September 13, 2023 • 27 mins
Meet Angela Britain-Smith, fondly known as ABS, the director of operations at the Metropolitan School District of Washington Township (MSD Washington Township). In our enlightening conversation with Guest Hostess and K-12 Studio Leader Anna Marie Burrell, ABS shares her journey, starting as a librarian and transitioning into a leader handling facilities management, food services, and safety. Her experiences emphasize the power of mentorship, communication, and prioritizing what's best for children.
Our discussion also reveals how a passed referendum revolutionized MSD of Washington Township. ABS enlightens us on the enormous transformations that followed, including expanded program capacities, enhanced security, new furniture, and more. ABS also discusses the challenges the district would have faced if the referendum hadn't passed. We round up with ABS underscoring the importance of equity in K-12 education, the impact of mentorship programs for students, and the vital role of self-care for mental and physical well-being. A wealth of insights awaits within this episode. So, get ready to be inspired.
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Angela Britain-Smith (01:08):
Thank you so much for the invitation to
share my journey.
As you know, I'm a girl behindthe scenes, which is where I
prefer to be.
However, as always, I'mextremely appreciative to spend
time with you, Anna Marie, andthe Schmidt team.
Anna Marie Burrell (01:24):
So tell me a little bit about yourself and
your journey to success and howyou got into a career in K-12
facilities.
Angela Britain-Smith (01:32):
Sure.
So my career started as aschool librarian and later I
became an information servicesdirector at a large inner city
high school on the east side,lawrence Township.
I was encouraged to get mybuilding administrative license
and then, a few years later,became the assistant principal
in charge of buildings andgrounds, construction projects
(01:55):
etc.
At that time we embarked on amajor renovation that included
demolition of a historical gym,renovations for a main gym,
construction of a field house,as well as many exterior
athletic improvements.
After being in that districtfor 10 years, I transitioned to
Washington Township as anassistant principal at North
Central High School, and there Iwas also in charge of buildings
(02:17):
and grounds.
Although we didn't have a lotof construction projects going
on, we did have minor projectsthat I had to have oversight on.
So then, a few years later, Iwas extremely humbled and was
hired as the director ofoperations for Washington
Township schools, and I thinkI've been the director now, for
I think I'm going on my ninth ortenth year.
Anna Marie Burrell (02:39):
Wow You've established.
With such an extensivebackground, there must have been
a good reason why you choseyour career path.
What drove you in the directionof the K-12 education?
Angela Britain-Smith (02:49):
So I always had a passion for
education.
My mom even said when I waslittle that one day I would
become a teacher.
It wasn't until high schoolwhere I found my passion for
school libraries.
I was very close to my highschool librarian at IPS Howe
High School, the Hornets, and itwas her, Mrs.
Lefler-Buer, who guided andmentored me into a career with
IPS School Library Services.
(03:10):
IPS library services waslocated in the old Coca-Cola
building on Mass Ave, which isnow known as the Bottle Works,
so it's always fun to go backand visit that building and just
kind of reflect back on what itwas like when I was there when
I was 16, 17, 18 years of age.
I stayed with IPS as aclassified employee while
(03:33):
earning my degree in secondaryeducation and then was hired as
a middle school librarian.
I eventually moved on from IPSto other districts as I wanted
to be a high school librarian,and so from there, I got my
admin license and then became anassistant principal and now the
director of operations inWashington Township schools.
Anna Marie Burrell (03:53):
I love how it starts with your mom and it
sounds like you have a lot ofpeople who believed in you and
offered a strong foundation foryou.
Who were some of your earlyinfluences and what type of
advice did they offer you?
Angela Britain-Smith (04:06):
I'm not sure where I would be if it
wasn't for my high schoollibrarian.
But also, along the way, I'vehad so many colleagues and
supervisors who are amazingmentors, who encouraged me to
continue with the schoolleadership path.
Even now, I work alongside manytalented, amazing people in the
education field, but alsowithin the construction and
design fields.
(04:27):
In regards to advice, onecommon theme has always been
communication is key and alwaysremember to always do what is
best for kids.
So, growing up, I had a strongfoundation with my parents who
always encouraged me, andespecially my dad, who always
said You know, I could doanything I wanted to as long as
(04:48):
I put mind to it.
And I always like to tell thestory about when I was first
driving and I wanted a truck andI had two brothers and they
both had Mustangs and since Iwas the girl, there was no way I
was getting a truck, and so hesaid no, I couldn't have the
(05:11):
truck.
So I ended up with a firebird,a 79 firebird, which was really
cool but it didn't allow me tobe extremely independent when it
was raining or in the rain,because it was very fast and it
slid all over the road.
But once I was established witha job and that job again was in
(05:35):
library services I went back tomy dad and I said I want my
truck and I think I was 18,going on 19 and he said okay.
So we went to the car lot andhe told the salesperson I want
to, you know, take the truck fora drive.
And so the salesperson went into get the keys and I looked at
(05:55):
my dad and I said I don't knowhow to drive a stick.
And he said oh, you'll be fine.
And I said really, I have noidea how to drive a stick.
And he continued to let me knowI would be just fine.
So of course, the salespersoncame out and my dad said she
doesn't know how to drive astick, but I know she'll be just
(06:16):
fine.
So the salesperson said okay,I'll drive it out of the lot.
And then he showed me how to doit and I did just fine and
drove it back into the lot andended up buying it.
So it was.
