WEP 259: Lifted to Lead: Resilience and Advocacy with Dr. Stefan Bean

This is the Wired Educator Podcast Episode 259, my interview with Dr. Stefan Bean, Superintendent of the Orange County Department of Education in California.

Dr. Bean’s story is one of the most powerful leadership journeys you will ever hear. From surviving the Vietnam War as a child refugee and overcoming polio to becoming the superintendent responsible for supporting more than 450,000 students, his story is a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact educators can have. His new book, Lifted to Lead is available NOW.

This conversation explores resilience, leadership, empathy, and the importance of shifting from a deficit mindset to an asset mindset in education. If you believe every student has potential waiting to be unlocked, this episode will inspire you.

You are going to love this episode.

Listen to the episode

Wired Educator Podcast Episode 259: Lifted to Lead: Resilience and Advocacy with Dr. Stefan Bean: Listen here: https://sites.libsyn.com/64475/wep-259-lifted-to-lead-resilience-and-advocacy-with-dr-stefan-bean-hosted-by-kelly-croy

Watch the YouTube video here: (It’s loading up right now. Subscribe and never miss.)

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About Dr. Stefan Bean

Dr. Stefan Bean has dedicated more than 28 years to serving students and communities across Southern California as a teacher, principal, and educational leader.

In June 2024, the Orange County Board of Education unanimously appointed him as the 12th Superintendent of Schools for Orange County, a role that dates back to 1889.

Dr. Bean’s leadership philosophy is deeply influenced by his personal experiences as an English language learner and a student with a disability. His journey began as a refugee during the Vietnam War when he was brought to the United States through Operation Babylift.

Today he is a passionate advocate for English learners, marginalized students, and every child who needs someone to believe in them.

His story is living proof that when educators lift students up, those students can go on to lift others.

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Lifted to Lead

Dr. Bean’s new book, Lifted to Lead, tells the incredible story of his journey from a Saigon orphanage to becoming one of the most influential educational leaders in California.

The book introduces his Lifted Leadership framework, a model that encourages leaders to build authentic relationships, cultivate hope, and unlock the potential in others.

Leadership, as Dr. Bean explains, is about helping others discover what they are capable of becoming.

Key Takeaways from the Episode

Some powerful ideas from our conversation include:

• The importance of asset-based thinking and recognizing the strengths within every student

• Why relationships are the foundation of learning and leadership

• How resilience and community support can help students overcome enormous challenges

• A preview of Dr. Bean’s LIFTED leadership framework, including the importance of listening and inspiring

• Why schools must value career and technical education alongside college pathways

• How educators can thoughtfully use Artificial Intelligence as an assistant for creativity and learning

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Words of Wisdom for Educators

One of the most powerful ideas Dr. Bean shared during our conversation was this:

Education will unlock the potential in you, but more powerful, education will unlock the potential of others through you.

Every student needs someone who believes in them.

For Dr. Bean, that person was his teacher Mr. Geisinger, who saw something special in him when others might have overlooked it.

Educators have that same opportunity every day.

You can whisper possibility into a student’s ear and change the trajectory of their life forever.

Episode Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Stefan Bean and the scope of Orange County education

01:11 Operation Babylift and Dr. Bean’s early life

03:20 The influence of his father on his path into education

04:58 The teacher who changed everything: Mr. Geisinger

08:16 Overcoming bullying and finding his voice

11:04 Advice for educators working with non-verbal students

14:02 Addressing chronic absenteeism and literacy challenges

18:15 The LIFTED Leadership Framework

23:03 Learning and leadership in the age of Artificial Intelligence

Connect and Learn More

To learn more about Dr. Stefan Bean and the Orange County Department of Education, visit:

www.OCDE.us

About the Host

Kelly Croy is the host of the Wired Educator Podcast, a speaker, author, and Director of Innovation and Instruction. Kelly works with schools and districts across the country on leadership, culture, and growth.

Kelly Croy’s website:
https://kellycroy.com

Kelly’s book, Along Came a Leader

To learn more about having Kelly Croy speak at your event, visit his website to connect.

Thank you for listening and for being part of this community. It is always a great day to be a Wired Educator.

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelly_croy
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

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]]> https://wirededucator.com/wep259/feed/ 0 https://wirededucator.com/wep253/ https://wirededucator.com/wep253/#respond Thu, 02 Oct 2025 02:28:11 +0000 kcroy https://wirededucator.com/?p=2364 An Interview with Authors Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio with Host, Kelly Croy

Wired Educator Podcast Episode 523: The Business of You — An Interview with Authors Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio

In this episode of the Wired Educator Podcast, I interview Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio, co-authors of The Business of You—a guide to treating yourself as the most important project you’ll ever work on.

