Leadership Laps
Leadership Laps explores the journeys and stories of educational leaders within Aurora Public Schools, Colorado's most diverse school district. Like a marathon, leadership requires training, perseverance, and a long-term vision. In each episode, we'll hear from those who are helping guide our district toward #DestinationAPS, sharing their personal stories, challenges overcome, leadership lessons learned, and what keeps them motivated along the way. From superintendents to principals, district leaders to classroom innovators, these conversations reveal the passion, purpose, and people behind APS's commitment to excellence. Join us as we discover how these educational leaders pace themselves through the leadership marathon while creating positive change for our 40,000 students from 130 countries of origin.
Leadership Laps
The Kenton ROAD to Success w/ Principal Hoelscher
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Join host Jesús Rodríguez on Leadership Laps as he sits down with Drew Hoelscher, Principal of Kenton Elementary School. In his seven years leading the Kenton Roadrunners, Drew has navigated the school through significant transformation, achieving "performance" ratings on the School Performance Framework for the past two years—a first in at least a decade!
Discover the story behind Kenton's remarkable growth as Drew shares insights into the effective structures they've developed and the incredible dedication of his teaching staff. We discuss how they foster a culture where teachers thrive, leading to strong student growth (MGP) and celebrations like nominating standout teacher Ms. Gracie Binder for the superintendent's teacher appreciation video. Learn about Kenton's "ROAD to success" philosophy (Respectful, Open-minded, Accountable, Determined) and how Drew's leadership has guided the community through pre-pandemic challenges to post-pandemic achievements.
Tune in to hear about leading a school turnaround, the journey to sustained improvement, and how Kenton Elementary is paving its path toward Destination APS.