Dr. Don Haddad on Stability, Growth, and Community in Education

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Dr. Don Haddad, Superintendent of St. Vrain Valley Schools, to explore the strategic vision and leadership practices defining his 16-year tenure. With nearly four decades in education, Dr. Haddad shares how his unwavering commitment to public education and a strong sense of purpose has sustained his career through evolving challenges, including political pressures and the pandemic.Dr. Haddad emphasizes the importance of meaningful relationships with diverse stakeholders—from parents and students to local businesses and government leaders. He discusses how assembling a loyal, experienced leadership team has been crucial to St. Vrain’s success and longevity. The conversation highlights impressive achievements, such as St. Vrain’s 93% graduation rate and effective use of ESSER funds. Dr. Haddad reveals the district’s systems-based approach to student success, from early childhood education to extensive academic and extracurricular opportunities, including P-TECH and robotics programs.This episode provides an inspiring look at how strategic leadership, community involvement, and a relentless focus on student outcomes transform education in St. Vrain Valley Schools.Timestamps00:00 Superintendents Unplugged: Educational Leadership Podcast Launch05:45 Advice for aspiring leaders in educational transitions.07:13 Transitioning requires a holistic approach and community engagement.09:25 Effective communication ensures trust in educational systems.12:48 Long-term superintendency results in educational alignment.16:59 School activities shape character, bond opportunity 2024.19:03 School district thriving academically, socially, extracurricularly.Connect with Dr. Don HaddadLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-haddad-ed-d-622a3650Website: https://www.svvsd.org/=============================Learn more about Strategos Group: https://www.strategosgroup.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategos-group-public-affairs/Subscribe to the Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@strategospodcastnetwork=============================PODCASTS🎧 Capital Class with Adam Giery: https://www.strategosgroup.com/podcast🎧 On the Clock with Todd Dallas Lamb: https://www.strategosgroup.com/podcast-on-the-clock🎧 Swimming Upstream with Tom Luna: https://swimming-upstream.captivate.fm/listen🎧 On Balance with Dr. Rod Berger: https://www.strategosgroup.com/podcast-on-balance🎧 To the Point with Jim Horne and Doug Mesecar: https://to-the-point.captivate.fm/Produced by Old Soul: https://bit.ly/3KuYfrD=============================#educationmanagement #educationleadership #education