Beyond Academics: Supporting Students and Staff as Whole Humans in Education Leadership

In this episode of Leadership Voices, host Jacob Geller is joined by Dr. Natasha Baker, Superintendent of Norwalk–La Mirada Unified School District, for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, equity, wellness, and building systems that truly serve students and staff.Just over a year into her superintendency, Dr. Baker reflects on listening deeply to her community, setting clear academic and fiscal priorities, and leading change with intention in a district that serves two distinct cities and a richly diverse population. She shares how her background as an instructional leader, combined with advanced training in finance, shapes her approach to running a complex public system with clarity and confidence.From quarterly data reviews and expanded learning programs to adult wellness and female leadership, this conversation highlights what it takes to lead with humanity while keeping student achievement at the center.Key Moments02:09 A snapshot of the district: students, cities, and community03:30 One year in as superintendent: reflections and early priorities04:28 Board-approved focus areas and academic excellence goals05:21 Dr. Baker’s leadership journey and path into education06:43 From state leadership to system leadership as a superintendent07:34 Why earning a master’s in finance strengthened her leadership10:31 Leading with wellness for adults and students12:55 Navigating change while honoring district culture14:13 Using quarterly data reviews to drive instructional decisions17:18 Equity across two cities and diverse school communities20:48 Expanding afterschool programs through ELO-P funding23:06 Female leadership, confidence, and building a competitive skillset26:10 Advice for aspiring women leaders in education28:12 Supporting and developing leaders across the organization30:30 Working with a seven-member school board33:15 Lessons from leading in large and mid-sized districts33:42 Rapid-fire leadership questions and reflections36:19 Looking ahead: defining success for the year aheadConnect with Dr. Natasha BakerWebsite: https://www.nlmusd.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natasha-baker-ed-d-158067b Follow UsJacob Geller LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-geller-0bb133101/?originalSubdomain=caPaper LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/paperlearning/About Leadership Voices PodcastLeadership Voices is where host Jacob Geller speaks with education leaders and innovators about the future of schools, uncovering stories and strategies that create meaningful impact.Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Leadership Voices for more conversations on leadership, culture, and the future of learning.