Belong, Believe, and Become: Leadership Insights from Tim Winter

Engaging Leadership

Summary: On this episode of the Engaging Leadership Show, host CheeTung (CT), co-founder of EngageRocket, converses with Tim Winter, Superintendent of South Kitsap School District. They discuss what it means to belong, believe, and become, focusing on building schools from the inside out with the best people. Tim shares insights on the unique qualities of South Kitsap, their commitment to enhancing math and literacy education, and initiatives like multi-tiered support systems and professional learning communities.

They delve into leadership challenges, the importance of relationships, and the core values of South Kitsap, known as the SK Way, which include love people, get better every day, know your purpose, think big, and have an attitude of gratitude. Tim also reflects on his personal leadership journey, emphasizing the role mentors and relationship-building play in effective leadership.

The episode highlights practical strategies for aspiring leaders and the significance of creating a sense of belonging within educational communities.

Key Takeaways:

• Creating a Sense of Belonging: The district prioritizes creating an inclusive environment where students, staff, and the community feel they belong, which is crucial to their success.
• Building Schools from the Inside Out: Leadership development is emphasized across all roles, from bus drivers to nutrition services, ensuring everyone sees themselves as an integral part of the district’s success.
• Leadership Philosophy: Tim Winter's approach centers around vulnerability, building trust, direct praise, and effective conflict resolution to foster strong relationships and accountability.
• Continuous Improvement: Importance of daily self-reflection and striving to get better every day, aligning with the district's 'SK way' five core values.
• Mentorship and Development: Personalized approach to developing leaders, focusing on authenticity and building individual potential rather than relying on standardized programs.

Resources:

The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle

The Advantage by Patrick Lencioni

Upstream by Dan Heath

Leadership and Self-deception by The Arbinger Institute

Dare to Lead by Brene Brown

Barking to the Choir by Gregory Boyle

Win Forever by Pete Carroll

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction: Belong, Believe, and Become

00:33 Meet Tim Winter: Superintendent of South Kitsap School District

01:24 Community and Resilience: The Heart of South Kitsap

02:01 Recent Achievements and Focus Areas

05:05 Building Schools from the Inside Out

07:49 The SK Way: Core Values and Leadership

11:19 Tim Winter's Leadership Journey

13:21 Operationalizing Leadership and Building Relationships

18:56 Mentorship and Growing Leaders

30:09 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Leaders

Connect with Dr. Jim: linkedin.com/in/drjimk

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Tim Winter>: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-winter-45b550124

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda

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