challenges

24:54

Enhancing Employee Performance and Retention Through Core Expectations

30:50

Building Leadership Depth Through Clarity, Focus, and Iteration

Connect with Dr. Jim: linkedin.com/in/drjimk

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Dr. Matt Hillmann: linkedin.com/in/matt-hillmann-29832617

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

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Join CT and Dr. David Miyashiro as they explore groundbreaking education strategies to nurture happy kids and healthy relationships. Discover how Dr. David Miyashiro, Superintendent of Cajon Valley Union School District, is transforming K-12 education with a focus on student happiness, real-world readiness, and community engagement. Learn about innovative programs like the "World of Work" curriculum and student TED Talks, which prepare students for careers and life with practical skills and confidence.

Key Takeaways:

Innovative programs like the World of Work curriculum and student TED Talks foster career readiness and essential communication skills from an early age.

Collaboration with local industries bridges education and employment, ensuring students are equipped for real-world success.

Prioritizing student happiness and emotional well-being creates a supportive and engaging learning environment.

Embracing diversity and challenging outdated models helps align education with modern community needs.

A holistic approach to education prepares students not only to excel academically but also to thrive personally and professionally.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

00:53 School Diversity

02:22 Educational Vision

04:04 Impact of Industrial Revolution

05:19 Stigmatizing Careers

06:14 Skills and Curriculum

08:35 Learning from Others

13:02 Increasing Enrollment

18:32 Personal Leadership Journey

27:32 Paid Apprenticeships Goal

32:52 Encouraging Leadership

Connect with Dr. Jim: linkedin.com/in/drjimk

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Dr. David Miyashiro: linkedin.com/in/davidmiyashiro

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe

Summary:

Dr. Jim explores successful change management in leadership with Heidie Ciesielski, Superintendent of Fenton Area Public Schools. Heidie shares her district's story of transformation by building leadership capability and capacity among educators. She discusses overcoming traditional assumptions, navigating union dynamics, and leveraging strategic planning to empower teacher leaders. The conversation captures how investment in people, strategic communication of benefits, and strong organizational structures can drive meaningful organizational change. Gain insights on fostering educator retention and enhancing leadership effectiveness in educational environments.

Key Takeaways:

• Leadership Development: Heidi emphasizes enhancing leadership capacity at the teacher level by establishing a supportive structure that includes roles like instructional technology coaches and MTSS coordinators.
• Trust Building: Building trust is pivotal; Heidi discusses the nuances of re-establishing trust even in districts where she was familiar with staff, highlighting the importance of purposeful action and clear communication.
• Strategic Empowerment: The significance of a clear strategic plan with achievable goals is discussed as crucial for fostering an environment where educators are motivated to participate in decision-making processes.
• Collaborative Culture: Cultivating a collaborative environment, where teachers are integrated into leadership roles, enriches job satisfaction and retention while enhancing educational outcomes.

Chapters:

00:00

Strategies for Successful Organizational Change and Transformation

02:57

A Rural-Suburban School District with Phenomenal People

03:38

Building Trust and Leadership in Educational Administration

07:37

Balancing Tradition and Change in a Unique School District

09:53

Empowering Teachers as Leaders to Drive School District Change

14:52

Building Leadership and Union Collaboration in Education

21:42

Building Teacher Potential Through Direct Engagement and Observation

23:39

Empowering Educators Through Strategic Leadership and Community Support

31:04

Fenton's Success in Education and Community Engagement

32:51

Building Leadership Capacity Through Empowerment and Clear Communication

Connect with Dr. Jim: linkedin.com/in/drjimk

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Heidie Ciesielski: https://www.fentonschools.org/

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe

Summary:

Dr. Jim discusses leadership and retention strategies with Dr.Tad Everett, superintendent of Sterling Public Schools District, as they dive into transforming school administration. With a focus on refining leadership from within, Tad shares how strategic frameworks and personal development tools led his district to improve retention rates from 79% to 94%. The conversation explores the importance of understanding and supporting team members through tailored approaches, challenging traditional investment in staff, and fostering a thriving administrative roster. Join this insightful dialogue to learn how to nurture high-performing education teams.

Key Takeaways:

• Leadership Self-Awareness: Dr. Tad Everett highlighted the importance of understanding one’s own leadership shortcomings to drive organizational change and improve retention.
• Supporting Frameworks: Developing effective frameworks like love, support, invest, and accountability can significantly improve team dynamics and retention.
• Impact of Tailored Feedback: Understanding and tailoring feedback and appreciation methods to individual preferences can improve the effective communication within leadership structures.
• Investment Strategy Analogy: Tad uses an NBA team analogy to categorize talents within an organization, investing differently based on an individual's status as an All-Star, starter, role player, or benchwarmer.

