Supporting School Leaders: From Dean of Students to Process Consultant
Discover how to build effective support systems for education leaders in this essential conversation between Bridget Johnson and veteran educator Lukie Wells. With 35+ years in independent schools, Lukie shares invaluable insights on the unique challenges facing deans of students, the critical importance of authentic feedback for heads of school, and strategies for creating accountability while maintaining collaborative culture.
This episode explores the often-overlooked support needs of school leaders, from the isolation experienced by deans of students to the complex dynamics affecting senior administrative teams. Lukie's journey from dean to process consultant provides a unique perspective on what leaders truly need to succeed, including the power of debriefing difficult conversations and building trust within teams.
In this episode, you'll learn:
Why deans of students face unique challenges and how to provide meaningful support
How to assess and improve trust dynamics within senior administrative teams
Strategies for giving and receiving authentic feedback as a school leader
Methods for creating accountability systems that preserve collaborative culture
The importance of professional coaching and mentoring throughout your career
Featured Guest: Lukie Wells, Senior Partner at Design Group International, brings extensive experience as former Dean of Students at Milton Academy and Darrow School. She developed the NAIS Coaches Corner and holds certifications in process consulting and organizational dynamics, making her uniquely qualified to address the support needs of education professionals.
Recommended Resources: NAIS Coaches Corner, Design Group International process consulting services
Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/
Email: bridget@deansroundtable.org
Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/
Student Life Community of Practice: https://www.treyeducation.com/event/student-life-professionals/
The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.
