My Philosophy
The beliefs and principles that guide my approach to education, leadership, and creating lasting change in our schools.
“Every child can learn. Every child will learn. It's our job to find the way.”
Pillars of My Practice
These foundational beliefs shape how I approach every decision as an educational leader.
Every Student Deserves Excellence
Equity isn't about giving every student the same thing—it's about giving every student what they need to succeed. This means examining our systems, questioning our assumptions, and actively working to dismantle barriers that prevent certain students from accessing opportunities.
I believe in setting high expectations for all students while providing differentiated support. When we truly commit to equity, we don't lower the bar—we build more ladders.
Connection Before Content
Students don't care how much you know until they know how much you care. This isn't just a saying—it's backed by research and confirmed by every meaningful interaction I've had in education.
I prioritize building authentic relationships with students, families, and staff. When people feel seen and valued, they're more willing to take risks, ask for help, and push through challenges. Strong relationships are the foundation upon which all great learning is built.
Numbers Tell Part of the Story
Data is a powerful tool for identifying patterns, measuring progress, and targeting interventions. But data alone doesn't capture the full picture of who our students are and what they need.
I believe in using data to inform decisions while also honoring the qualitative insights that come from knowing students as individuals. The best decisions come from combining quantitative evidence with teacher expertise, student voice, and family input.
Always Learning, Always Growing
The best educators are lifelong learners. I model this for my staff and students by constantly seeking out new research, trying new approaches, and being willing to admit when something isn't working.
Growth requires vulnerability—the courage to acknowledge our gaps and the persistence to work through them. I foster a culture where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities and where feedback is welcomed as a gift.
My Approach to Leadership
Lead by Example
I don't ask my team to do anything I wouldn't do myself. Whether it's having difficult conversations, implementing new initiatives, or showing up for students, I believe in modeling the behaviors and mindsets I want to see.
Empower Others
My job isn't to have all the answers—it's to create conditions where everyone can contribute their best thinking. I believe in distributing leadership, building capacity, and celebrating the expertise that exists within our school community.
Stay Student-Centered
Every decision, every policy, every initiative must ultimately serve our students. When debates arise or priorities compete, I always bring it back to the question: “What's best for kids?”
Let's Talk About Education
I'm always eager to connect with fellow educators, families, and community members who share a passion for transforming education.
Start a Conversation