In this episode, we explore the "Portrait of a GA Teacher" a collective identity at the Greencastle-Antrim School District that transcends mere rules to focus on a shared "collective essence." We dive into the district's foundational filter—Commitment to Children First—and discuss how this guiding principle transforms everything from daily classroom interactions to high-level budgeting decisions. Our conversation also highlights the unique roles that belonging, family, and joy play in shaping the district's vision for teaching and learning. Finally, we look toward the future of GASD to see what’s next for this student-centered community.
Guest Info:
Dr. Lura Hanks currently serves as the superintendent of the Greencastle-Antrim School District in Greencastle, Pennsylvania. Lura has previously worked as the preK-12 Supervisor of English Language Arts and Social Studies in Washington County, Maryland and held the positions of principal, assistant principal, teacher and teacher specialist in Maryland and Pennsylvania over the course of her 29-year career in public education. Lura has been dedicated to curriculum design and instructional practices that lead students to deeper and more authentic learning experiences. Dr. Hanks has a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, a master’s degree in Educational Leadership and a Doctorate of Organizational Leadership from Hood College in Frederick, Maryland. She has presented at local, state, and national conferences on topics of literacy education and teacher professional development. She has authored and contributed to a variety of articles including the 2019 released book by Doug Fisher titled This Is Balanced Literacy, Literacy Leaders Shift the Spotlight (English Leadership Quarterly, 2021) and in 2022, 5 Key Elements to Successful Curriculum Design. In October of 2019, Dr. Hanks presented at the International Literacy Association conference on improving literacy instruction through talent management professional development. Dr. Hanks lives here in Greencastle with her husband and two children.
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