Marnie went from being a high school math teacher to becoming an EdTech leader before teaming up with Nick to run a software company. Nick started as a programmer, became an executive early in his career, and later jumped into entrepreneurship with Marnie. Together, they sold their company, co-authored the award-winning Lead it Like Lasso, and now bring their experiences and lessons to students, educators, and leaders through their newest book.

Listen to our interview by clicking here or in the embed link or wherever good podcasts live.

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In our conversation, Marnie and Nick share stories and strategies to help students and educators turn leadership lessons into real-life results.

Links to Learn More About Marnie and Nick

• Puchase a copy of their books here: The Business of You and Lead it Like Lasso.

Follow Marnie and Nick’s impact on their social media platforms and website:

• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• Instagram
• Website

Topics We Cover in This Episode:

1. Lots of laughs and fun stories!
2. Leadership.
3. Why they needed to write this book – what they are hearing about high school and college students and their struggles.
4. Why people need to run their lives like a business (not in a corporate way).
5. The importance of storytelling (in interviews, college essays, and networking).
6. The value of building a personal board of advisors.
7. The key question you need to ask yourself—and your own CFO.

This is a powerful episode for anyone interested in helping students, educators, and themselves reframe leadership and personal growth in a practical, meaningful way.

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelly_croy
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

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Welcome to episode 252 of The Wired Educator Podcast!

In this episode, I interview Scott Borba, an inspiring education leader and author of The Leader You’re Not… and Why It’s Just as Important as the Leader You Are. This conversation will speak to your heart, sharpen your mind, and give you what you need to lead with more awareness this year. Scott and I connected deeply, and the wisdom he shares will benefit every educator committed to growth.

Listen by clicking here or wherever awesome podcasts live.

About Scott Borba

Scott is principal and superintendent of Le Grand Union Elementary School District in California. A recognized leader in education, he was named the NAESP National Distinguished Principal and the ACSA Superintendent/Principal of the Year.

Scott also serves on the Board of Directors for the National Association of Elementary School Principals. His book, The Leader You’re Not… and Why It’s Just as Important as the Leader You Are, focuses on self-awareness, growth in leadership, and building strong school communities.

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Mentioned in the Podcast
• The Leader You’re Not… and Why It’s Just as Important as the Leader You Are — Find it on Amazon
• Scott’s website: https://www.connectedd.org/scottb

Conferences Kelly Croy will  Be Speaking At in in the next few months:
• OASFEP Conference, October 2025
• Ohio Association of Secondary School Administrators (Administrative Assistants Conference), December 2025
• Click here to Subscribe to My Newsletter: Wired Educator Newsletter for a VERY special announcement coming this weekend!

⸻

Listen to episode 252 of The Wired Educator Podcast and discover how Scott’s work can transform your leadership this year!

Thank you for taking time from your busy week to listen to the show, level up, and make a difference in the lives of students, and remember, it’s always a great week to be a Wired Educator!

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelly_croy
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

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This is the Wired Educator Podcast Episode 251, my interview with Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper, co-authors of The Language of Behavior: A Framework to Elevate Student Success. Charle and Joshua bring incredible insight, passion, and practical strategies to help educators and leaders transform the way we view behavior, student success, and school culture.

Listen to our interview by clicking here or wherever awesome podcasts live! 

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Our conversation covers practical strategies for addressing behavior through trauma-responsive practices, creating healthier school cultures, and empowering educators to better support students.

This discussion was energizing, enlightening, and inspiring. I laughed, I learned, and I left with new tools I can put into practice right away. I know you’ll feel the same. Buckle up and enjoy this incredible conversation with Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper!

Meet Charle Peck

Charlie Peck is a global keynote speaker, educator, and co-author of The Language of Behavior as well as Improving School Mental Health: The Thriving School Community Solution. With over 20 years in education and dual master’s degrees in Education and Social Work, Charlie offers a powerful perspective as both a teacher and a clinical therapist.

Her work with adolescents and families in crisis, combined with her extensive experience in K-12 education, makes her stories both relevant and captivating. She delivers impactful professional learning sessions and keynotes that provide educators with tools they can implement immediately in their practice.

Meet Joshua Stamper

Joshua Stamper is a dedicated educator, speaker, author, and the creator of Aspire to Lead. With a rich background in teaching and school administration, Joshua draws on his own experience as a struggling student and nine years as a middle school administrator. His journey fuels his passion for creating supportive, transformative learning environments.

Order their book today!

Joshua’s new book, The Language of Behavior, equips educators with trauma-responsive strategies and alternative practices to support student success. He empowers professionals to lead with empathy, implement innovative approaches, and make meaningful change in schools and communities everywhere.