Chapters:

00:00

Transforming Leadership to Boost Retention in Sterling Schools

06:50

Improving School Leadership and Retention Through Supportive Practices

14:02

Transformative Framework for Supporting and Developing School Principals

25:10

Balancing Investment in All Stars and Developing Future Talent

30:08

The Challenges of Categorizing Employee Value in Education

34:01

Building Leadership Capability and Retaining Administrative Talent

Connect with Dr. Jim: linkedin.com/in/drjimk

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Dr. Tad Everett: https://www.sterlingpublicschools.org/

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe

Tune in as host CT sits down with Dr. Stacy Winslow, Superintendent of Derry Township School District, on the power of focused, community-driven leadership in education. Dr. Winslow shares her path from teacher to superintendent, emphasizing the importance of aligning district priorities with community values and fostering student growth through social-emotional learning and equity. This episode offers insights for leaders interested in creating impactful, student-centered environments by combining tradition with purposeful innovation.

Key Takeaways:

Balancing Tradition with Innovation

Dr. Winslow highlights the importance of respecting community traditions while adapting to modern educational needs.

Clear, Student-Centered Priorities

By focusing on social-emotional learning, equity, and collaboration, the district ensures consistent growth and support for students.

Empowering Educators through PLCs

Professional Learning Communities foster collaboration among teachers, improving teaching strategies and student outcomes.

Community-Driven Leadership

The district’s commitment to Milton Hershey’s legacy fosters a strong community bond, supporting students and staff alike.

Authenticity in Leadership

Dr. Winslow’s journey underlines the power of genuine, student-focused leadership to drive positive change.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

02:30 School District Insights

06:03 PLC Implementation

10:55 Staff Development

15:37 Leadership Journey

19:56 New Teacher Support

24:25 Superintendent Insights

29:03 Career Pathways

32:53 Future Opportunities

39:53 Final Reflections

Connect with Dr. Jim: linkedin.com/in/drjimk

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Dr. Stacy Winslow: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacy-winslow

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe

Summary:

Dr. Jim is joined by Dr. John Asplund, superintendent of Galesburg 205 district in Illinois, to explore the challenges of leading a rural, underfunded, and diverse community with a high rate of low-income families. They discuss strategic initiatives to establish a "community of wellness" by addressing basic infrastructure and student needs, leveraging local resources, and developing educator support systems. Discover how Asplund's emphasis on community engagement and creative problem-solving fostered significant improvements in school and community connectivity. Perfect for leaders aiming to drive sustainable, impactful change in education.

Key Takeaways:

• Impactful Leadership: Dr. Asplund demonstrates how focusing on essential infrastructure and basic needs can create a foundation for improved educational outcomes in under-resourced districts.
• Community Engagement: Regular community feedback and involvement were instrumental in shaping strategic initiatives and fostering district-wide improvements.
• Creative Solutions: Innovative programs like "Keisha Cares" and Thrive 205 showcase successful strategies to address food insecurity and promote staff well-being.
• Educator Development: Support mechanisms for educators, such as executive coaching and building community within schools, are crucial for retention and effectiveness.

Chapters:

00:00

Creating a Community of Wellness in Education

02:34

Adapting Leadership from Wealthy Suburbs to Diverse Rural Schools

04:39

Innovative Strategies for Building Community-Centric Education Systems

12:00

Community Support and Strategic Planning in Education

14:40

Understanding Community Challenges Through Immersion and Volunteerism

17:12

Addressing Basic Needs to Enhance Educational Outcomes

21:24

Innovative Strategies to Combat Teacher Burnout in Schools

26:29

Voluntary Passion-Driven Presentations Foster Staff Engagement

28:07

Fostering Teacher Retention Through Leadership and Engagement Strategies

31:15

Building a School Community Focused on Student and Staff Wellness

Connect with Dr. Jim: linkedin.com/in/drjimk

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Dr. John Asplund: https://www.galesburg205.org/

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe

Summary:

Join Dr. Jim Lack and Chris Rogne, superintendent of Lake Mills, Iowa Community School District, as they dive into the challenge of fostering growth in rural K-12 schools. Chris shares strategies for embedding professional development and creating effective PLCs tailored to small districts. Discover how Lake Mills overcame constraints to promote culture and growth opportunities, ensuring high expectations and positive relationships within its tight-knit community. This conversation offers valuable insights for leaders seeking to enhance educator retention and development amidst unique challenges.

Key Takeaways:

• The significance of cultivating professional growth in rural K-12 districts to boost retention and employee engagement.
• Creative restructuring of PLCs and professional development programs to be more relevant and effective in small districts.
• The impact of high expectations, positive culture, and system-wide coherence on educational success and staff satisfaction.
• The crucial role of principals as drivers of educator growth and how supportive leadership fosters an empowering workplace.
• Engagement and feedback mechanisms as tools for ongoing improvement and adaptation in educational practices.

