Superintendent Year 2 (Building Community & Connections)
One thing I have learned over the last year and some change is that connections matter. In talking to some of my colleagues we have all shared unique experiences when transitioning into the superintendent role; whether as an internal superintendent or as an external superintendent moving into a new community. When I applied to my district as superintendent I had no connections, community or family in southeast Texas. However, since I have been in my community I have truly been blessed to make connections and build relationships inside and outside of the district.
When I arrived I had an entry plan and questions that explored the district. I also purposely asked the board and district leaders who I needed to meet in the community that had influence, historical context and wisdom concerning all things in our “Small town with a Big Heart”. Initially I had 1:1 meetings with recommended community members and leaders within the community. This pushed me to more meetings with elected officials, pastors, senior citizens, and others who have a pulse on our town. These meetings provided a foundation for the work I am doing a year later. I have made some wonderful connections over my first year that have provided insight and context. I feel like I have a better understanding of how to lead, not only the district, but the people and partners within our community. I have continued building connections and partnerships that I believe will continue to positively impact our district and town.
Today I still continue to host community meetings. I meet every other month with our Silver Cougars to share with community members who no longer have students within the district. I also continue to connect with the pastors. Last year I met with our local pastors which turned out to be one of the best partnerships ever. Even now we are meeting again this year to bring our pastors together to share the work we are leading and how they can continue to partner with us. I attend the Women’s Civic Group, Chamber and Economic Development meetings. I try my best to continue the partnerships and connections that have a direct impact on our school district.
This month I am so excited for our next community event. At the end of this month we are hosting the State of the Community. This is the first time ever our community has had an event such as this. We will have our County Comissioner, Chamber President and myself come together to provide an overview of the work we are leading. This event proves to be one of our biggest opportunities to bring the entire community together to share the work taking place in and around the county and our town. I am so excited to lead this work. In my opinion, this is what it’s about. Yes, I serve as the superintendent but my role is bigger than that, as I must think about the role of the district as it relates to the entire community, businesses and more. I believe the bottom line is this; we are more than our roles and titles. I think our vision and our sight has to expand beyond our school district if we are truly going to change the trajectory of the students within our district.
The connections, relationships and partnerships made have been instrumental in the work I get to lead. For those of you who aspire to serve in this role make sure you are intentional about making connections. Get to learn what is sacred to the community and who the key players are inside and outside of the community. Also, find a few people that you can have authentic relationships with who will partner with you to ensure you navigate the journey properly. I have people who tell me about pot holes to avoid or possible reactions to an action we make take, etc. These relationships are priceless. Connections truly do matter!
Red Hat Society: The picture! These ladies are fabulous! So we have a group of ladies in the community who come together with their red hats and purple shirts and blouses. They are a gem! They share history, stories, laughter and great times. I am glad I was invited to join as an honorary member. (They told me I wasn’t old enough to be an official member). I will take it though. And yes some of these ladies are in their late 80s and early 90s. They are a hoot! I aspire to find me a group like this as I mature in age too. Just love them!
Always #InspireExcellence