Mentioned in this Interview:

Purchase a copy of their book, The Language of Behavior: A Framework to Elevate Student Success

Charle’s website: https://www.thrivingeducator.org/

Joshua’s website: https://joshstamper.com/

Thank you for taking time from your busy week to listen to the show, level up, and make a difference in the lives of students, and remember, it’s always a great week to be a Wired Educator!

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelly_croy
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

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This is the Wired Educator Podcast episode 250, my interview with Mark Trumbo, author of The Dream Factory: Designing a Life of Purpose. Mark and I talk about how he wrote an entertaining fable to teach memorable lessons on leadership and living an awesome life. My conversation with Mark hit so many levels of awesomeness, this is an amazing interview with amazing takeaways for everyone.

Listen to my interview with Mark.

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Mark Trumbo is the author of The Dream Factory: Designing a Life of Purpose, a nationally recognized leader, speaker, and creator of The Purpose Design, a framework dedicated to helping people discover, define, and live out their true purpose. A devoted child of God, husband to Kristy, and proud father of Avery Grace, Grant Hampton, and Payton Joy, Mark’s greatest joy comes from his faith and family.

Mark’s journey to discovering his “why” began in January 2017, shortly after the birth of his son, during a season of professional demands and personal reflection. Confronted with questions about his goals, identity, and impact, he embarked on a mission to develop his most valuable asset–his purpose. Inspired by Simon Sinek’s belief that “People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it,” Mark created The Purpose Design not only to clarify his own direction but to empower others to live with intentionality and meaning.

Since then, he has shared The Purpose Design with thousands of students, coaches, professionals, and organizations, guiding them to align their actions with their deepest values. Through his work, Mark challenges audiences to reflect on one powerful question: What does your Purpose Design say about you?

Mentioned in this Episode: 

Kelly Croy on The Interview Chair Podcast with Jimmy Casas

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Purchase a copy of Mark’s awesome book, The Dream Factory: Designing a Life of Purpose

Mark Trumbo’s website: https://www.connectedd.org/marktrumbo

Follow Mark Trumbo on social media: www.x.com/MarkHTrumbo

Thank you for taking time from your busy week to listen to the show, level up, and make a difference in the lives of students, and remember, it’s always a great week to be a Wired Educator!

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelly_croy
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

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The Wired Educator Podcast: Episode 249 – “Becoming an Instructonal Leader” My Interview with Danny Steele

Click here to listen to this podcast.

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This is The Wired Educator Podcast, Episode 249: My conversation with Danny Steele on instructional leadership—and so much more.

Danny is a phenomenal leader, an inspiring author, and an all-around incredible human being. In this episode, we dive into his new book, explore what great instructional leadership really looks like in schools, and unpack the wisdom he’s sharing with educators everywhere. You’re going to love this episode.

About Danny Steele

Danny Steele worked for 31 years in education as a principal, assistant principal, teacher, coach, and assistant professor of Instructional Leadership. In 2005, Steele was recognized as the “Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year” for the state of Alabama. And in 2016, he was recognized as Alabama’s “Secondary Principal of the Year.”

He has written five books, including two with Todd Whitaker, presented at numerous state and national conferences, and spoken in school districts across the country. Steele has an undergraduate degree in History from Covenant College, a Master’s in History from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and both an Educational Specialist and an Educational Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Samford University.

He is the father of three (mostly grown) children and resides with his wife in Birmingham, Alabama.

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Mentioned in This Podcast

Danny Steele’s Website: https://www.leadershiplearningandculture.com/

Follow Danny on X: https://x.com/SteeleThoughts

Danny Steele’s Books:

• Essential Truths for Principals

• Essential Truths for Teachers

• 365 Quotes for School Leader
• 365 Quotes for Teachers

• The Total Teacher: Understanding the Three Dimensions of Effective Teaching

Thank you for taking time from your busy week to listen to the show, level up, and make a difference in the lives of students, and remember, it’s always a great week to be a Wired Educator!

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

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Building Authenticity, an Interview with Todd Nesloney

Listen to The Wired Educator Podcast, Episode 248.

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In this episode of The Wired Educator Podcast, I sit down with one of my favorite education leaders and storytellers, Todd Nesloney. Todd returns to the show to share powerful insights from his newest book, Building Authenticity: A Blueprint for the Leader Inside You.

Todd currently serves as the Director of Culture and Strategic Leadership for the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA). He is a nationally recognized educator who has been honored by the White House, John C. Maxwell, and the National School Board Association, among many others. From leading a PreK–5 campus of 775 students to co-authoring bestsellers like Kids Deserve It, Todd continues to inspire and challenge educators to lead with heart, honesty, and boldness.