Chapters:

00:00

Embedding Growth Opportunities in Rural K-12 School Districts

02:28

Coaching and Teaching Experiences Shape Leadership Philosophy

05:48

Leadership Development and Growth in Rural School Districts

10:01

Adapting Professional Development for Small Rural School Districts

16:51

Building School Culture Through Feedback and Leadership

22:59

Building Positive Culture and Growth in Rural School Districts

Connect with Dr. Jim: linkedin.com/in/drjimk

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Chris Rogne: https://www.lake-mills.k12.ia.us/

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe

Join host CT as he speaks with Joelle Magyar, Superintendent of Avon Lake City Schools, on community-centered leadership in education. Joelle shares her journey from teacher to superintendent, highlighting the balance of tradition, resilience-building, and modern educational practices. She explores aligning community values with school goals and the role of authenticity in leadership. This episode provides valuable insights for leaders aiming to boost student success through meaningful community engagement and innovation.

Key Takeaways:

Respecting Tradition, Embracing Progress: Joelle balances preserving Avon Lake’s deep-rooted traditions with adapting practices to meet evolving student needs.

Community-Driven Strategic Planning: Engaging over 100 community members, Joelle developed a “Portrait of a Graduate” to reflect the community’s vision for student attributes upon graduation.

Building Resilience in Students: Emphasizing resilience, Joelle focuses on helping students navigate challenges, fostering skills crucial for adulthood.

Humility in Leadership: Joelle models humility and transparency, sharing her own successes and failures to inspire growth in her team and students.

Mentorship and Professional Growth: Joelle is committed to mentoring future leaders, fostering an environment where they can learn and grow.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to Avon Lake City Schools

02:00 - Balancing Tradition with Progress

04:00 - Community-Driven Strategic Planning

07:00 - Building Resilience in Students

12:00 - Including Student Voices

15:00 - Joelle’s Leadership Journey

34:00 - Challenges as a Female Leader

39:00 - Closing Advice on Humility and Passion

4o

Connect with Dr. Jim: linkedin.com/in/drjimk

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Joelle: linkedin.com/in/joelle-magyar-087a4723

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe

Summary:

Dr. Jim chats with Dr. Jeremy Olson, superintendent of the Bemidji School District, to explore innovation in the K-12 educational landscape. They delve into striking a balance between maintaining standardized educational processes and fostering innovation within schools. Jeremy shares insights from his journey across various school sizes, discussing the importance of establishing a consistent vision, the role of feedback and communication loops, and empowering leaders to innovate within set boundaries. This episode offers valuable perspectives on achieving educational excellence through structured creativity and collaboration.

Key Takeaways:

• The K-12 education sector is filled with innovative ideas, but the challenge lies in balancing these with consistent educational practices.
• Leaders must foster an environment where feedback and dissent are encouraged, allowing innovation to thrive while maintaining a unified direction.
• Dr. Olson highlights the importance of a strategic plan to guide decisions, ensuring alignment across a district while leaving room for creative practices.
• Standardization in educational content needs to coexist with innovative teaching practices to achieve the best outcomes.

Chapters:

00:00

Innovating K-12 Education Through Total Quality Management

03:00

Building Leadership Through Trust and Open Communication

09:51

Building a Unified District Through a Culture of Excellence

12:35

Balancing Innovation and Standardization in Education

22:34

Strategic Planning and Overcoming Initiative Fatigue in Education

28:43

Balancing Structure and Innovation in Educational Leadership

Connect with Dr. Jim: linkedin.com/in/drjimk

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Dr. Jeremy Olson: https://www.bemidji.k12.mn.us/

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe

Summary:

Join Dr. Jim as he digs into innovative talent strategies with Mary Morem, Superintendent of Houston Public School District 294 in Minnesota. Discover scrappy ways to grow talent without substantial funding, leveraging local colleges, grant writing, and non-traditional teaching roles. Mary shares her unique six-year mapping strategy for long-term educational success, blending online and brick-and-mortar approaches. This episode explores how district leaders can collaborate with universities and communities to enhance their talent pipelines and adapt to the changing educational landscape.

Key Takeaways:

• Creative Talent Development: Using resources like community colleges, writing grants, and leveraging nontraditional talent pathways can help build a strong talent pipeline without a large budget.
• Building Alliances: Partnering with local colleges and creating community connections can help districts sustain a more stable talent influx for teaching positions.
• Leveraging Online Education: Utilizing a mix of online and traditional learning platforms helps address challenges in engaging students and educators alike.
• Long-Term Planning with Flexibility: Adopting a "map" approach, as opposed to fixed plans, allows educational leaders to remain adaptable and responsive to changes.

Chapters:

00:00

Scrappy Strategies for Growing Talent in Education

03:28

Creative Grant Writing and Partnerships in Education

07:06

Innovative Strategies for Growing Educational Talent Remotely

13:14

Mapping Educational Change: A Six-Year Strategic Plan

19:37

Building Educational Talent Pipelines Through Community and Collaboration

Connect with Dr. Jim: linkedin.com/in/drjimk

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Dr. Mary Morem: [email protected]

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe