A Seat at the Table
Several times a year, Superintendent Dustin Howard pulls up a chair with classified employees from across the district for breakfast and conversation.
The atmosphere is relaxed and positive, but the purpose is meaningful: to listen to the people who help keep the district’s schools and operations moving every day.
For Howard, the breakfast is an opportunity to get to know employees, hear what the district is doing well, recognize people who are making a difference, and learn where there are opportunities to improve.
Employees are selected by their supervisors to participate, giving staff from different schools, departments, and roles an opportunity to share their experiences directly with the superintendent.
They are encouraged to share concerns and suggestions openly during the breakfast. For matters they may not feel comfortable discussing in a larger group, Howard and district staff make themselves available for individual conversations afterward.
Feedback is shared with district directors and leaders, and employees’ positive contributions are recognized.
“I started these breakfasts because I believe everyone in this district deserves to be heard,”
Mr. Howard said. “Our classified staff are the backbone of our schools, and their insight helps us make this district a better place for students and staff alike.”
It’s one more way our district is working to ensure that every employee has a voice.
