Partnering with Parents to Help Students Grow: Learning from an Elementary School Principal
Summary: Join C.T. and guest Nathen Ramezane, Principal of Ponderosa Elementary School in Santa Clara Unified School District, California, as they explore leadership rooted in community connection and growth. This insightful conversation delves into Nathen’s approach to serving a diverse student body with over 30% English language learners and 15-20% special education students.
Key Takeaways:
- Empathy & Service: Nathen’s experience in the service industry and coaching informs his leadership style, emphasizing empathy, direction, motivation, and curiosity.
- Servant Leadership: He identifies as a community builder and servant leader, focusing on empowering and collaborating with staff, students, and families.
- Diverse Student Body: Ponderosa serves over 500 students, with 30% English language learners and 15–20% qualifying for special education.
- Inclusive Environment: The school prioritizes meeting the needs of the whole child through strong relationships and a collaborative staff culture.
- Multiple Feedback Channels: Nathen uses online surveys, advisory committees, principal chats, PTSA events, and classroom celebrations to gather input and foster community.
- Celebrating Diversity: Events like stay-and-play, reading/writing celebrations, and grade-level showcases bring families together and honor student achievements.
- Valuing All Voices: He believes collective intelligence leads to better solutions, ensuring all community voices are heard and considered.
- Continuous Listening: Feedback is used both to celebrate strengths and identify growth areas, with openness to constructive criticism.
- Embracing Challenges: Nathen encourages staff and students to see challenges and mistakes as opportunities for growth, fostering a culture of resilience and learning.
- Reflective Planning: School improvement goals are regularly reviewed and updated with input from leadership teams, site councils, and families.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode
00:26 Meet Nathen Ramezane: A Leader with Diverse Experience
01:14 Ponderosa Elementary: A Vibrant and Diverse Community
02:23 Leadership Challenges and Strategies
03:51 Engaging the Community: Tactics and Approaches
06:49 Vision and Goals for School Improvement
08:29 The Importance of Challenges and Growth
16:08 Data-Driven Success and Family Engagement
21:31 Influence of Service Industry on Leadership
23:11 Balancing Multiple Roles and Staying Motivated
33:27 Advice for Aspiring Leaders
Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung
Connect with Nathen Ramezane: linkedin.com/in/nate-ramezane-27125b57
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