You know from just examples likethat that no matter what I
wanted to do, my dad wassupportive, encouraging, he
(06:39):
would ask questions, but never,ever made me feel like it was
something I couldn't do so.
I also had a very close friendwho was a librarian colleague
and she mentored me a lot aswell.
It was not my high schoollibrarian, but another librarian
that I worked with, in IPS, andwhen I finished with my degree
(07:01):
and had my first interview for aschool librarian's position, I
was extremely nervous and shekept telling me that I was going
to be just fine and I was smartand I had the skills to be able
to do this.
And she made one statement, andthat statement I've never
forgotten and it's carried methrough my entire career, and
(07:23):
that was that in the interviewshe prepared me, she said they
put their pants on the same wayyou do every single morning, and
so I remember that.
So when I struggle and Istumble and I think that it's
something I can't do, I rememberI put my pants on just like
everybody else does, and I cando this.
So had many, many fabulousmentors growing up, and then
(07:46):
through my career, like I said,I've just worked with some
amazing people and every day I'malways thankful for them and
I'm just constantly learningfrom them.
Anna Marie Burrell (07:55):
Yeah, absolutely love that and how
fondly you speak of that.
We all need positive people inour lives who believe in us.
Absolutely, yeah.
So let's talk more about todayand some of your big wins in
Washington Township.
In 2016 and 2020, WashingtonTownship passed the state's
largest referenda to date.
Angela Britain-Smith (08:17):
Yes.
Anna Marie Burrell (08:17):
Yeah, big achievement.
Can you share with ourlisteners what the purpose was
of those referenda?
Angela Britain-Smith (08:24):
Sure.
So the referendas were focusedon capital improvements as well
as operating expenses, mainlywith our facilities.
They had not undergone anymajor innovations for 25, 30
years, 30 plus years.
Both capital referendas hadfour priorities educational
capacity, safety and security,healthy learning environments
(08:45):
and also technology.
The building systems, includingfurniture and technology, were
passed through Useful Life.
They were outdated.
Safety and securityimprovements were necessary, as
well as a need to expandbuilding square footage to
enhance our teaching andlearning spaces.
Additionally, the 2020referendum had priorities for
improvements to athletics atboth the high school and the
(09:08):
middle school levels.
So you're exactly right it wasa huge achievement for
Washington Township Schools in2016.
We went out for $185 millionand obviously, a lot of planning
, and a lot of work went intothat.
Again, we were grateful for ourstakeholders who supported us,
and then we knew that when westarted to embark into 2020,
(09:31):
that we still had a lot of workto do.
There was a lot that wasuncovered that we still needed
to achieve that the $185 millionwasn't going to.
And so in 2020, obviously wehad the next referendum again an
enormous win of $285 million.
So just a great opportunity forWashington Township Schools,
(09:51):
especially for our students andour staff, and the improvements
all will carry us intogenerations to come.
Anna Marie Burrell (09:59):
So there was a lot of opportunities that
have resulted from thesuccessful passage of the
referendum.
Can you share a little bit moreabout the building projects
that resulted from that?
Angela Britain-Smith (10:07):
Yes, wow, excitement and pride for sure
within our school communities.
Our buildings have or are inthe process of going through
major transformations.
We've expanded programcapacities.
We've enhanced security throughsecured entrances, lockdown
capabilities and communicationsystems.
We've added natural lighting inour buildings, new LED interior
(10:30):
and exterior lighting, upgradedour HVAC systems, integrated
all-new furniture that providesflexibility and better functions
for teaching and learning.
In addition, athletics at themiddle school and high school
have been improved for enhancedplay and competition.
I could go on and on.
The district is extremelygrateful for the support of the
(10:52):
community and I always say ourgratitude will never be
understated.
So I always just describe it asmajor transformations.
And when you walk into abuilding that's now been
renovated and just what thatlooks like and feels like and
what it offers for teaching andlearning is, it's unbelievable
(11:14):
in terms of the difference.
Anna Marie Burrell (11:15):
Right, yeah, and something that we don't
like to talk about is what wouldhave happened if that had
passed?
Angela Britain-Smith (11:21):
Right.
So, yes, an enormousdisappointment.
And, most importantly, we wouldnot have been able to provide
the opportunities thatWashington Township students and
staff deserve.
Specifically, class sizes wouldhave potentially increased,
possible reductions of staff andtermination of academic and
support programs.
(11:42):
Challenges would have remainedwith improving those learning
environments, possible decreasein ability to recruit and retain
outstanding staff and newfamilies.
In addition, potentially anegative impact to home sales in
Washington Township.
So obviously, all of the abovewould be detrimental to any
district and so, yes, it wouldhave been an enormous
(12:05):
disappointment.
Anna Marie Burrell (12:07):
Yeah, it's a tremendous win for everyone
involved and it really could nothave happened without the
strong district leadership andthe leadership team.
As leaders, we know howimportant communication is to
overall success.
Can you elaborate on whyconsistent, transparent
communication with all of yourstakeholders is so important to
maintain maintain throughout thelife of all the projects?
Angela Britain-Smith (12:29):
Sure.
So I believe that actionthrough consistency and
communication builds trust.
It's imperative that schoolshave the support of their
community, and if they don't, Ithink that progress and
innovation and success would beimpacted.
Anna Marie Burrell (12:47):
Well, it's good that it passed, because so
many students and families'lives are now really being
positively impacted.
We see that every day as we'reout in the community.
So, as you're looking back andnow looking forward, what have
you learned from the process andwhat can you translate into
your next challenges?
