IEI
Weekly Superintendent Spotlight: Uplifting News and Stories from the IEI Family
IEI : September 27, 2024
Weekly Superintendent Spotlight: Uplifting News and Stories from the IEI Family Week Seven: Community Connections
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in education leadership?
I have been inspired by various reasons, sparked by a mentor who motivated me to harness leadership opportunities outside the classroom. I found a passion for working to make a difference in students' lives and helping them reach their full potential. That passion fueled my desire to seek innovative approaches to teaching and learning and to implement those best practices that would improve the educational system, addressing issues such as equity, inclusion, access, and student success.
I am strongly committed to lifelong learning and professional development, constantly seeking new knowledge and skills to serve a learning community's most precious resource - its children. As a personal testament, a deep-seated belief in the power of education to transform lives and communities inspires me to continue to lead. By accepting the challenges of education leadership roles, I knew that I could have a positive impact on helping to improve and shape the future of education for generations to come.
Q: If you could describe your leadership style in three words, what would they be and why?
I am a servant leader. My values encompass empathy, stewardship, commitment, and, most importantly, the ability to listen and learn from others.
Q: What was your favorite IEI event?
The Spring Summit this past March.
Q: Share a quirky or surprising fact about yourself that most people wouldn't guess.
In real life, I am an introvert, but in this work, I know I must be an extrovert. So, I guess you can say that I am an omni-vert.
I have served in this role for eleven years in three states and three very different school districts and communities. In each one, I am proud of the effectiveness of my leadership teams and staff in ensuring that each student had access to opportunities that extended beyond the classroom.
Q: What's the most unusual or memorable school event you've attended during your career?
I have attended several memorable events; however, one that pulls at my heart and reminds me of my why is always attending the district Special Olympics events. The events are always filled with joy, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments of triumph despite the physical or neurological challenges.
Q: How has IEI helped you on your leadership journey?
I am new to IEI - but as an education leader, I know that professional organizations have the ability to help professionally in a variety of ways, including:
- Networking opportunities: with other education leaders provide you with valuable support and help you navigate and advance your career
- Professional development: Organizations often offer seminars, conferences, and other learning opportunities to help you enhance your skills, knowledge, and capabilities.
- Advocacy support: Education leadership organizations advocate for policies and practices that support your professional growth and the success of your school or district.
- Mentoring and coaching: Many organizations provide mentorship programs and coaching opportunities to help you develop as a leader and overcome obstacles in your career.
- Resources and tools: Access to research, best practices, and tools specific to education leadership can help you stay informed and make informed decisions in your role.
- Finally, joining a professional education leadership organization can support your growth, help you stay connected to the field, and provide you with the resources and support you need to succeed in your role.
Q: What do you believe are the biggest challenges facing education leaders today, and how do you approach overcoming them?
There are several challenges facing public education leaders today. In my opinion and experience, they include, but not in ranking order, nor conclusive:
- Teacher retention and recruitment: Recruiting and retaining qualified and effective teachers is challenging, especially in high-needs schools and districts.
- Funding and resource allocation: Public schools often face budget constraints and struggle to provide adequate resources for students, teachers, and staff.
- Technology integration: Education leaders must navigate the rapidly changing landscape of technology in education, ensuring that students have access to digital resources while also addressing issues of equity and privacy.
- Accountability and standardized testing: Education leaders must navigate the pressures of standardized testing and accountability measures, which can sometimes limit flexibility in curriculum and instruction.
- Equity and access: Ensuring that all students have equal access to quality education, regardless of socioeconomic status, race, or ability, is a major challenge for education leaders.
- Overall, as education leaders, we face a more complex set of challenges as we work to provide high-quality education for all students and improve outcomes for our communities in a post-Covid America.
Q: Outside of work, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy that rejuvenate you for the demands of your role?
I enjoy time alone, traveling, reading, and, most importantly, spending quality time with my family.
Q: Finally, if you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
Barack and Michelle Obama, because I am in awe of their accomplishments and ongoing impact on everyday people's lives.
Catching Up with Superintendent Dr. George Philhower of Eastern Hancock Schools in Charlottesville, IN
Dr. George Philhower : September 16, 2024
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in education leadership? I knew I wanted to be an educator from a young age–a choice deeply influenced by my...
Weekly Spotlight: The Power of Stable Leadership
IEI : October 11, 2024
Weekly Spotlight: The Power of Stable Leadership Week Eight: An Interview with IEI's CEO Doug Roberts on WPTF FM 107.5 & AM 680