Being a school superintendent means constantly juggling challenges—balancing educational excellence with community expectations and navigating an increasingly complicated political environment. Like many leaders, COVID threw me into impossible situations where, no matter what decision I made, it seemed impossible to please almost anyone. I had to make sense of conflicting guidelines from local, state, and federal authorities—a scenario that, worryingly, seems to be resurfacing. That’s why genuine connections with fellow leaders are more important now than ever.
Lessons Learned in Crisis
Today's uncertainties echo the rapid changes and unpredictability of the pandemic era. During COVID, superintendents—and leaders everywhere—were expected to be anchors for their communities, even while managing overwhelming expectations. Every decision seemed destined to disappoint someone, and mixed messages from various authorities only added to the confusion and stress. The pandemic is over, but that reality hasn’t changed. However, what truly makes a difference are the bonds formed by reaching out to peers—finding comfort, a safe space to vent, and practical strategies through shared experiences. For me, those honest conversations remind me that I am not alone and often provide exactly the perspective I need at the right moment.
Embracing Vulnerability in Leadership
I know many leaders, myself included, have faced moments of doubt—that nagging feeling that, no matter how hard you try, you might not be enough. Imposter syndrome tends to hit hardest when you're making tough calls under pressure, often without all the information you need. But here’s the thing: there’s nothing wrong with acknowledging doubt or recognizing your own weaknesses.
Being open about these struggles—even when it feels risky—can actually make you stronger. Vulnerability and transparency aren’t weaknesses; they’re tools that help you move forward. I’ve been there, and I know it’s not easy. But opening up often reminds you that you're often doing better than you think, that you're not alone, and that by normalizing the struggle, you take away its power to hold you back.
Navigating a Politically Charged Environment
Clearly, leadership isn’t getting any easier. Whether you’re in education, business, or public service, you’re constantly juggling competing priorities, high (and sometimes unreasonable) expectations, and plenty of scrutiny. On top of that, working with boards, stakeholders, and governing bodies adds another layer of complexity—their expectations and governance styles can either help or make things even harder. And let’s be honest, this isn’t a temporary phase—it’s just the reality of leadership.
That’s why connecting with peers is so important. It gives you a chance to clarify or even challenge your thinking and find ways to support each other, even when you don’t see eye to eye. Sometimes, it’s just helpful to know if you're the only one feeling a certain way or if others are in the same boat. Those real, honest conversations help you tackle tough situations with new insights and, hopefully, a little more clarity and flexibility.
Building a Strong Support Network
In many leadership roles—especially in smaller organizations—it’s easy to feel isolated, burdened by unique pressures. But leadership doesn’t have to be lonely, and in some ways, isolation is a choice. A simple act of reaching out can make a difference. I recently sent a quick text to check in with a colleague and heard back that it arrived at just the right moment—a small gesture that reassured them they weren’t alone.
And it doesn’t always have to be someone in your field. Some of the best insights I’ve received have come from pastors or those in civic leadership—people who know what it’s like to make highly visible decisions and navigate the complexities of people-driven organizations. Whether it’s a short message, an invitation to lunch, or a coffee chat, these moments can spark meaningful conversations, strengthen connections, and create a sense of solidarity and support during challenging times.
A Call for Connection and Encouragement
Leadership is filled with challenges, but I’ve discovered that each setback, conflict, or trial presents an opportunity for growth when I use it to foster relationships with those who can relate. By embracing vulnerability, practicing kindness, and offering consistent support, you build meaningful relationships that not only help you move forward together but often endure long past the crisis of the day. My most lasting professional friendships have been those forged through adversity. As leaders, our jobs are complex, but we have the chance to help one another stay strong during tough times, remain empathetic, and hold on to the belief that we can still make positive changes.
Above all, let’s remember why we do this work. Amid political pressures, changing expectations, and daily challenges, it’s easy to lose sight of your core purpose. For educators, at the center of every decision, every late night, and every tough conversation are your students. They are the reason you persevere, advocate, and continuously strive for improvement. It’s important to remind ourselves—and one another—of this. Ultimately, supporting each other strengthens us as leaders and creates a brighter future for the students we serve.
If you’re feeling isolated or overwhelmed—or if someone comes to mind as you read this—reach out. Whether it’s a quick text, a lunch, or a coffee break, every connection helps build a stronger, more resilient community of leaders. If you’re not a leader yourself, consider encouraging someone who is. A simple word of appreciation or support can mean more than you realize. Leadership can feel lonely, but knowing others recognize and value your effort can make all the difference.