Bruce Bivins: Perris Elementary School District

In this episode of School District Superheroes, Nick Telford sits down with Bruce Bivins, Superintendent of Perris Elementary School District, to discuss how true leadership and holistic education can transform a school community.Bruce shares how growing up in an adopted family built on love and service shaped his lifelong desire to create a sense of belonging. He details his unique path to education, which included coaching youth, almost becoming a firefighter, and working with highly vulnerable populations like displaced foster youth and incarcerated teens. Bivins also shares the innovative work he's doing in the Perris school district. In this conversation, you'll learn:• Why the "command and control" mindset that dominated early 2000s education is broken• How a leadership style rooted in humility, curiosity, vulnerability, and trust is more effective• Why psychological safety is the absolute foundation for student success.• Why Perris emphasizes emotional intelligence and critical problem-solving• Innovative techniques, like classroom Zen zones, and campus sensory rooms • How holistic strategies have led to decreases in suspensions and accelerated English literacy• Impact of enrichment programs like school gardens and a bike-riding program for kindergartnersTune in to hear how Superintendent Bivins is working to leave a legacy of deep care, strong relationships, and a school culture where kids and families are the ultimate winnersLearn more about Perris Elementary School District