In this episode of the Engaging Leadership show, host CT Leong converses with Yolanda Valdez, the superintendent of the Cutler Orosi Joint Unified School District. Valdez, who grew up in the district she now oversees, shares her unique leadership journey, insights into community engagement, and the impactful changes she has spearheaded over the past decade.

Central to the discussion is Valdez's philosophy of focusing on what can be controlled, implementing a community schools approach to support the whole child, and nurturing an educational ecosystem that promotes success for all students. Valdez elaborates on the significance of aligning district resources and personnel around a unified vision and mission, emphasizing the importance of having relentless, courageous, and resilient leaders in education. This episode is a treasure trove of insights into leadership, transformation, and community building in the education sector.

Key Takeaways:

• Community-Centered Leadership: Yolanda Valdez underscores the importance of building educational systems that serve not just students but their families and the broader community.
• Vision and Mission Alignment: Effective leadership demands a clear and continually communicated vision. At Cutler Orosi, every activity and program is aligned to target the collective educational goals.
• Support Systems: The district’s community school model offers a tiered system of supports that provides holistic assistance to students and families, ensuring they can thrive academically and personally.
• Professional Growth and Collaboration: Valdez highlights the importance of professional learning communities, coaching, and actionable feedback, ensuring that educators are supported and continuously improving.
• Resilience in Leadership: For aspiring leaders, Valdez stresses the need to be relentless, courageous, instructional leaders who are also resilient, focusing on their sphere of influence despite external challenges.

Chapters:

0:00

Transforming Lives and Communities Through Committed Educational Leadership

8:10

Comprehensive Community School Model Supporting Students and Families.

19:25

Creating Clarity and Alignment in Educational Leadership

27:41

Yolanda Valdez's Journey from Teacher to Superintendent

35:06

Relentless, Courageous, and Resilient Leadership in Education

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

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Yolanda: linkedin.com/in/yolanda-valdez-b35a9342

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

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