This article by a senior leader in the California education system articulates a challenge that many leaders face. They realize that the way they interact with others is no longer viable. This often takes them into a time of personal reflection, which can be very uncomfortable at first, and which may take some courage and compassion to navigate.

Jennie Snyder is the Deputy Superintendent for Instructional Services at the Sonoma County Office of Education (SCOE) in California. She works with a team of directors, program specialists, curriculum coordinators, and classified staff, supporting 40 school districts. Her focus is on creating conditions for the learning and engagement of teachers – along with site and district administrators – so they can create transformational learning experiences for students. These are the kinds of experiences that nurture their curiosity and wonder about the world, their social and emotional well-being, and their cognitive engagement.

Located north of San Francisco, Sonoma has long been known for wine, redwoods, and long-distance commuters, but it has also recently experienced a series of traumatic events: wildfires, floods, drought, and the global pandemic. All of these have deeply affected children and schools in the area. As you’ll see in this story, these challenges have brought the need for quality leadership to the forefront, especially as a catalyst for change. Seemingly small shifts in attitudes and behavior, aligned with self-awareness and empathy, can have great personal and professional effect.

 

– Peter Senge and Art Kleiner