From Silos to Synergy: Denny Waters on Uniting Schools for Impact

💡 Key Takeaways

• Coherence in Leadership: Learn how Denny Waters ensures alignment across his district by focusing on coherence and simplifying educational initiatives to core objectives.

• Strategic Development Process: Understand the strategic planning journey that led Battleground Public Schools to successfully integrate high quality instruction and social-emotional learning as central pillars.

• Cultural Impact: Discover how creating a clear strategic focus has enhanced both the performance and community culture within the school district.

• Relationship Building: Gain insight into Denny's belief in the importance of relationships, transparency, and collaboration as foundational elements of effective educational leadership.

• Leadership Development: Explore methods Denny employs to cultivate the next generation of leaders, emphasizing intentionality in mentoring and capacity building.

Fostering Coherence and Alignment in School Districts

The concept of coherence is central to Waters' leadership approach, as it addresses the pitfalls of fragmented educational endeavors. He noticed the district was previously "siloed," with separate entities pursuing "their own little pet projects." This kind of disjointedness, as he observed, led to inefficiencies and a sense of competition that detracted from the district's ability to serve its students optimally.

Waters highlighted a transformative moment when the district leadership realized they had "82 different initiatives," which he recognized as untenable. The solution was to zero in on high-quality instruction and the social-emotional learning aspects for students. By distilling priorities down to these core elements, the district not only clarified its mission but also aligned its objectives to foster a unified direction. Waters emphasized the success of this approach, noting that "our strategic plan is one page now," allowing for universal clarity and focus across all stakeholders in the district. 

"Oftentimes, education is often pulled into too many different directions, that we become just the victim of what's the next big thing or initiatives."

 

Building Leadership Capacity and Intentional Development

A persistent and deliberate effort is necessary to cultivate the next generation of educational leaders—a truth Waters has embraced wholeheartedly. His narrative underscores the importance of "building capacity in others" and establishing a legacy of leadership within the school district. He believes in an "educational tree" where strong leaders emerge and flourish, deeply rooted in the district's mission and strategy.

Waters insists on an intentional approach, which involves being transparent and approachable as a leader. He stated, "I have a very much of an open door policy," and emphasized the necessity of being "encouraging" to those capable but unsure of their leadership potential. By offering opportunities for growth and mentorship, Battleground ensures continuity and sustainability in its leadership pipeline.

"I don't want our teachers to be robots. I don't want our teachers to like. I have to teach exactly the same way as my partner, the person across the hall from me."

Prioritizing Relationships to Enhance Collaboration and Trust

Renowned for his relational leadership style, Waters attributes much of his success to the power of relationships. He recounts being taught early in his administrative career that the three keys to success are "relationships, relationships, relationships," a mantra he has carried throughout his career. For Waters, building meaningful connections is foundational not only in the classroom but within the broader organizational structure of the district.

Waters explained how relationships aid in achieving coherence and collaboration. By ensuring all stakeholders feel respected and valued, he created an environment where staff feel "part of it" and where negotiations are eased by mutual understanding and shared goals. This emphasis on relationships extends into Waters' open communication policy, fostering an approachable atmosphere where everyone—from teachers to parents—can engage seamlessly.

While traversing the landscape of educational leadership, Denny Waters showcases an insightful blend of coherence, capacity building, and relationship-centered strategies that have redefined success within Battleground Public Schools. The dialogue he shares evokes a blueprint adaptable to a variety of school environments seeking systemic transformation. By fostering a sense of shared direction and purpose, schools can ensure they are prepared to meet and exceed the educational needs of their communities, ultimately paving the way for substantial and sustained student success.

 

MEET OUR GUEST

Denny Waters

Denny Waters is the Superintendent of Battleground Public Schools in Washington. With over 35 years in the Battleground community, Denny has been deeply involved with the district for nearly two decades. Originally starting as a classroom teacher, Waters advanced through various leadership roles, including Deputy Superintendent, ultimately taking on his current role as Superintendent. His passion for education and leadership is reflected in his dedication to creating cohesive strategies that enhance teaching and student success. Under his leadership, Battleground Public Schools focuses on high-quality instruction, social-emotional learning, and collaboration fostering trust.