In this conversation, we talk about what it really means to lead authentically, how to stay rooted in your values, and why storytelling is essential for building meaningful school culture. Whether you are a teacher, administrator, or just passionate about education, this episode will fuel your leadership journey.

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Mentioned in this Episode: 

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Wow! I interviewed Todd 200 episodes ago! If you want to hear that episode go here: https://wirededucator.libsyn.com/2016/07

This is the Wired Educator Podcast Episode 247This is a special solo episode, of just me, Kelly Croy, designed to help educators and leaders everywhere maximize their summer, rest with intention, and return to the school year feeling refreshed, focused, and inspired.

In this episode, I share a personal and powerful summer bucket list featuring 29 ideas that will help every educator create meaningful moments, reclaim energy, and do something just for themselves.

Whether you’re looking to rest, write, explore, reflect, or just feel more like yourself again, this list is for you.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

• Why rest isn’t just about sleep, it’s about soul care

• The power of small adventures and new beginnings

• How starting two books (just starting) can reset your mindset

• My favorite idea on the list and why it had to be number 29

• How to make this summer more intentional and less reactionary

This isn’t your typical “10 things to do over break” list. This is real advice from one educator to another, tested, thoughtful, and ready to make your summer amazing.

I believe great educators live great lives, and this episode is all about helping you live yours to the fullest.

Listen to Episode 247 now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Thank you for tuning in, and remember—it’s always a great week to be a Wired Educator!

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

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Don’t Call It a Smartphone Ban! Teach Self-Regulation Skills in Schools! Kids Need it. 

I know this can be a controversial topic, but this is just one perspective to many negative posts I have seen. Phone policies can be an opportunity.

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In today’s digital age, navigating the complexities of smartphone usage in schools is a significant challenge for educators and leaders. But what if we reframed the narrative? Instead of labeling it a “smartphone ban,” let’s focus on something more impactful: teaching self-regulation skills that students can carry with them for life. At Port Clinton City Schools, we’ve embraced this philosophy, and the results speak for themselves.

This approach, driven by our teachers and supported by school leadership, reflects our commitment to empowering teacher-led initiatives, is not about taking something away; it’s about giving students the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly connected world. Our own counselors have identified self-regulation as one of the primary skills needed for students’ success. In fact, one student expressed gratitude, sharing how the policy eased their mind knowing no one could send them something they’d feel pressured to check. It’s a powerful reminder that how we communicate a policy is as critical as the policy itself. Limiting something is not always a penalty, but at times, perhaps a gift. We view it as an opportunity as our state demanded policy use.

Additionally, my work, writing for the Apple Education community and presenting on how to use the settings and tools within devices to model and support self-regulation, has highlighted practical strategies like time limits on social media and games, Do Not Disturb Mode, timers, reminders, jouranl, and other built-in features. These tools empower students to manage their tech use in meaningful ways, demonstrating that self-regulation can be both taught and supported effectively.

We must also acknowledge the mounting evidence on the harm social media sites can inflict on the developing minds and mental health of students. Reports consistently show that unregulated use of social media correlates with increased anxiety, depression, and focus issues. These findings underscore the urgent need to teach and model healthy tech habits in schools.

Parental concerns about student safety are valid, but it’s important to understand that our phone regulation policies are designed with care and thoughtfulness, not as punitive measures. Schools today are equipped with numerous safety features, including School Resource Officers (SROs), secure entry systems, and emergency protocols. We also have a dedicated team of counselors, compassionate teachers, and strong leadership to ensure student well-being. Students are allowed to have their phones, during lunch but not during class. This regulation isn’t about restricting freedom but fostering engagement and focus. Our classrooms are equipped with incredible devices and technology to enhance learning, and our teachers work tirelessly to create engaging, interactive lessons. By keeping phones away during instructional time, we’re helping students develop the skills they need to focus and succeed in a world full of distractions.

Here are three actionable steps to implement this approach effectively in your school:

1. Model Self-Regulation for Students

Leadership is about setting the example. Show students what self-regulation looks like by practicing it yourself. Whether it’s designated tech-free zones in staff meetings or modeling focus during class observations, students take their cues from us. When they see adults navigating technology with balance, they’re more likely to emulate it.

2. Teach the Why

Don’t just implement rules–educate students on the importance of self-regulation. Incorporate lessons on mindfulness, focus, and the impact of constant connectivity into advisory periods or classroom discussions. Help students understand that self-regulation isn’t just a school skill; it’s a life skill that will serve them in college, the workplace, and beyond. Involve students in the process.

