Season 4, Episode 6 | Jocelyn Gomez, Vanessa Cesena, Leighangela Brady Discuss Collaboration, Trust, And Inclusivity In School Leadership

Welcome to Season 4, Episode 6 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."

Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have an excellent episode featuring discussions with Jocelyn Gomez, Administrative Assistant, Vanessa Cesena, Administrative Assistant, and Leighangela Brady, Superintendent at National School District.

Introduction of Guests and Theme for the Year

• Drew Schlosberg introduces Dr. Leighangela Brady, the superintendent of the National School District, and her colleagues, Jocelyn Gomez and Vanessa Cesena.
• Dr. Leighangela Brady discusses the theme for the year, "Being in Sync," which emphasizes working together and ensuring everyone is rowing in the same direction.
• The importance of collaboration and teamwork is highlighted, with a focus on making sure everyone is on the same page.

Work Environment and Personal Touch

• Jocelyn and Vanessa share their positive experiences working with Dr. Leighangela, emphasizing her inclusivity and thoughtfulness.
• Examples of Dr. Leighangela's actions, such as baking banana bread and singing, are shared, highlighting her ability to create a fun and supportive work environment.
• The importance of having a supportive and inclusive work environment is discussed, with a focus on making work feel less like work.

Role of Admins in Supporting the Superintendent

• Jocelyn and Vanessa discuss their roles in supporting Dr. Leighangela, including managing her calendar, scheduling meetings, and ensuring communication is seamless.
• The importance of being a gatekeeper and point of contact for the district is emphasized, with a focus on keeping Dr. Leighangela informed and supported.
• The relationship between the superintendent and the board is discussed, with a focus on anticipating needs and maintaining open communication.

Building Trust and Relationships

• The importance of trust between the superintendent and her admins is highlighted, with a focus on building strong relationships.
• Dr. Leighangela shares her approach to building trust, including annual retreats and activities that encourage open communication and feedback.
• The role of the admins in providing support and feedback to the superintendent is discussed, with a focus on creating a supportive and collaborative environment.

Handling Crises and Emergencies

• The admins share their experiences handling crises, such as the 2024 floods, and the importance of staying calm and focused.
• The role of communication in managing crises is emphasized, with a focus on keeping families and staff informed and supported.
• Dr. Leighangela discusses the importance of shared and distributed leadership, allowing her admins to make decisions in her absence.

Advice for New Superintendents and Admins

• The admins provide advice for new superintendents, emphasizing the importance of regular meetings, building relationships, and creating a supportive environment.
• Dr. Leighangela shares her approach to working with admins, including making time for regular meetings and building strong relationships.
• The importance of celebrating small wins and creating a joyful work environment is discussed, with a focus on boosting morale and maintaining a positive attitude.

Final Thoughts and Reflections

• Dr. Leighangela reflects on her first day as a superintendent and the importance of having trustworthy and supportive admins.
• The admins express their gratitude for the opportunity to work with Dr. Leighangela and the impact she has had on the district and community.
• The show concludes with a focus on the importance of collaboration, trust, and building a supportive work environment.

Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged. Be sure to subscribe to the show and share with your colleagues!

The Presenting Sponsor for Season 4 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934. Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/