What Makes an Effective Education Leader? Lessons From a Former Superintendent of One of the Nation’s Largest Districts

What does effective leadership look like in today’s school systems—and how do we develop it at every level?

Dr. Maria Ott, former superintendent of one of the nation’s largest public school districts and a founding member of the California Association of Latino Superintendents and Administrators (CALSA), joins hosts Dr. Leila Nuland and Dr. Mort Sherman for a candid conversation about what it truly means to lead with purpose.

Dr. Ott reflects on the personal and professional qualities that shape impactful leadership, including the power of authentic networks, the role of vulnerability in building trust, and how mentorship can help emerging leaders thrive in complex environments. 

Whether you’re in the classroom, the central office, or supporting school systems from the outside, this conversation will challenge you to think about how you show up as a leader—and how you help others do the same.

Let us know what questions you'd like answered by visiting The K-12 Change Equation website to join the conversation!

This podcast is produced by Education Elements. Real Change, Made Local. 

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