S6 E19: Student-Centered Leadership
October 5, 2022
Chris Potts, who is the Chief Operating Officer for the Upper Arlington City School District located in Columbus, Ohio, takes a deep dive into how the district went about getting community support during their major renovation projects just a couple of years ago.
Overview:
Chris leads the day-to-day operations of the Upper Arlington City School District. His department of talented directors oversees nutritional services, transportation, capital improvements, maintenance, grounds, and custodial operations, as well as human resources for the classified staff.
He is a student-centered leader who believes in the importance of meaningful relationships with faculty, staff, and students in order to achieve comprehensive excellence across the departments, which he leads.
Before joining Upper Arlington City School District, Chris graduated from Avon Lake High School in Avon Lake, Ohio. He received his BA in psychology from Denison University in 1998, where he also earned 4 varsity letters as a member of the basketball team and served as team captain his senior year. In 2001, Chris earned a Master’s Degree in Sport Management as well as a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from The Ohio State University.
On a personal note, Crhis and his wife Megan, a 1994 Upper Arlington graduate, reside in Upper Arlington and have three children, Natalie (17), Charlotte (15) and Ryan (13).
Meet Our Guest:
Website Links:
uaschools.org
LinkedIn
Twitter
The Host:
The Better Learning Podcast is about improving education at all levels – Schools (public, charter, private, independent), Higher Education, & Corporate/Adult Learning. The major theme is to break down the silos and learn from others doing innovative things in education. We highlight innovative programs & initiatives, lessons learned, improvements to educational space, and real-world tactics while getting a deeper understanding of the people behind the innovation. Our guests include Heads of Schools, Superintendents, Principals, Entrepreneurs, Non-profit leaders and other innovators. Hosted by Kevin Stoller, CEO of Kay-Twelve.com & author of Creating Better Learning Environments.
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.
Website – https://www.kay-twelve.local/
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/
Podcast – https://www.kay-twelve.local/podcast
If you are interested in being on the show or know someone who would be a great guest, please connect with Kevin Stoller.
Our Partners:
Kay-Twelve
kay-twelve.com
LinkedIn
Twitter
Better Learning Podcast
betterlearningpodcast.com
Association for Learning Environments (A4LE):
a4le.org
LinkedIn
twitter
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.
Better Learning Podcast Request Form
"*" indicates required fields
About the podcast
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.