Title: “Exploring Leadership Styles in Education – School Story Podcast Transcript”
Hosts: Stewart Hudnall and Spencer Campbell
Transcript:
Stewart Hudnall: Welcome back to School Story, where educational leaders gather to share, learn, and grow. I’m Stewart Hudnall. Today, we’re exploring leadership styles and finding your unique approach in educational leadership.
Spencer Campbell: Thank you, Stewart, for having me. Today’s topic is vital: understanding and identifying your leadership style.
Stewart Hudnall: So, Spencer, how do you discover your leadership style? Is it an innate thing, or do you take quizzes to find out?
Spencer Campbell: Great question, Stewart. Leadership evolves over time. The administrator I began as is very different from who I am today. Leadership style changes based on context and situation. In education, it’s about inspiring change, championing innovation, and being a support pillar. Look at leaders like Jamie Escalante from East LA, known for fostering an environment where innovative ideas thrive.
Stewart Hudnall: I agree, Spencer. Leadership in education is beyond managing curriculum or finances; it’s about inspiring and motivating. But how did you find your educational leadership philosophy?
Spencer Campbell: It changes over time and is situational. Core values influence it. My style varies based on the decision’s outcome. For example, I’m stern when core values are at stake. There are various leadership styles like Visionary, Affiliative, Directive, Democratic, Pacesetting, and Coaching.
Stewart Hudnall: That’s interesting. What tools or quizzes would you recommend for identifying these styles?
Spencer Campbell: There are many, like the DISC personality assessment, which focuses on Drive, Influence, Clarity, and Support. Deloitte also has a business chemistry connected to educational leadership.
Stewart Hudnall: Absolutely. Leadership styles like Transformational, Instructional, and Servant Leadership are crucial. Transformational leaders set high expectations, instructional leaders focus on teaching and learning processes, and servant leaders prioritize team growth and well-being.
Spencer Campbell: True. It also depends on your team composition and community context. Your leadership style adapts based on the teachers, administrators, and school community you work with.
Stewart Hudnall: Yes, and personal experiences shape your style. I remember specific instances where I learned what to do and what not to do as a leader.
Spencer Campbell: Agreed. Feedback is essential. Sometimes, you learn more from ineffective leaders. Knowing what works and how it’s perceived is invaluable.
Stewart Hudnall: Let’s discuss some case studies to illustrate different leadership styles.
Spencer Campbell: Sure. For instance, Daisy Dy from St. Paul High School used an instructional leadership style to address challenges in a rural school, enhancing teaching and learning processes.
Stewart Hudnall: Another example is Ron Clark of the Ron Clark Academy, known for his transformational and instructional leadership.
Spencer Campbell: Leaders must create sustainable systems that outlast their tenure. It’s about building a culture that continues beyond individual leaders.
Stewart Hudnall: Absolutely. We’ll also be discussing books and resources to help future leaders.
Spencer Campbell: Books like “Dare to Lead” by Brené Brown and “Coherence” by Michael Fullan are foundational texts for educational leadership.
Stewart Hudnall: Other great reads include “Lead Like a Pirate” for creating dynamic learning environments and “Leadership Styles” for a broader understanding of different approaches.
Spencer Campbell: Remember, leadership in education is always evolving. Being adaptable to changing environments, students, and staff is key.
Stewart Hudnall: Thanks for joining us today. If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network. Join our School Story community on social media for more discussions. Until next time, keep leading, inspiring, and making a difference in education.