When Schools Serve Beyond the Classroom: How Community Partnerships Create New Opportunities for Students
Understanding the Bigger Role Schools Play When people think about schools, they often think about classrooms, teachers, textbooks, and students sitting at desks. Those things are at the center of education, but after spending years working in schools, I have learned that the impact of a school extends far beyond the classroom walls. Schools are […]
Managing expectations between teachers and parents: what schools need to get right and why
Why expectations matter more than most parents realize A school year looks simple from the outside. Kids show up, teachers teach, and report cards come home a few times a year. But behind the scenes, expectation setting is what turns a confusing year into a smooth one. Without a clear sense of what to expect, […]
The Relationship Advantage: Why Strong School-Community Connections Drive Student Achievement By Andrew Jordan, Vermilion County, IL
Education Is a Team Effort One of the most important lessons I have learned throughout my career in education is that schools do not succeed on their own. Student achievement is not the result of one teacher, one administrator, or one program. It is the result of people working together toward a common goal. Strong […]
The Modern Education Leader: How Principals Can Drive Culture, Innovation, and Community Engagement
Redefining What It Means to Lead a School Being an education leader today looks very different than it did even a decade ago. The role is no longer just about managing operations or handling discipline. It is about shaping culture, encouraging innovation, and building strong connections with the community. When I reflect on my own […]
Turning a Former School Into a New Start: Reflections on Oakwood Junior High
A Meaningful Opportunity for Students Recently, our community took a big step forward with the decision to sell the old Oakwood Junior High School building to Cunningham Children’s Home for use as a therapeutic day school. This project reflects a collaboration that can open new doors for students who need specialized support. I am proud […]
Ensuring Safe and Comfortable Learning: Reflections on Oakwood Grade School’s Heating Story
Maintaining a Safe School Environment As an education leader, ensuring that students have a safe and comfortable environment to learn in is always a top priority. In the past, Oakwood Grade School was in the news after some residents raised questions about the building’s heating system. While the attention was unexpected, it reminded me how […]
Developing Teacher Leaders: Proven Approaches for Education Leaders in Small Schools
Why Teacher Leadership Matters One of the most important lessons I have learned as an education leader is that teacher leadership is key to school success. In small schools, teachers are not just classroom instructors. They are mentors, role models, and innovators. Empowering them to take on leadership roles strengthens the entire school. Teacher leaders […]
Grant Writing for Small Districts: Practical Strategies That Deliver Real Results
Why Small Districts Need a Strong Grant Strategy Working in a small district has taught me that every dollar counts. We do not have large budgets or extra staff to chase funding opportunities. Yet we face the same challenges as everyone else. We need updated technology, strong academic programs, and safe facilities. Grants have become […]
The Future of School Culture: Balancing Technology, Community, and Human Connection
School culture is the heart of every educational institution. It influences how students learn, how teachers teach, and how communities engage with schools. Over the past several years, I have witnessed dramatic changes in school culture driven by technology, evolving community expectations, and the increasing importance of human connection. As a principal, my goal has […]
The Leadership Lab: How Principals Can Use School Events to Develop Teacher and Student Leaders
When most people think of school events, they picture assemblies, fundraisers, or athletic competitions. What they might not see is the incredible leadership potential these events hold. Over the years, I have learned that school events can be much more than celebrations or activities. They can serve as real-world leadership labs, providing opportunities for both […]