EPISODE 212: School Leadership Strategies for Uniting Communities

December 26, 2024

In today's polarized society, the role of education leaders has never been more critical. As the landscape of communities becomes increasingly divided, the challenge of fostering unity within schools and districts grows more complex. Education leaders are not just administrators; they are role models, guiding students, staff, and families toward a shared vision of collaboration and respect.

Overview:

Schools are microcosms of society, reflecting the diversity and challenges of the larger world. Education leaders play a pivotal role in creating environments where students feel valued, staff feel supported, and communities feel heard. This responsibility goes beyond managing resources or enforcing policies—it’s about inspiring trust, building bridges, and fostering a culture of inclusion.

Leading in a polarized society is no small task, but the rewards are profound. By prioritizing unity and modeling inclusive leadership, education leaders can create a ripple effect that extends far beyond the walls of their schools. Together, we can transform division into understanding and build communities where every individual feels empowered to contribute.

Are you ready to take the next step in fostering unity within your educational community?

Meet Our Guest:

About Erin Kane:
Prior to serving as Superintendent, guest speaker Erin Kane was serving as the Executive Director of Schools for American Academy, a charter public school in the Douglas County School District that serves almost 3,000 students across three campuses in preschool through eighth grade. Ms. Kane led the effort to found American Academy back in 2004. Under her leadership, American Academy expanded to include additional campuses and a preschool program. In 2016, she led the Douglas County School District as the Interim Superintendent.

Ms. Kane returned to the leadership role at American Academy in the fall of 2018. Under her leadership, the district’s academic scores increased, employee morale improved, turnover decreased and the annual spending deficit was eliminated.

Prior to joining American Academy, Ms. Kane spent nearly a decade in the high technology industry in project development, project management, education, consulting and practice management. She holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration, along with an engineering degree in Applied Mathematics and Computer Science, from the University of Colorado. Ms. Kane is a Colorado native who has resided in Douglas County with her family for more than two decades.

Watch on YouTube:

https://youtu.be/n4g1mFqgfoo

Takeaways:

  • Promoting Active Listening: Encourage open dialogue where all voices are heard, ensuring that diverse perspectives are respected and valued.
  • Leading by Example: Demonstrate behaviors that reflect empathy, respect, and a commitment to unity, setting a tone for others to follow.
  • Building Collaborative Relationships: Strengthen partnerships with families, community members, and local organizations to foster a sense of shared responsibility and purpose.
  • Focusing on Shared Goals: Highlight common aspirations, such as student success and well-being, to bring stakeholders together despite differing viewpoints.

The Host:

While students may only be 20%-25% of our population today, they are 100% of our future. That is why education is one of the most important investments a country can make and the sole purpose for the existence of the Better Learning Podcast.

The Better Learning Podcast brings on valued guests that talk about ways we can improve education for our kids. Because after all, they are 100% of our future!

Kevin Stoller:
Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

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If you are interested in being on the show or know someone who would be a great guest, please visit the Better Learning Podcast website.

Our Partners:

Who made this episode possible?
Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) – https://www.a4le.org/
Education Leaders’ Organization – https://www.ed-leaders.org/
Second Class Foundation – https://secondclassfoundation.org/

Be a Guest on the Better Learning Podcast!

Do you have a favorite school-related movie that left a lasting impact? Join us as a guest on the Better Learning Podcast, where we dive into iconic films, break down memorable moments, and hand out fun awards—all while connecting them to real-world education.

From standout teachers to unforgettable one-liners, we’ll explore how these movies reflect (or totally exaggerate!) school life. Plus, you’ll get to share your own insights and experiences in education.

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About the podcast

The Better Learning Podcast combines education and entertainment in a fresh, engaging format where guests share their favorite school-related movies. Host Kevin Stoller leads dynamic conversations, exploring memorable scenes, iconic characters, and timeless lessons through award-style categories like “The John Keating Award” for standout teachers and “Realistic or Ridiculous?” to dissect school life portrayals.

With humor, analysis, and reflection, each episode celebrates the fun, flaws, and impact of these films while sparking nostalgia and insights. Whether you’re an educator, student, or movie buff, join us to relive the movies that shaped how we see school life, and share your favorites.