Angela Britain-Smith (13:05):
People and processes matter, and
documentation of the past andcurrent is a necessity.
So it's important to staycurrent with those long range
plans, be transparent and engagewith partners such as Schmitt
Associates, who can provide thecapacity and strategies for
success.
And don't forget to celebratesuccesses along the journey.
(13:28):
Even if they seem small to you,they will be meaningful to
others.
No-transcript.
And so when it comes to thosecelebrations because we have so
much going on and it's at a, youknow, such a fast pace that
sometimes we forget to standback and reflect and to
celebrate those successes and wedo have dedication and
(13:53):
rededication ceremonies aftereach of our projects, and that's
a time that I see lots ofsmiles, it's a time that I think
we all stop and we just take abreath and just kind of take in
all of the accomplishments, andit's a time to also connect with
community past staff who mayhave retired, who come back.
(14:14):
So it's just a great joy, eventhough it's a quick ceremony
that takes place, but it isdefinitely meaningful.
And so I've learned thatsometimes you just need to slow
down, even through the process,and just reflect on how much
good there is, because asleaders, we're constantly
(14:35):
putting out the fires, and sothat sometimes becomes our focus
.
When you know, it's importantto take just a moment to step
back and say there's a lot herethat's been accomplished and
that's good, and to do thatalong the way, I think, is
healthy for everyone.
Anna Marie Burrell (14:51):
Right, yeah, that's so important and I know,
as we all work through theseprojects, we truly become a
family and you know comingtogether every once in a while
to celebrate and really rememberwhat the purpose is of these
projects for the community andthe students is important.
Angela Britain-Smith (15:09):
Yeah, I always say that, you know, we
spend more time at work and thenwe do with our friends and
families a lot of times, and so,and you know, you know, during
that referendum planning, wewere hip to hip for, you know,
hours at a time and late nights.
But now, when we look back ateverything that's been
accomplished, it feels good,right.
Anna Marie Burrell (15:32):
From all of this, are you implementing any
other efforts to ensurelong-term success?
Angela Britain-Smith (15:38):
projects.
Absolutely so.
At the start with the firstreferendum in 2016, it was the
district's goal to give back tothe community, so there was a
supplier diversity resolutionthat was signed by the school
board that would ensureengagement with diverse
suppliers and to make that apriority.
That commitment is just asstrong today.
(15:59):
The district to date hasdirected over $79 million to
local firms owned by women,minorities, veterans and the
physically challenged.
Most exciting and very proud toshare, that we have propelled
to just a little bit over $100million in commitments to date.
So $79 million, that's $79million that have been spent,
(16:21):
but we know that we've got alittle over $100 million in
commitments to date.
Additionally, supporting thedevelopment of the workforce and
construction is very importantto the district.
We've partnered with oursupplier diversity consultant,
Robin Winston, to placeWashington Township students
into internships or employmentopportunities of interest such
(16:42):
as construction, design,engineering, etc.
We're very grateful to many ofour partners who have
participated in these effortsand Anna, I know that Schmidt
Associates has providedscholarships and internship
opportunities for our students,which we are extremely
appreciative of, and I believeSchmidt even has a North Central
graduate who is currentlyinvolved in our projects.
(17:03):
Absolutely do.
Anna Marie Burrell (17:05):
That's awesome, as you're promoting
these programs and sharing theongoing information about the
referenda.
What are some of the tacticsthat you and your team have
implemented to further educatedifferent groups of people, such
as the students, the townshipresidents, parents, or district
employees?
Angela Britain-Smith (17:21):
So the projects span over a 10-year
period and we knew frombeginning beginning the wi that
communication stakeholders withour stakeholders was important.
We also knew this would beimportant for building and
maintaining trust with ourcommunity.
We have a robust constructioncapital projects website.
The website is our library forarchiving all aspects of the
(17:43):
projects, from beginning tocompletion, which includes
project timelines, designrenderings, project progress
photos and video footage andproject update presentations.
In addition, our website hostsa vendor registration portal,
which also supports our supplierdiversity program.
Any of our bid proposalopportunities related to
(18:05):
facilities and capital projectsare advertised on the website,
and we have capital projectupdates that are provided
through district communicationssuch as newsletter, social media
and also board meetings.
So in the beginning, like Isaid, it was important for us to
archive even all of ourplanning and the presentations
(18:26):
to our community so that wewould have the information to go
back and refer to, and so thatwebsite is public and all of
that information is public andit's a way for us to be
transparent and it's prettyrobust in terms of how how much
information is there.
Anna Marie Burrell (18:45):
Yeah, it absolutely is.
It's a wonderful timeline tosee where you started and then
where you are now.
Just looking around thedistrict and seeing all the
things that are happening, it'struly wonderful.
I Iwant want wto to t t now onupon equity and well-being.
We hear a lot about thesetopics in K-12 schools.
What does it mean and what dothe opportunities look like for
(19:06):
the students at WashingtonTownship?
Angela Britain-Smith (19:09):
We want our students and our community
members who are visiting ourcampuses to have a similar
experience from one school tothe next Doesn't mean that the
schools are identical.
I believe that each of theschools take on their own
personality but at the same time, there are some pieces that are
(19:30):
in place.
That is about consistency.
That also, I believe, equalssome equity, and in the
beginning of our planning, itwas important for us to have
standards, and those standardsare with our educational
specifications and then also ourdesign standards.
