Description

In this episode of ISS EDU Learn Ask Me Anything the focus is on transitioning from teaching to leadership roles in international K-12 schools. Our guest, Jessica Gilway, Executive Director at Inter American Academy, shares her journey and insights into overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities in leadership. Jessica emphasizes the importance of mentorship, visibility, and saying "yes" to opportunities as key factors in her career progression. She also discusses the significance of building a network and being authentic in leadership roles. 

Jessica also highlights the challenges of balancing personal and professional life, especially after becoming a parent, and the need for self-advocacy and mindfulness. She shares her experiences of leading accreditation teams and the importance of being visible in school-wide roles to advance in leadership. The episode concludes with Jessica encouraging educators to seek mentorship, attend workshops, and embrace opportunities to grow and be seen in leadership capacities. 

Episode Highlights 

• 00:02:02 - Introduction of the episode's topic: transitioning to leadership. 

• 00:02:30 - Jessica Gilway's introduction and background. 

• 00:03:29 - Discussion on qualifications for head of school roles. 

• 00:05:10 - Importance of mentorship and visibility in before entering leadership. 

• 00:06:55 - Jessica's advice on saying "yes" to opportunities. 

• 00:09:57 - Build your network 

• 00:11:02 - Challenges of maintaining authenticity in leadership. 

• 00:13:03 - The role of accreditation in career advancement. 

• 00:17:27 – Vulnerability can lead to more visibility. 

• 00:18:07 - Balancing personal life and professional responsibilities. 

• 00:21:34 - Self-advocacy and seeking balance. 

• 00:25:03 – Changing your social circle after moving into leadership 

Takeaways 

• Mentorship and sponsorship are crucial for career advancement in education leadership. 

• Visibility in school-wide roles can significantly impact leadership opportunities. 

• Saying "yes" to opportunities, even challenging ones, can lead to career growth. 

Quotes  

• "Who mentors you and who sponsors you is crucial in your leadership journey." 

• "Saying 'yes' to opportunities is what breaks the rung in leadership progression." 

  "Leadership is very human-centered, and we need to listen when people advocate."