Getting Smart Podcast | Leadership for School Progress in Poway Unified

Poway Unified School District is located in the northern part of San Diego county and operates 25 elementary schools (K-5), one elementary & middle school combination (TK-8th), six middle schools (6-8), one continuation high school, five comprehensive high schools (9-12) and one adult school. Twenty-six schools are located in the city of San Diego; twelve schools in the city of Poway.

The District serves approximately 35,500 students and is the third-largest school district in the county. We visited Design39 Campus in Poway Unified, an innovative TK-8 school, and based on the incredible teaching & learning we saw we were curious to learn more about other efforts to promote similar educational programs across the district.

Superintendent Dr. Marian Kim-Phelps, who recently joined the Poway leadership team after serving as Superintendent of the Westminster School District south of Los Angeles in Orange County, is bringing promise and progress to Poway. Her experience in Westminster proves that she is eager to see teachers and leaders take-risks and work together to make great learning experiences happen for all students and families. Dr. Phelps has been recognized for her work in Westminster, especially for bringing technology, 1:1 devices and much needed programs for English Language Learners to the district.

We chatted with Joseph Erpelding, Principal of Design39 and Superintendent Phelps about several topics including leadership that promotes progress, empowering students and families as well as how to spread great ideas within a district. Listen as Joseph and Marian share their thoughts on leadership and how to move great ideas forward.

For more, see:

• An Innovative K-8 Human-Centered Approach at Design39
• Professional Learning: The Power of School Visits
• Innovation, Empowerment and Positive Change in San Diego Schools

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