A Conversation with Dr. Edwin M. Quezada, Executive Director, Philadelphia Academy of School Leaders, PA

About Dr. Edwin M. Quezada Dr. Edwin M. Quezada has dedicated nearly 35 years to education, holding roles from teacher to superintendent. He is currently the Executive Director of the Philadelphia Academy of School Leaders. As the former superintendent of Yonkers Public Schools, Dr. Quezada led the district to become New York's highest performing district among the Big Five (New York City, Yonkers, Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo), achieving a 90% graduation rate and significantly reducing the dropout rate. He is known for fostering leadership through professional development and creating district-wide cultures of accountability and achievement. His philosophy centers on believing that all children can excel with quality instruction, a supportive community, and caring adults. Quezada co-chaired Yonkers' My Brother's Keeper Alliance, which the Obama Foundation recognized as a model for improving outcomes for boys and young men of color. He has received numerous awards for his contributions to education and community service. Dr. Quezada also supported the Yonkers Urban Leadership Academy in preparing future urban school leaders and served as president-elect of the New York State Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents. Dr. Quezada holds degrees in accounting, school counseling, and educational leadership from Herbert H. Lehman College, Fordham University, and Walden University. In his current role, he focuses on developing school and system leaders to foster environments where all students thrive. Podcast Summary In this podcast episode, Steve Barkley interviews Dr. Edwin Quezada, former Superintendent of Yonkers Public Schools and current Executive Director of the Philadelphia Academy of School Leaders. The conversation explores Dr. Quezada's journey, leadership philosophy, and his impact on education systems. Dr. Quezada emphasizes creating a collaborative culture focused on transparent goals, data-sharing, and active stakeholder engagement. He highlights the importance of aligning central office support with school leaders' needs, including funding and resources, to foster student success. Dr. Quezada discusses his work with the Academy to develop school leaders through a two-year fellowship program in his current leadership role in Philadelphia. He outlines critical leadership skills for modern principals, such as adaptive leadership, equity-driven practices, and community engagement. He stresses the growing demands on school leaders, particularly in urban settings, due to diverse student needs. Dr. Quezada underscores the importance of loving and respecting students, building community, and ensuring culturally responsive, high-quality instruction. He concludes by calling on superintendents to serve as champions for their systems and foster collaborative environments that inspire educators and administrators to excel. Main Topics Covered Leadership in Yonkers Public Schools Dr. Quezada reflects on his tenure as superintendent, emphasizing a data-driven, team-oriented approach that raised graduation rates and redefined success in a diverse district. Central Office and School Collaboration He describes the essential partnership between school leaders and central office staff, advocating for resource investment and mutual support to enhance educational outcomes. Role at Philadelphia Academy of School Leaders Dr. Quezada shares his work with the Academy, including a fellowship program to equip school leaders with skills to address today's educational challenges. Key Leadership Skills for Principals He identifies essential skills like adaptive leadership, equity focus, community engagement, and instructional expertise as foundational for effective school leadership. Unique Challenges in Urban Education The discussion highlights the intensified demands on urban school leaders due to their student populations' diverse and significant needs. The Importance of Love and Community in Education Dr. Quezada emphasizes loving students, respecting their individuality, and creating a nurturing school environment as core elements of effective leadership. Superintendents as System Champions He calls for superintendents to act as inspirational figures, foster collaboration, and promote a unified vision for their educational organizations. Conclusion This episode compellingly explores transformative leadership in education, underscoring the profound impact of collaboration, equity, and love on student success.