Perfecting the Practice

By Barbara Howard
Posted on 2/16/2026 - 6 minute read

The "heart of a servant leader," a concept I explored in my last post, is far from a mere abstraction. In my work as Director of Assessment and Accreditation, it is a practical, daily commitment, particularly within the critical area of guiding teams in the ethical application of data.

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By Kristen Nelson
Posted on 11/10/2025 - 10 minute read

In schools everywhere, there are superheroes quietly shaping student success: our paraprofessionals. They are the steady presence in the classroom who know when to step in, when to listen, and when to cheer a child on. Their work is vital, yet often underrecognized. As teachers and administrators, we have an opportunity, and a responsibility, to model the kind of servant leadership that uplifts and sustains these extraordinary professionals.

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By Dr. Sara Morgan and Robin Gomes
Posted on 10/28/2025 - 6 minute read

In the beginning, God breathed identity into man, creating us in His image and calling us to reflect his character. From the outset, scripture reveals the importance of understanding who we are in relation to him. The Bible is filled with stories and characters who wrestle with their own identities, feelings, and desires. Sometimes, these figures yielded to temptation, and other times, they demonstrated remarkable restraint and trust in God's purpose. Biblical self-awareness begins with the acknowledgment that our true identity is rooted (John 15:5) in God's creation and his redemptive work through Jesus Christ. Psalm 139 reminds us that we are "fearfully and wonderfully made,” and that God, through Jesus, sees us as His “very good” creation (Genesis 1:26-31). This truth is a gift that calls us to examine ourselves with honesty and humility, recognizing both our blemishes and our worth as loved children of God. Self-management then flows from this foundation. Learning to respond rather than react; exercising patience and self-control; and pursuing virtues such as humility and perseverance.

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By Barbara Howard
Posted on 10/7/2025 - 5 minute read

This post is about that journey—how a life-altering event shifted my direction but never diminished my purpose. It explores how vocation, mission, and vision have served as a guiding light throughout my career in educational leadership, transforming a personal dream into a lifelong commitment to servant leadership.

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Posted on 8/12/2025 - 7 minute read

In my journey as an educational leader, I have learned that real school improvement does not begin with spreadsheets or strategies– it begins with listening. Behind every data point is a student with a story. Human beings cannot be reduced to a mere number and it is our responsibility as educators to hear their stories.

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Posted on 8/8/2025 - 11 minute read

Across the country, schools are being called to address more than just academic achievement. Emerging research from organizations like the American Psychological Association highlights a surge in student anxiety and depression, along with ongoing academic disruptions and widening opportunity gaps. In response, districts are expanding support systems and investing in qualified professionals who can help students navigate both academic and emotional challenges.

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Posted on 8/8/2025 - 16 minute read

When most people think about careers in education, they picture a classroom teacher — lesson plans in hand, students at their desks, and a full school day ahead. While that image remains central to the field, it only scratches the surface of what’s possible with a Master of Arts in Education (MAEd). For those who care deeply about learning, leadership, and the impact of education at every level, an MAEd opens the door to a wide range of meaningful careers.

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Posted on 8/8/2025 - 9 minute read

Schools today are at the forefront of addressing not just academic achievement, but also the complex mental health and emotional needs of students. As districts expand services and invest in student well-being, two key roles have emerged: school counselors and school psychologists. Both make a significant impact, but they do so in different ways.

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By Dr. Sandy Mercier
Posted on 7/18/2025 - 6 minute read

Across the education profession, teacher burnout is a growing concern worldwide (Madigan et al., 2023). While teaching can be a rewarding and fulfilling career, it can also lead to significant physical and emotional exhaustion. So, what exactly is teacher burnout, and why is it important to be aware of? The following paragraphs will discuss not only this topic, but also the roles of teacher self-efficacy and servant leadership as positive approaches to support educators. 

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Posted on 7/18/2025 - 11 minute read

The future of education hinges on leaders who can inspire change, elevate student outcomes, and navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving landscape. If you’re an educator eager to make a lasting impact, you might be asking: Is an MA in Educational Leadership truly worth it?

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