So the educationalspecifications has to do with
(19:52):
what makes up a learning spaceand whether or not it has maybe
a drinking fountain, or it has asink, or it has a certain
square footage, things like that.
And then our design standardsis what I refer to as everything
in back of the house, so interms of HVAC or plumbing or
(20:13):
things that you might think ofwhen you think of maintenance.
And we also started out withlooking at our Washington
Township logo and taking a lookat that in regards to our brand,
and so we did embark on a newlogo, and so, by having some
consistencies just with how weadvertise and how we market
(20:38):
ourselves, we wanted consistencyas well as with our buildings
and I believe that allows forconsistency, especially when you
have multiple elementaryschools and you have multiple
middle schools.
We didn't want one middleschool student having a
different experience than themiddle school down the road.
So when we knew that we weregonna be doing major renovations
(21:02):
or even new construction, wewanted to ensure that there was
consistency.
So we developed those ed specs,the design standards, our style
guide for our logo, et cetera,so it even comes down to signage
on our campuses so that when anelementary student or family is
visiting one elementary schoolonce they maybe move on to a
(21:24):
middle school or a differentelementary school, whatever that
might be, as they enter thatcampus it feels familiar.
Anna Marie Burrell (21:32):
I love how Washington Township looks at
everything holistically right,starting in the classrooms with
the students and then lookingoutwardly to how you can empower
and leadership can empower thestudents of Washington Township,
even with other initiativessuch as your mentoring program
for the students.
What are some of yourreflections on the importance of
(21:53):
this for the students of thedistrict?
Angela Britain-Smith (21:55):
Absolutely so.
When I worked in the schoolsand was very close to the
students, it was exciting towatch them grow and watch them
mature and think about what theywanted to do after high school
and what their future was gonnabe, and so I do believe that
it's important to be able tooffer all the different
(22:17):
opportunities that are out thereso that kids can feel what it
is gonna be like if it'ssomething that they're gonna go
into and they're gonna make acareer out of it.
So the internships are, to me,extremely important.
I'm passionate about thosebecause, obviously, if it wasn't
for my internship experiencethat I had in high school, I
(22:38):
probably wouldn't be doing whatI'm doing now, and I had that
guidance from my schoollibrarian, and so I believe that
placing students in real jobapplication type scenarios and
experiences is what's going topropel them to the next level.
Anna Marie Burrell (22:58):
Right, helping them find their spark.
Exactly yes.
So one of the things that Ireally admire about you is the
number of lives you and yourteam have changed for the better
.
As you're looking back oneverything you've accomplished,
what do you hope people will besaying about you in 10 years?
Angela Britain-Smith (23:15):
So my goal is always to leave things
better than I find it so,whether that's in my personal
life or in my career, and so,when it comes to the referendum
projects and the capitalimprovements that we're doing in
Washington Township, I believethat we're accomplishing that.
You know, we are leaving thingsbetter than what it was, and
there's no way that any of thiscould have been accomplished
(23:38):
without a great team, and I do.
I have a wonderful team inWashington Township and as well
as those that are outside ofWashington Township that makes
up that team, you know, from ourengineering and design partners
and our consultants, ourparents who volunteer and help
us out.
It's all, it's a team, and wehave amazing students and
(24:01):
families and teachers and staff,community supporters.
We have also, you know, askilled group of people who
surround us in the process tohelp us be better.
So I always say, together wecan and we will, and I do
believe that anything ispossible when everyone works
together to reach a common goal.
Anna Marie Burrell (24:20):
Yeah, absolutely.
I know you've changed my lifefor the better, and so for
working with us.
You know Schmidt Associates hasbuilt its legacy among K-12
building design, and it's one ofour favorite markets for so
many reasons.
I'm curious to know what youlike most about working in the
K-12 environment.
Angela Britain-Smith (24:40):
It's all about the kids, and so I miss
the kids every day, because whatI do now is, you know, I'm not.
I'm not surrounded by them likeI was, you know, when I was in
the school and working as alibrarian, a teacher or an
assistant principal.
But I do believe that studentsshould have equal opportunities
(25:01):
and I love being able to be apart of that process and
offering them thoseopportunities that will help
them again to excel.
And so everything that I do isI try to take it back to the
learning environment and what isbest for students and teachers.
Anna Marie Burrell (25:21):
I really appreciate everything you're
sharing with us today.
So now I have one final partingquestion for you.
From working with you all theseyears, I know and we know your
job is taxing.
We've talked a lot aboutphysical and mental well-being
with K-12 design and now youhave me wondering what you're
doing to address your own mentaland physical well-being.
(25:42):
Can you tell us that t alittle?
Angela Britain-Smith (25:44):
ure, so you're Sure, I talk about this a
lot and I remind you aboutself-care.
You do, it's extremelyimportant and it's a necessity,
and sometimes we forget to takethe time that we need for
ourselves.
But I need to practicesometimes what I preach.
But I know we can't take careof others if we don't take care
of ourselves, and I always workhard to encourage my team to do
(26:07):
the same.
And if they're not healthy,we're not a successful team.
I also remind them that familyalways comes first and we work
together to support each otherevery day, and for me it's
spending time me, with familyand being in the sun.
I love antique hunting, walking, yoga and meditation and,
course, meditation, hanging outwith my bestie, winston Anna
(26:29):
bestie estie You Winston,,winston, he's my Winston
handsome 12-pound sheepoo.
Anna Marie Burrell (26:35):
You know, I love every time you bring up
Winston and I always see howmuch he makes you smile.
