Political Influence & Governance

Involving stakeholders requires action on behalf of leaders.  Action in the form facilitating appropriate platform or modes of communication, building relationships, listening to understand perspectives/needs, and developing and consistently communicating the collective shared mission.  In my current position, staff and student communication is face-to-face, parent/family communication in writing or phone/text, SMEC has a Facebook online platform as well, with opportunities to grow with our social media presence.  

My current role requires frequent coordinate with social agencies in three different counties in our region, whether it be county case managers or law enforcement.  In these interactions when differences in priorities threaten to complicate processes, I have found returning to the shared mission is essential.  In any capacity, our goal is to improve outcomes for kids.  The Disability Law Center visited and monitored our level IV RESET program.  Following a tour and closed interviews with both students and staff, we received a letter complimenting the facility, the program, and "excellent rapport between staff and students".  The letter concluded, "MDLC looks forward to continued collaboration with RESET and supporting your efforts to provide a positive educational experience for all students."

Although Special Education Advisory Councils (SEAC) are special education focused, the mission and values of the constituencies and support agencies/ organizations involved in these councils benefit all and align with overall district goals.  In a SWOT analysis, the coordination of SEAC organizations cross-district would have facilitate opportunities for cross-community collaboration on behalf of SMEC students.