Conducting Schools: Navigating Noise and Staying on Tempo

It’s tempting for school leaders to keep one eye on public approval, especially when every decision seems to spark strong opinions. But true leadership, like conducting an orchestra, means focusing on the people and work right in front of you—guiding with purpose, even when your back is to the crowd. ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores why mission-driven leadership requires tuning out the noise, staying aligned with your vision, and keeping students at the heart of every decision, no matter how loud the applause—or the criticism—might get.For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.