Belong, Believe, Become: The Three Pillars of Community Engagement in Education

💡 Key Takeaways

• Creating a Sense of Belonging: The district prioritizes creating an inclusive environment where students, staff, and the community feel they belong, which is crucial to their success.

• Building Schools from the Inside Out: Leadership development is emphasized across all roles, from bus drivers to nutrition services, ensuring everyone sees themselves as an integral part of the district’s success.

• Leadership Philosophy: Tim Winter's approach centers around vulnerability, building trust, direct praise, and effective conflict resolution to foster strong relationships and accountability.

• Continuous Improvement: Importance of daily self-reflection and striving to get better every day, aligning with the district's 'SK way' five core values.

• Mentorship and Development: Personalized approach to developing leaders, focusing on authenticity and building individual potential rather than relying on standardized programs.

Creating a Sense of Belonging in School Communities

"When everyone belongs, they have a much better chance of being successful."

Tim Winter, superintendent of the South Kitsap School District, emphasizes the crucial role of belonging within educational communities. Located in Port Orchard, Washington, this district embodies a strong sense of unity, despite the geographical and economic challenges it faces. Winter's determination to build schools from the inside out hinges on fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels part of the community.

Winter states, "We are engaging, re-engaging in our professional learning community resources and practices. We've been probably for the last ten or 15 years, have really been into professional learning communities, but we haven't really brought those back as a reinvestment." This reinvestment in professional learning communities highlights the district's dedication to ensuring all members, including teachers, bus drivers, food nutrition services personnel, and IT teams, feel valued and integral to the district's success.

This approach extends beyond the school walls, where the district aims to be the community hub. Winter explains, "I really believe the strength of the community is related to the strength of the school district and vice versa." By viewing every member of the school district as a leader, Winter fosters an environment where individuals are encouraged to take ownership and contribute to the community's growth.

 

Building Leadership Through Relationships and Vulnerability

"Leadership is not just the role of the superintendent or the principal, but every bus driver is a leader. Every person who works in food nutrition services is a leader. Every custodian is a leader."

Winter's philosophy on leadership is deeply rooted in the power of relationships. For him, effective leadership transcends official titles and is about genuine connections with those around you. He underscores the critical importance of vulnerability and courage in leadership, highlighting that one must be open and show their true selves to build trust and foster relationships.

Reflecting on his journey from a teacher to a superintendent, Winter shares, "I had someone in our lives who gives us a nudge, maybe directly or indirectly, and we end up going down a path." This path led him to realize the importance of relationships and connection in successful leadership.

Winter's emphasis on learning people's names and personal stories demonstrates his commitment to individualized care and attention. "I think people's names are critically important, not only knowing their names but knowing how to pronounce their names," he shares. This personal touch is a testament to his belief that recognition and validation are fundamental in uplifting others.

Furthermore, Winter's approach to resolving conflicts through conversation and mutual understanding rather than avoidance or confrontation showcases his belief in constructive engagement. He articulates, "When you love people, you still engage with people. When you have conflict, but you work for resolution, treat people with respect, build trust, dignity along the way."

 

Nurturing Future Leaders: A Relational Approach

"I don't expect you to be me, but here's some things that could help you become a better leader, whether your leadership style is going to run parallel to mine or not."

Winter nurtures future leaders by focusing on individualized growth and mentorship. He believes that leadership qualities are inherent in everyone and can be cultivated through consistent support and encouragement. Reflecting on the values of the "skway," which include love people, get better every day, know your purpose, think big, and attitude of gratitude, Winter creates a culture where everyone is encouraged to lead in their unique way.

An example of Winter's belief in the power of personalized mentorship is his approach to providing specific feedback. He recounts a conversation with an administrative colleague who was not used to receiving individualized praise. This interaction reinforces Winter's belief that specific feedback can not only recognize accomplishments but also motivate individuals to strive for continuous improvement.

Additionally, the idea of "shoulder to shoulder" support is central to Winter's leadership style. By fostering an environment of mutual support and trust, he ensures that leaders at all levels feel empowered and valued. Winter's commitment to personal connection and vulnerability leads to a genuine culture of mentorship, where leaders can thrive.

Winter also stresses the importance of being anchored in one's personal growth and situational awareness. He explains, "I do need that quiet time and quiet space to recharge at the end of the day. But I get to do that through exercise or through reading or just being quiet and being still." This balance of introspection and active engagement is crucial in maintaining effective leadership.

 

Belonging, Belief, and Becoming: The Core of Leadership

Winter's leadership philosophy, distilled into the principles of belonging, belief, and becoming, is a powerful testament to the impact of relationship-oriented leadership. His approach demonstrates that by fostering a sense of belonging, cultivating belief, and enabling individuals to become their best selves, leaders can create thriving educational communities.

Throughout the conversation, Winter's commitment to these principles is evident in every aspect of his work. From his focus on professional learning communities to his personalized mentorship and conflict resolution strategies, he embodies the values that he holds dear.

For any educator aspiring to leadership, Winter's journey offers valuable lessons. His advice to reflect on past leadership roles, however small, and to embrace the power of relationships and genuine connections, serves as a guiding light. By focusing on individualized care, continuous growth, and mutual support, aspiring leaders can cultivate the qualities necessary to inspire and uplift those around them.

The themes of belonging, belief, and becoming highlight the importance of creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering environments where everyone can thrive. Winter's leadership is a shining example of how these principles can be implemented effectively to build strong, resilient communities.

 

MEET OUR GUEST

Tim Winter

Tim Winter has been the Superintendent of the South Kitsap School District in Port Orchard, Washington, since July 2019. With 11 years as a school superintendent and over 34 years in education, Tim has dedicated his career to fostering inspiring learning environments. Before South Kitsap, he led the Clarkston School District from 2014 to 2019.

An alumnus of Eastern Washington University, Tim has a diverse background in education, having taught at all school levels, coached high school basketball, and spent nine years as a high school administrator—a role he finds particularly rewarding. A former English teacher, he remains passionate about reading and lifelong learning.

Outside of work, Tim enjoys running, traveling, and boating, while appreciating the Pacific Northwest's beauty. He has been married to Kristin for 35 years, and they have three sons, two daughters-in-law, and four grandchildren.

Guided by his philosophy—"Love People. Live with Passion. Lead with Purpose"—Tim is committed to making a lasting impact in the communities he serves.