So, ABS, thank you for spendingtime with me today.
I really enjoyed ourconversation.
Thank you for listening toLuminate Navigating the Unknown
through Creative Leadership.
We hope this episode hasinspired you and supplied
valuable insights into the worldof creative leadership.
Don't forget to subscribe toour podcast wherever you get
(26:57):
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Until next time, keepnavigating the unknown with
creativity and confidence.
Thank you so much for the invitation to
share my journey.
As you know, I'm a girl behindthe scenes, which is where I
prefer to be.
However, as always, I'mextremely appreciative to spend
time with you, Anna Marie, andthe Schmidt team.
Anna Marie Burrell (01:24):
So tell me a little bit about yourself and
your journey to success and howyou got into a career in K-12
facilities.
Angela Britain-Smith (01:32):
Sure.
So my career started as aschool librarian and later I
became an information servicesdirector at a large inner city
high school on the east side,lawrence Township.
I was encouraged to get mybuilding administrative license
and then, a few years later,became the assistant principal
in charge of buildings andgrounds, construction projects
(01:55):
etc.
At that time we embarked on amajor renovation that included
demolition of a historical gym,renovations for a main gym,
construction of a field house,as well as many exterior
athletic improvements.
After being in that districtfor 10 years, I transitioned to
Washington Township as anassistant principal at North
Central High School, and there Iwas also in charge of buildings
(02:17):
and grounds.
Although we didn't have a lotof construction projects going
on, we did have minor projectsthat I had to have oversight on.
So then, a few years later, Iwas extremely humbled and was
hired as the director ofoperations for Washington
Township schools, and I thinkI've been the director now, for
I think I'm going on my ninth ortenth year.
Anna Marie Burrell (02:39):
Wow You've established.
With such an extensivebackground, there must have been
a good reason why you choseyour career path.
What drove you in the directionof the K-12 education?
Angela Britain-Smith (02:49):
So I always had a passion for
education.
My mom even said when I waslittle that one day I would
become a teacher.
It wasn't until high schoolwhere I found my passion for
school libraries.
I was very close to my highschool librarian at IPS Howe
High School, the Hornets, and itwas her, Mrs.
Lefler-Buer, who guided andmentored me into a career with
IPS School Library Services.
(03:10):
IPS library services waslocated in the old Coca-Cola
building on Mass Ave, which isnow known as the Bottle Works,
so it's always fun to go backand visit that building and just
kind of reflect back on what itwas like when I was there when
I was 16, 17, 18 years of age.
I stayed with IPS as aclassified employee while
(03:33):
earning my degree in secondaryeducation and then was hired as
a middle school librarian.
I eventually moved on from IPSto other districts as I wanted
to be a high school librarian,and so from there, I got my
admin license and then became anassistant principal and now the
director of operations inWashington Township schools.
Anna Marie Burrell (03:53):
I love how it starts with your mom and it
sounds like you have a lot ofpeople who believed in you and
offered a strong foundation foryou.
Who were some of your earlyinfluences and what type of
advice did they offer you?
Angela Britain-Smith (04:06):
I'm not sure where I would be if it
wasn't for my high schoollibrarian.
But also, along the way, I'vehad so many colleagues and
supervisors who are amazingmentors, who encouraged me to
continue with the schoolleadership path.
Even now, I work alongside manytalented, amazing people in the
education field, but alsowithin the construction and
design fields.
(04:27):
In regards to advice, onecommon theme has always been
communication is key and alwaysremember to always do what is
best for kids.
So, growing up, I had a strongfoundation with my parents who
always encouraged me, andespecially my dad, who always
said You know, I could doanything I wanted to as long as
(04:48):
I put mind to it.
And I always like to tell thestory about when I was first
driving and I wanted a truck andI had two brothers and they
both had Mustangs and since Iwas the girl, there was no way I
was getting a truck, and so hesaid no, I couldn't have the
(05:11):
truck.
So I ended up with a firebird,a 79 firebird, which was really
cool but it didn't allow me tobe extremely independent when it
was raining or in the rain,because it was very fast and it
slid all over the road.
But once I was established witha job and that job again was in
(05:35):
library services I went back tomy dad and I said I want my
truck and I think I was 18,going on 19 and he said okay.
So we went to the car lot andhe told the salesperson I want
to, you know, take the truck fora drive.
And so the salesperson went into get the keys and I looked at
(05:55):
my dad and I said I don't knowhow to drive a stick.
And he said oh, you'll be fine.
And I said really, I have noidea how to drive a stick.
And he continued to let me knowI would be just fine.
So of course, the salespersoncame out and my dad said she
doesn't know how to drive astick, but I know she'll be just
(06:16):
fine.
So the salesperson said okay,I'll drive it out of the lot.
And then he showed me how to doit and I did just fine and
drove it back into the lot andended up buying it.
So it was.
You know from just examples likethat that no matter what I
wanted to do, my dad wassupportive, encouraging, he
(06:39):
would ask questions, but never,ever made me feel like it was
something I couldn't do so.
I also had a very close friendwho was a librarian colleague
and she mentored me a lot aswell.
It was not my high schoollibrarian, but another librarian
that I worked with, in IPS, andwhen I finished with my degree
(07:01):
and had my first interview for aschool librarian's position, I
was extremely nervous and shekept telling me that I was going
to be just fine and I was smartand I had the skills to be able
to do this.
