Show notes
In this episode, I get to interview the superintendent of Westwood ISD, Wade Stanford. Wade is not just full of knowledge and experience but also vulnerable. We will be talking about so many twists and turns of vulnerability, listening to other stakeholders, and utilizing those processes with staff and students. From this interview, I hope we can challenge ourselves as leaders in education to think differently, put those thoughts into action, and change the thought platform we start to use.Let’s dig in and learn more about his inspiring experience and how to lead with authenticity, transparency, and vulnerability.[00:01 – 18:30] Opening SegmentLet’s welcome Wade Stanford to the show. The Flip 5! We take turns asking five GTKY questions.Want a FREE download of 25 GTKY questions or more info about us? Visit www.rclfirst.com.[18:31 – 30:10] Building Genuine and Sustainable ConnectionThe 2nd Restorative Practices Training conference.Wade shares his thoughts and opinions about the Restorative Practices Training conference.The internal drive of peace.Passion and conviction piece that causes people to move from their hearts not out of fear or compliance.Build genuine connections as an ordinary person regardless of your title.Thought process when dealing with the simple referral.[30:11 – 42:29] Leadership with Authenticity, Transparency, and Inclusivity The transparency and authenticity in creating an impactful genuine connection.The inclusivity piece.The significant role of telling our story and communicating it out.Get the right people at the table to make progress.How to make collaboration to find the best approach.Buy-in vs. ownership.The importance of gathering and creating a safe place for people to share their thoughts[42:30 – 55:54] The Thought Exchange Wade talks about the thought exchange platform.Building connection and trust with the staffsClosing the loop with vulnerability and authenticity.The importance of remembering where we come from.Create power and ownership amongst colleagues.The formula for high-level instruction on the campus.Thought exchange in the classroom between students and teachers.Utilize student and adult voices.[55:55 – 01:20:19 ] Power and PermissionSNAO (Strategies, needs, and outcomes) model.Wade shares his plan with the thought exchange platform next year.Conversation before consequences.The power and permission. Breaking barriers down.Being comfortable with sharing your struggle.[ 01:20:20 – 01:23:04] Closing SegmentI share my takeaways from the conversation.Wade shares his final words.Final thoughts and words of adviceTweetable Quotes:“Passion and conviction piece that causes people to move from their hearts not out of fear or compliance.” – Wade Stanford.“Consequences and discipline will not change behaviors, but only through practices and reflections will create changes.” – Wade Stanford.“When we bring people that aren't close to the problem, they tend to see the best solution..” – Wade Stanford.Connect with Wade via email to [email protected] or LinkedInVisit www.Rclfirst.com to join the Educator Circle Calls that happen three times a week! Join our Facebook Group for more stories and communication about our work. Want a FREE download of 25 GTKY questions? Visit www.rclfirst.com and sign up for our newsletter!