Leadership

We are trying to get our students to be able to function in a world where digital plays a really important role. To do that, we need to be immersed in that world.

Melissa Jacobs, director of library services, New York City Department of Education, N.Y.

We should never put a student in a situation where they have to choose: Should I go to school or support my family?

Leslie Torres-Rodriguez, superintendent, Hartford Public Schools, Hartford, Conn.

My commitment to this work is truly grounded in the belief that families want to help their children be successful. But sometimes that path forward isn’t always clear.

Jenna Monley, deputy chief of family and community engagement, Philadelphia school district

The parents expect us to take care of their kids. They put a lot of trust in us, and we try to make sure we honor that.

Ben Thigpen, superintendent, Jones County Public Schools, Trenton, N.C.

I often wonder how my life would have been different as a result of adults understanding what was going on with me socially, emotionally, and having to navigate the dysfunction of our world. That’s why I’m passionate about this work.

Lateshia Woodley, assistant superintendent of student support, Kansas City, Mo.

I truly believe that having language access can make a whole difference in how a situation is going to end. … It’s transformational.

Marifer Sager, senior manager of the language-access-services and multicultural affairs department, Portland Public Schools, Portland, Ore.

Families can't always travel to you, and [the] district needs to continually find ways to think outside of the box to help all learners and their families.

Susan Gilley, executive director of federal programs and instructional technology, Harrison Public Schools, Harrison, Ark.

We’re going to take the opportunity to place the bet and say, ‘If we can provide a better experience, we think we will be able to attract and retain more students.'

Derek Richey, chief financial officer, Cleveland Metropolitan School District, Cleveland, Ohio

'All' for me means 'all.' Are we creating access for English-language learners? Are we creating access for students with disabilities?

Madeline Negrón, chief academic officer, Hartford Public Schools, Hartford, Conn.

We knew if we stuck with our core tools, we could support educators and sustain professional development on those.

Casey Rimmer, director of innovation and education technology, Union County Public Schools, Monroe, N.C.