And she made one statement, andthat statement I've never
forgotten and it's carried methrough my entire career, and
(07:23):
that was that in the interviewshe prepared me, she said they
put their pants on the same wayyou do every single morning, and
so I remember that.
So when I struggle and Istumble and I think that it's
something I can't do, I rememberI put my pants on just like
everybody else does, and I cando this.
So had many, many fabulousmentors growing up, and then
(07:46):
through my career, like I said,I've just worked with some
amazing people and every day I'malways thankful for them and
I'm just constantly learningfrom them.
Anna Marie Burrell (07:55):
Yeah, absolutely love that and how
fondly you speak of that.
We all need positive people inour lives who believe in us.
Absolutely, yeah.
So let's talk more about todayand some of your big wins in
Washington Township.
In 2016 and 2020, WashingtonTownship passed the state's
largest referenda to date.
Angela Britain-Smith (08:17):
Yes.
Anna Marie Burrell (08:17):
Yeah, big achievement.
Can you share with ourlisteners what the purpose was
of those referenda?
Angela Britain-Smith (08:24):
Sure.
So the referendas were focusedon capital improvements as well
as operating expenses, mainlywith our facilities.
They had not undergone anymajor innovations for 25, 30
years, 30 plus years.
Both capital referendas hadfour priorities educational
capacity, safety and security,healthy learning environments
(08:45):
and also technology.
The building systems, includingfurniture and technology, were
passed through Useful Life.
They were outdated.
Safety and securityimprovements were necessary, as
well as a need to expandbuilding square footage to
enhance our teaching andlearning spaces.
Additionally, the 2020referendum had priorities for
improvements to athletics atboth the high school and the
(09:08):
middle school levels.
So you're exactly right it wasa huge achievement for
Washington Township Schools in2016.
We went out for $185 millionand obviously, a lot of planning
, and a lot of work went intothat.
Again, we were grateful for ourstakeholders who supported us,
and then we knew that when westarted to embark into 2020,
(09:31):
that we still had a lot of workto do.
There was a lot that wasuncovered that we still needed
to achieve that the $185 millionwasn't going to.
And so in 2020, obviously wehad the next referendum again an
enormous win of $285 million.
So just a great opportunity forWashington Township Schools,
(09:51):
especially for our students andour staff, and the improvements
all will carry us intogenerations to come.
Anna Marie Burrell (09:59):
So there was a lot of opportunities that
have resulted from thesuccessful passage of the
referendum.
Can you share a little bit moreabout the building projects
that resulted from that?
Angela Britain-Smith (10:07):
Yes, wow, excitement and pride for sure
within our school communities.
Our buildings have or are inthe process of going through
major transformations.
We've expanded programcapacities.
We've enhanced security throughsecured entrances, lockdown
capabilities and communicationsystems.
We've added natural lighting inour buildings, new LED interior
(10:30):
and exterior lighting, upgradedour HVAC systems, integrated
all-new furniture that providesflexibility and better functions
for teaching and learning.
In addition, athletics at themiddle school and high school
have been improved for enhancedplay and competition.
I could go on and on.
The district is extremelygrateful for the support of the
(10:52):
community and I always say ourgratitude will never be
understated.
So I always just describe it asmajor transformations.
And when you walk into abuilding that's now been
renovated and just what thatlooks like and feels like and
what it offers for teaching andlearning is, it's unbelievable
(11:14):
in terms of the difference.
Anna Marie Burrell (11:15):
Right, yeah, and something that we don't
like to talk about is what wouldhave happened if that had
passed?
Angela Britain-Smith (11:21):
Right.
So, yes, an enormousdisappointment.
And, most importantly, we wouldnot have been able to provide
the opportunities thatWashington Township students and
staff deserve.
Specifically, class sizes wouldhave potentially increased,
possible reductions of staff andtermination of academic and
support programs.
(11:42):
Challenges would have remainedwith improving those learning
environments, possible decreasein ability to recruit and retain
outstanding staff and newfamilies.
In addition, potentially anegative impact to home sales in
Washington Township.
So obviously, all of the abovewould be detrimental to any
district and so, yes, it wouldhave been an enormous
(12:05):
disappointment.
Anna Marie Burrell (12:07):
Yeah, it's a tremendous win for everyone
involved and it really could nothave happened without the
strong district leadership andthe leadership team.
As leaders, we know howimportant communication is to
overall success.
Can you elaborate on whyconsistent, transparent
communication with all of yourstakeholders is so important to
maintain maintain throughout thelife of all the projects?
Angela Britain-Smith (12:29):
Sure.
So I believe that actionthrough consistency and
communication builds trust.
It's imperative that schoolshave the support of their
community, and if they don't, Ithink that progress and
innovation and success would beimpacted.
Anna Marie Burrell (12:47):
Well, it's good that it passed, because so
many students and families'lives are now really being
positively impacted.
We see that every day as we'reout in the community.
So, as you're looking back andnow looking forward, what have
you learned from the process andwhat can you translate into
your next challenges?
Angela Britain-Smith (13:05):
People and processes matter, and
documentation of the past andcurrent is a necessity.
So it's important to staycurrent with those long range
plans, be transparent and engagewith partners such as Schmitt
Associates, who can provide thecapacity and strategies for
success.
And don't forget to celebratesuccesses along the journey.
(13:28):
Even if they seem small to you,they will be meaningful to
others.
No-transcript.
