As a leader, I believe true empowerment comes from setting high expectations, holding others accountable with fairness, and ensuring they have the resources, guidance, and support to succeed. When people are invested in meaningful work and feel trusted to contribute, creativity and innovation flourish. My role is to help others reach new heights by providing clarity, direction, and structure—through well-defined expectations, timelines, and non-negotiables—while giving them the freedom to grow and achieve beyond what they imagined.

I also believe leadership is rooted in relationships. Developing, maintaining, and strengthening collegial partnerships with all stakeholders is essential. I practice intentional listening, seeking to understand what is spoken—and sometimes what is left unsaid—before I seek to be understood. I recognize and affirm the efforts of others, encouraging them to grow both professionally and personally. To me, authentic leadership means valuing perspectives, embracing collaboration, and honoring the trust others place in me.

At the same time, I recognize the increasing challenges that educators face today. Many of our students arrive in our schools carrying heavy burdens and in need of significant support. While we remain committed to providing a rigorous and high-quality traditional education—and while our students go on to excel academically—we also recognize the importance of educating the whole child. That means teaching character, empathy, and kindness, while helping each student reach their fullest potential, whatever form that may take. Our mission is not only to prepare students for academic success, but also to equip them with the values and resilience they need to lead meaningful lives.

Above all, I strive to be a student-centered leader. Every decision I make is guided by a single question: What is best for students? My mission—and my unwavering calling—is to cultivate an environment where both students and staff can thrive, where learning is dynamic and engaging, and where every child has access to an education that is truly second to none.

Mr. John Seybold
Superintendent

Secretary to the Superintendent, Tammy Kelley