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Addressing My IMPOSTER SYNDROME

/ Dave Eberwein / Leave a comment

When my career started, I already had two Bachelor’s degrees in Science and Education. When I became Vice-Principal, my Master’s degree in Educational Administration laid the foundation for the work that lay ahead. In both situations, I was definitely nervous when starting the job, but I felt somewhat confident with the solid preparation.

Not so much when I became Superintendent.

I was certainly excited about the new gig and was pretty sure that that I could do the job — but, there was a feeling of self-doubt that permeated my being. That was almost 7 years ago.

SUPERintendent

What does an effective Superintendent look like? What should I be doing?

  • Have a morning ritual of 5:00 am exercise followed by a nutrient-rich breakfast shake;
  • Review my daily / weekly / monthly Strategic objectives at 7:00 am to fine tune them;
  • Enter all meetings with purpose and presence;
  • Pursue my vision for the system with unwavering certainty.

Well, I do wake up every morning around 5:30 and I do try to exercise. And, YES, I make myself a healthy shake for breakfast.

Check. Check. And check.

The other qualities? Ummm … Let’s move on.

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“Why Don’t You Tweet (X?) More, Dave?”

/ Dave Eberwein / Leave a comment

A communication platform needs to be informative, timely and respectful.

Back in 2017 I thought I found one with Twitter.

I started using it in early 2017 determined to make it a significant part of my communication toolbox — a new way of connecting with others in my community on topics of interest in a way that I had not used. I wanted something that was instantaneous, as well as something where respectful dialogue could take place. Platforms such as the nightly news and periodicals provided one-way information flow. Twitter was poised to be my new two-way communication tool.

I was excited and up for the challenge.

I started out pretty strong too, but faded in my use of it over the first year. Today, in 2024, I still use Twitter …. I mean “X” … but do so sparingly. What I’ve found is that what is often presented on it as ‘fact’ is often just unsubstantiated opinion filled with negative and demeaning commentary.

That is not what I want or need from a professional communication tool.

It used to be a wonderful place to share thoughts and build understanding. And while there is still some of that within it, it is often punctuated with insults, accusations, political rhetoric and hyperbole.

I have pretty much lost interest in it as a reliable, professional communication tool.

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Leadership, Character and Congruence

/ Dave Eberwein / 3 Comments
Being ‘Character Smart’ is Key to Leadership Success

If you are in a leadership position that hires other leaders, your primary focus should be to hire people smarter than you. As Superintendent, I am in the fortunate position of having this opportunity to hire leaders smarter than me. Some might argue that’s a pretty easy target to hit — thank you for that. Although, that might explain why I’m surrounded by some pretty amazing people.

Leadership Goal: To create a leadership team with really smart people — people who push my thinking and provide the necessary conditions for us to make decisions that further the district’s mission.

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