Cultural Frameworks for K-8 Leaders to Build Equity and Cut Suspensions with Dr. Lupita Ley Hightower

In this episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Lupita Ley Hightower, the 2023 Arizona Superintendent of the Year and the 2024 Voice for Equity Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. Dr. Hightower, who recently retired from her role as the superintendent of the Tolleson Elementary School District #17, shares insights from her 28 years in education, discussing the cultural framework she built to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background.

We discuss her proudest achievements, including the creation of equitable access to arts, music, and counseling programs, and her focus on succession planning and leadership transitions. Dr. Hightower reflects on how she built a lasting legacy, the importance of strong relationships, and the power of believing in every student’s potential.

If you’re a school leader, educator, or someone passionate about making a lasting impact in education, don’t miss this inspiring conversation with Dr. Lupita Ley Hightower.

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

• Creating a Cultural Framework– Dr. Hightower explains how she built a culture that believes in the success of every child, no exceptions.

• Empowering Leadership Transitions – How Dr. Hightower mentored her successor to ensure a smooth leadership transition and continuity of vision.

• Equitable Access to Education – The importance of providing all students with access to programs such as art, music, and counseling services.

• Navigating Imperfect Leadership – Dr. Hightower shares lessons from her own leadership journey and how she overcame challenges.

• Building Strong Relationships – The value of creating strong, supportive relationships with staff, students, and the community to foster student success.

Listen to the full episode to hear how Dr. Lupita Ley Hightower has made a lasting impact on education and continues to inspire future leaders.

Listening Links:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/26Y4nEEwL9mLzrxUh17NWf
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/an-imperfect-leader-the-superintendents/id1644897856
Podcast Site: https://imperfectleader.com/podcasts/ 

Follow Our Guest Dr. Lupita Ley Hightower on:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-lupita-ley-hightower-0a849088/ 

• Tolleson Elementary School District #17: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tolleson-elementary-school-district-17/ 

Follow the Host Peter Stiepleman on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-stiepleman-76004819a/
Website: https://imperfectleader.com/
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