Building Trust and Excellence through Strategic Planning and Communication with Dr. Kelley Gallt

What this episode covers

In this episode, host Iranetta Rayborn Wright sits down with Dr. Kelley Gallt, superintendent of Lake Zurich Community Unit School District 95, just outside Chicago. She shares her district’s journey with the Empower 95 strategic plan, detailing an inclusive visioning process that authentically elevates student, staff, family, and community voices. You’ll hear how student input directly shaped district direction, the steps taken to foster transparency and accountability, and the ways communication and recognition have transformed her staff culture.We also explore how Dr. Kelley Gallt’s focus on clear, consistent communication built trust during the pandemic, the impact of celebrating staff legacies through innovative tools, and the district’s impressive achievement of multiple National Blue Ribbon School designations., including recognition for closing achievement gaps.Tune in to get inspired by how one district is defining excellence, strengthening relationships, and creating opportunities for all learners, backed by the power of strong community partnerships and a supportive school board.Key Moments04:53 "Adaptive Strategic Planning Redesign"08:26 "Strengthening Communication Through Connection"09:31 Advisory Teams Enhance Communication14:10 "Building Bonds in Education"17:39 "Prioritizing Resources for Students"20:27 "Improving Strategies for Success"Why You’ll Love This Episode:Hear how Dr. Kelley Gallt is redefining strategic planning by putting students at the center of every decision. From co-creating Empower 95 with students, staff, and community members to building ongoing stakeholder engagement, she shares how authentic voice drives meaningful change.Learn how she builds a culture of trust, transparency, and accountability through consistent communication and collaborative systems. This episode highlights how evolving strategies, clear goals, and shared ownership keep districts aligned—even in times of disruption.Gain insight into her approach to staff culture and student success. From strengthening teacher-to-teacher trust to achieving Blue Ribbon recognition through continuous improvement, she shows how investing in people, partnerships, and data leads to lasting impact.Connect with Dr. Kelley GalltLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelley-gallt-693a13269 Website: https://www.lz95.org/ Follow Us OnHost LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iranetta-rayborn-wright-00053937 Company LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/ Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to IEI for more powerful conversations on educational leadership, innovation, and the stories shaping our schools.

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