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Philosophy of Educational Leadership
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As an educational leader, I am committed to lifelong learning, building a community based on positive relationships, fostering academic growth and achievement, open communication, freedom within structure, creativity, and trust, built on a common belief and vision that all students can learn.


Lifelong Learning
“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” - John Dewey

I believe in the infinite possibilities of growth and learning for every individual. I believe in meeting students and teachers where they are at and working alongside them, in partnership, to grow, learn, develop, and change. I believe in taking one small step towards greater knowledge, deeper understanding, and lasting wisdom each day. Students can and will grow academically, behaviorally, and personally if we hold high standards for them as learners, guiding them in learning HOW to learn throughout their lives.

Connection & Communication
“No significant learning can occur without a significant relationship.” - James Comer

I believe building positive relationships with teachers, students, and other administrative colleagues is the core of enacting change, maintaining vision and focus, and ensuring that student gain the skills and knowledge to be ready for lives as successful adults. Positive relationships must be built on transparent communication, constantly seeking first to understand, and being a truly empathetic listener. A solid core of trust is established only by responding to staff and students in ways that affirm their own beliefs, inviting them into a centralized vision for learning and achievement, and being mutually dependable.

Catalyst for Change and Transformation
“If you’re not prepared to be wrong, you’ll never come up with something original.” - Sir Ken Robinson

As an educational leader, I believe that one must be able to not only manage change, but be a catalyst for innovation, transformation, and creativity. It is my job to enliven the work of teachers, affirm their ability to create, and creates spaces for innovation to be shared in structured, focused ways. The expectations for how to work to the best of each member's’ ability lie in the leader modeling those expectations, talking less and doing more, and creating opportunities for everyone to demonstrate their ability. I value change and believe that in an an environment that is exploratory, innovative, and creative there are many solutions that may result in growth. I do not fear failure, but see it as opportunities for learning. I believe in leading an organization that sees struggle and failure as a way into innovation and transformation.

The role of an educational leader is one of enormous responsibility coupled with great joy and purpose. My greatest desire is to help students move closer to a life of successful work, health, relationships, and purpose. By building a community of creative, dedicated teachers and students, I believe we can create lasting, innovative learners prepared for the 21st century world.
Jessica Garrigan
Coordinator of Instructional Technology
​​Lancaster, PA