And so when it comes to thosecelebrations because we have so
much going on and it's at a, youknow, such a fast pace that
sometimes we forget to standback and reflect and to
celebrate those successes and wedo have dedication and
(13:53):
rededication ceremonies aftereach of our projects, and that's
a time that I see lots ofsmiles, it's a time that I think
we all stop and we just take abreath and just kind of take in
all of the accomplishments, andit's a time to also connect with
community past staff who mayhave retired, who come back.
(14:14):
So it's just a great joy, eventhough it's a quick ceremony
that takes place, but it isdefinitely meaningful.
And so I've learned thatsometimes you just need to slow
down, even through the process,and just reflect on how much
good there is, because asleaders, we're constantly
(14:35):
putting out the fires, and sothat sometimes becomes our focus
.
When you know, it's importantto take just a moment to step
back and say there's a lot herethat's been accomplished and
that's good, and to do thatalong the way, I think, is
healthy for everyone.
Anna Marie Burrell (14:51):
Right, yeah, that's so important and I know,
as we all work through theseprojects, we truly become a
family and you know comingtogether every once in a while
to celebrate and really rememberwhat the purpose is of these
projects for the community andthe students is important.
Angela Britain-Smith (15:09):
Yeah, I always say that, you know, we
spend more time at work and thenwe do with our friends and
families a lot of times, and so,and you know, you know, during
that referendum planning, wewere hip to hip for, you know,
hours at a time and late nights.
But now, when we look back ateverything that's been
accomplished, it feels good,right.
Anna Marie Burrell (15:32):
From all of this, are you implementing any
other efforts to ensurelong-term success?
Angela Britain-Smith (15:38):
projects.
Absolutely so.
At the start with the firstreferendum in 2016, it was the
district's goal to give back tothe community, so there was a
supplier diversity resolutionthat was signed by the school
board that would ensureengagement with diverse
suppliers and to make that apriority.
That commitment is just asstrong today.
(15:59):
The district to date hasdirected over $79 million to
local firms owned by women,minorities, veterans and the
physically challenged.
Most exciting and very proud toshare, that we have propelled
to just a little bit over $100million in commitments to date.
So $79 million, that's $79million that have been spent,
(16:21):
but we know that we've got alittle over $100 million in
commitments to date.
Additionally, supporting thedevelopment of the workforce and
construction is very importantto the district.
We've partnered with oursupplier diversity consultant,
Robin Winston, to placeWashington Township students
into internships or employmentopportunities of interest such
(16:42):
as construction, design,engineering, etc.
We're very grateful to many ofour partners who have
participated in these effortsand Anna, I know that Schmidt
Associates has providedscholarships and internship
opportunities for our students,which we are extremely
appreciative of, and I believeSchmidt even has a North Central
graduate who is currentlyinvolved in our projects.
(17:03):
Absolutely do.
Anna Marie Burrell (17:05):
That's awesome, as you're promoting
these programs and sharing theongoing information about the
referenda.
What are some of the tacticsthat you and your team have
implemented to further educatedifferent groups of people, such
as the students, the townshipresidents, parents, or district
employees?
Angela Britain-Smith (17:21):
So the projects span over a 10-year
period and we knew frombeginning beginning the wi that
communication stakeholders withour stakeholders was important.
We also knew this would beimportant for building and
maintaining trust with ourcommunity.
We have a robust constructioncapital projects website.
The website is our library forarchiving all aspects of the
(17:43):
projects, from beginning tocompletion, which includes
project timelines, designrenderings, project progress
photos and video footage andproject update presentations.
In addition, our website hostsa vendor registration portal,
which also supports our supplierdiversity program.
Any of our bid proposalopportunities related to
(18:05):
facilities and capital projectsare advertised on the website,
and we have capital projectupdates that are provided
through district communicationssuch as newsletter, social media
and also board meetings.
So in the beginning, like Isaid, it was important for us to
archive even all of ourplanning and the presentations
(18:26):
to our community so that wewould have the information to go
back and refer to, and so thatwebsite is public and all of
that information is public andit's a way for us to be
transparent and it's prettyrobust in terms of how how much
information is there.
Anna Marie Burrell (18:45):
Yeah, it absolutely is.
It's a wonderful timeline tosee where you started and then
where you are now.
Just looking around thedistrict and seeing all the
things that are happening, it'struly wonderful.
I Iwant want wto to t t now onupon equity and well-being.
We hear a lot about thesetopics in K-12 schools.
What does it mean and what dothe opportunities look like for
(19:06):
the students at WashingtonTownship?
Angela Britain-Smith (19:09):
We want our students and our community
members who are visiting ourcampuses to have a similar
experience from one school tothe next Doesn't mean that the
schools are identical.
I believe that each of theschools take on their own
personality but at the same time, there are some pieces that are
(19:30):
in place.
That is about consistency.
That also, I believe, equalssome equity, and in the
beginning of our planning, itwas important for us to have
standards, and those standardsare with our educational
specifications and then also ourdesign standards.
So the educationalspecifications has to do with
(19:52):
what makes up a learning spaceand whether or not it has maybe
a drinking fountain, or it has asink, or it has a certain
square footage, things like that.
And then our design standardsis what I refer to as everything
in back of the house, so interms of HVAC or plumbing or
(20:13):
things that you might think ofwhen you think of maintenance.
And we also started out withlooking at our Washington
Township logo and taking a lookat that in regards to our brand,
and so we did embark on a newlogo, and so, by having some
consistencies just with how weadvertise and how we market
(20:38):
ourselves, we wanted consistencyas well as with our buildings
and I believe that allows forconsistency, especially when you
have multiple elementaryschools and you have multiple
middle schools.
