Four outstanding principals from the Okaloosa County School District recently returned from a transformative experience at the gcLi Leadership Lab in Colorado, an intensive program designed to develop courageous, ethical, and student-centered leaders in education. Thanks to a generous sponsorship from the Leadership Experience Initiative (LEI), the following administrators were selected to attend:
• Lindsey Smith, Fort Walton Beach High School
• Michelle Heck, Choctawhatchee High School
• Heather Graham-Williams, Bruner Middle School
• Jason McClelland, Pryor Middle School
Lindsey Smith stated, "I am truly grateful for the members of LEI and their faith in me to have this experience in pursuit of strengthening the leadership capacity of our community. It has been an incredible week of learning, leading, and really reflecting on my impact and the impact of the teams I am blessed to work within."
Before their departure, the group met with the LEI team to prepare for the weeklong experience, which challenged participants to reflect deeply on their leadership values, build authentic relationships, and explore how to lead with greater clarity, character, and courage.
"The experience we gained from gcLi in collaboration with LEI was truly invigorating,” stated Jason McClelland. "It not only enhanced my leadership skills but also initiated a journey toward developing future student leaders. We are thrilled to empower these students to give back to our wonderful community!"
Before their departure, the group met with the LEI team to prepare for the weeklong experience, which challenged participants to reflect deeply on their leadership values, build authentic relationships, and explore how to lead with greater clarity, character, and courage.
"The experience we gained from gcLi in collaboration with LEI was truly invigorating,” stated Jason McClelland. "It not only enhanced my leadership skills but also initiated a journey toward developing future student leaders. We are thrilled to empower these students to give back to our wonderful community!"
Superintendent Marcus Chambers commended the four principals and celebrated their return, stating, "We are incredibly proud of these leaders and thankful to the Leadership Experience Initiative for making this opportunity possible. The insights and inspiration they gained will have a ripple effect across their campuses—and our district—as they continue to lead with purpose and a renewed commitment to student success."
LEI President Taylor Hood stated, "LEI believes that strong leadership is the foundation of a thriving school culture. Investing in gcLi's training for our principals and their growth will directly impact the success of our schools. In the coming year, we're excited to expand this work by involving students and empowering them to lead, contribute, and help strengthen our community."
LEI President Taylor Hood stated, "LEI believes that strong leadership is the foundation of a thriving school culture. Investing in gcLi's training for our principals and their growth will directly impact the success of our schools. In the coming year, we're excited to expand this work by involving students and empowering them to lead, contribute, and help strengthen our community."