3. Celebrate Success Stories

Highlight the positive outcomes of your efforts. Share stories like the student who felt relief knowing their social circle couldn’t bombard them with distractions during the day. Acknowledge classrooms where focus and engagement have noticeably improved. When students and staff see the tangible benefits, buy-in becomes easier.

Leading change is often about how we frame it. By focusing on teaching self-regulation rather than banning devices, we shift from punitive measures to empowering practices. This isn’t just a win for students; it’s a win for the culture of our schools.

So let’s lead with purpose, teach with vision, and model the skills that will shape the leaders of tomorrow. Smartphones may be pervasive, but the ability to regulate their use is a skill worth mastering.

Always forward,

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

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Why Every School District Should Kick Off the Year with an Opening Day Speaker

As one school year concludes, the groundwork for an exceptional 2024-2025 school year begins.

Everyone needs some summertime to relax and rejuvenate, especially educators, but the planning for an awesome next year can’t be completely put off. There’s one event that can set the tone for an entire year: an inspiring, energizing, and unifying opening-day speaker.

A great opening day speaker should do three things:

1. Celebrate Every Role

Let’s face it, the magic of a school year doesn’t happen without a great team. Teachers are legends, and they need to be celebrated! They need to feel the support and appreciation for their work. While doing this, let’s not forget the unsung heroes of the EDU team. From the bus drivers who ensure our students arrive safely, to the cafeteria staff who provide nutritious meals, to the maintenance crew who keep our schools running smoothly, our counselors, secretaries, and EVERY single position. An opening day speaker can spotlight these contributions, making each member of the staff feel seen, valued, and integral to the school’s success. It’s a powerful way to honor and celebrate the work that often goes unnoticed. A great opening day speaker makes everyone feel proud to be on the team and feel valued.

2. Set a Positive Tone

There’s something electrifying about a well-delivered presentation from a passionate, veteran educator who wants to help others make a difference. A great opening day speaker can get everyone excited and set a positive, collaborative tone for the year. A great speaker can ignite passion, inspire new perspectives, and renew a sense of purpose (as well as get people laughing and see the joy, purpose, and fulfillment of their important roles). It’s a chance to remind educators why they chose this noble profession and to reignite their commitment to making a difference in students’ lives. Starting the year with a burst of inspiration can have a lasting impact, fostering a supportive and enthusiastic school culture.

3. Build Unity and Morale

A school is much more than a collection of classrooms and offices; it’s a community. An opening day speaker can bridge gaps between departments, bringing everyone together under a common goal. Whether you’re in transportation, maintenance, the cafeteria, counseling, or administration, everyone plays a pivotal role in the educational journey. Celebrating this unity and reinforcing the importance of each department’s contributions can boost morale and create a more cohesive and motivated team.

At the end of the day, investing in an opening day speaker is investing in the heart and soul of your school district. It’s a chance to show appreciation, inspire greatness, and foster unity. And who better to deliver this impactful message than someone who has lived and breathed education?

Bonus: Practical Skills for Life and Work

One of the hidden gems of having an opening day speaker is the chance for everyone to learn a skill or two that they can actually use in their work and their life. Imagine the power of gaining insights that help you better approach challenges, both in and out of the classroom. The opening day speaker isn’t just about motivation; they offer excellent leadership training because we are all leaders somewhere in the district. Whether you’re guiding students, managing a team, or supporting your colleagues, the practical benefits you gain from an inspiring speaker can enhance your effectiveness and enrich your daily interactions.

Meet Kelly Croy

Kelly Croy is a seasoned educator, renowned speaker, and author who has dedicated his career to uplifting and empowering educators. With a unique blend of humor, insight, and heartfelt stories, Kelly has the ability to connect with audiences and leave them feeling inspired and appreciated. Interested in making your school year unforgettable? Reach out to Kelly Croy at www.kellycroy.com and bring the spark of inspiration to your opening day.

Let’s make this upcoming school year the best one yet by celebrating every hand that contributes to shaping the future. Here’s to a year filled with joy, unity, and relentless passion for education!

Kelly Croy is the Director of Innovation and Instruction for Port Clinton City Schools and the host of the popular Wired Educator Podcast. He has author Along Came a Leader:  A Personal and Professional Guide to Leadership and he is the author and illustrator of Unthink Before Bed a children’s book on anxiety that teaches students skills in coping with anxiety, preparing for the next day, and getting a good night’s sleep. Kelly taught ELA 7 for 26 years and has been the Director of Innovation & Instruction for the past seven years. He has spoken to over 100 schools/conferences around the globe.

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

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