We didn't want one middleschool student having a
different experience than themiddle school down the road.
So when we knew that we weregonna be doing major renovations
(21:02):
or even new construction, wewanted to ensure that there was
consistency.
So we developed those ed specs,the design standards, our style
guide for our logo, et cetera,so it even comes down to signage
on our campuses so that when anelementary student or family is
visiting one elementary schoolonce they maybe move on to a
(21:24):
middle school or a differentelementary school, whatever that
might be, as they enter thatcampus it feels familiar.
Anna Marie Burrell (21:32):
I love how Washington Township looks at
everything holistically right,starting in the classrooms with
the students and then lookingoutwardly to how you can empower
and leadership can empower thestudents of Washington Township,
even with other initiativessuch as your mentoring program
for the students.
What are some of yourreflections on the importance of
(21:53):
this for the students of thedistrict?
Angela Britain-Smith (21:55):
Absolutely so.
When I worked in the schoolsand was very close to the
students, it was exciting towatch them grow and watch them
mature and think about what theywanted to do after high school
and what their future was gonnabe, and so I do believe that
it's important to be able tooffer all the different
(22:17):
opportunities that are out thereso that kids can feel what it
is gonna be like if it'ssomething that they're gonna go
into and they're gonna make acareer out of it.
So the internships are, to me,extremely important.
I'm passionate about thosebecause, obviously, if it wasn't
for my internship experiencethat I had in high school, I
(22:38):
probably wouldn't be doing whatI'm doing now, and I had that
guidance from my schoollibrarian, and so I believe that
placing students in real jobapplication type scenarios and
experiences is what's going topropel them to the next level.
Anna Marie Burrell (22:58):
Right, helping them find their spark.
Exactly yes.
So one of the things that Ireally admire about you is the
number of lives you and yourteam have changed for the better
.
As you're looking back oneverything you've accomplished,
what do you hope people will besaying about you in 10 years?
Angela Britain-Smith (23:15):
So my goal is always to leave things
better than I find it so,whether that's in my personal
life or in my career, and so,when it comes to the referendum
projects and the capitalimprovements that we're doing in
Washington Township, I believethat we're accomplishing that.
You know, we are leaving thingsbetter than what it was, and
there's no way that any of thiscould have been accomplished
(23:38):
without a great team, and I do.
I have a wonderful team inWashington Township and as well
as those that are outside ofWashington Township that makes
up that team, you know, from ourengineering and design partners
and our consultants, ourparents who volunteer and help
us out.
It's all, it's a team, and wehave amazing students and
(24:01):
families and teachers and staff,community supporters.
We have also, you know, askilled group of people who
surround us in the process tohelp us be better.
So I always say, together wecan and we will, and I do
believe that anything ispossible when everyone works
together to reach a common goal.
Anna Marie Burrell (24:20):
Yeah, absolutely.
I know you've changed my lifefor the better, and so for
working with us.
You know Schmidt Associates hasbuilt its legacy among K-12
building design, and it's one ofour favorite markets for so
many reasons.
I'm curious to know what youlike most about working in the
K-12 environment.
Angela Britain-Smith (24:40):
It's all about the kids, and so I miss
the kids every day, because whatI do now is, you know, I'm not.
I'm not surrounded by them likeI was, you know, when I was in
the school and working as alibrarian, a teacher or an
assistant principal.
But I do believe that studentsshould have equal opportunities
(25:01):
and I love being able to be apart of that process and
offering them thoseopportunities that will help
them again to excel.
And so everything that I do isI try to take it back to the
learning environment and what isbest for students and teachers.
Anna Marie Burrell (25:21):
I really appreciate everything you're
sharing with us today.
So now I have one final partingquestion for you.
From working with you all theseyears, I know and we know your
job is taxing.
We've talked a lot aboutphysical and mental well-being
with K-12 design and now youhave me wondering what you're
doing to address your own mentaland physical well-being.
(25:42):
Can you tell us that t alittle?
Angela Britain-Smith (25:44):
ure, so you're Sure, I talk about this a
lot and I remind you aboutself-care.
You do, it's extremelyimportant and it's a necessity,
and sometimes we forget to takethe time that we need for
ourselves.
But I need to practicesometimes what I preach.
But I know we can't take careof others if we don't take care
of ourselves, and I always workhard to encourage my team to do
(26:07):
the same.
And if they're not healthy,we're not a successful team.
I also remind them that familyalways comes first and we work
together to support each otherevery day, and for me it's
spending time me, with familyand being in the sun.
I love antique hunting, walking, yoga and meditation and,
course, meditation, hanging outwith my bestie, winston Anna
(26:29):
bestie estie You Winston,,winston, he's my Winston
handsome 12-pound sheepoo.
Anna Marie Burrell (26:35):
You know, I love every time you bring up
Winston and I always see howmuch he makes you smile.
So, ABS, thank you for spendingtime with me today.
I really enjoyed ourconversation.
Thank you for listening toLuminate Navigating the Unknown
through Creative Leadership.
We hope this episode hasinspired you and supplied
valuable insights into the worldof creative leadership.
Don't forget to subscribe toour podcast wherever you get
(26:57):
your podcasts, so you never missan episode.
We love to hear your thoughtsand feedback, so feel free to
reach out to us on Facebook,Instagram, and LinkedIn at
Schmitt Associates.
Until next time, keepnavigating the unknown with
creativity and confidence.
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