Leadership Quote: Education is the most powerful weapon, which you can use to change the world.
– Nelson Mandela, former President of South Africa
Shelby County Public Schools
I hope everyone had a fantastic Labor Day Weekend! This week, I recorded a new episode of the Growth Over Grades Podcast, where we explored the Profile of a Graduate and the importance of student defenses. Shelby County has consistently led the way in these areas. I emphasized our expanded role in the classroom: we are now tasked with teaching standards to proficiency and creating opportunities for students to practice the skills detailed in the profile through engaging and relevant classroom activities. In essence, we have a dual responsibility—to ensure proficiency in our standards while also fostering the development of profile skills in our students.
As leaders, we must equip our teachers with the resources they need to achieve both goals—ensuring proficiency in standards and fostering excellent defense of learning.
I also stressed the importance of teamwork. In education, we sometimes overlook the impact of a strong team. A high-functioning PLC or grade-level team that operates as a “true community” is essential for student success. Principals alone cannot drive student achievement without the support of dedicated teachers. Similarly, teachers rely on strong parental involvement and motivate students to progress. Success in education is a collaborative effort. When students are at the heart of every decision, positive outcomes are bound to follow.
Inspired Learning in Shelby County Public Schools
Teaching and learning have evolved significantly over the years. With our growing understanding of how the brain functions, the education profession has continually adapted to incorporate best practices. Researchers like John Hattie have provided compelling evidence on what truly enhances classroom learning. Yet, some elements remain timeless. The core principles of effective teaching are as relevant today as they have always been. Much like basketball, where the game has evolved but the fundamentals remain the same, the essentials of teaching endure.
Consider the Artisan Teacher Themes—the first six themes represent these foundational principles. They have stood the test of time and are the most extensively researched. Establishing learning objectives with success criteria (clear learning goals), employing solid formative assessments throughout instruction (overt responses and diagnosis), and ensuring that all classroom activities align with the learning objectives (congruency) are just as crucial today as they were when Horace Mann first helped shape the public school system.
Inspired living takes place in the classroom, on the football field, running cross country, forging strong friendships and relationships, and showing social responsibility daily. We are proud of our students and staff who model the way.
This weekend, Shelby County High School Athletics inducted new members into their Hall of Fame. This recognition thanks those who poured their time and talents into athletics and serves as a chance to build role models for future generations.
Congratulations to Candice Wiley Iceman, AJ Slaughter, Coach Jim Wright, Stacey Eden, and the 1984 Track Team.
