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
Leading People First w/Chief Joy Ross
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In this episode of Leadership Laps, we introduce Dr. Joy Ross, Aurora Public Schools' new Chief People Officer, who brings 36 years of educational experience across nine school districts to her role. Just two months into her APS tenure, Joy shares her diverse journey from working with newcomer students to serving in administration, human resources, family engagement, and higher education as both an adjunct professor and independent consultant. She discusses what drew her to Aurora Public Schools, her initial impressions of our district culture, and her vision for putting people first in educational leadership. This conversation serves as an introduction to Joy's leadership philosophy and approach as she joins our district's efforts toward #DestinationAPS, offering insights into how extensive cross-district experience shapes perspective on organizational success and employee support.