We were thrilled to have so many state board members join us for an inspiring visit to Waggener High School as part of our preconference programming at Annual Conference in Louisville, Kentucky. As one of the original schools of the Academies of Louisville, Waggener connects its students with business and community partners to earn college credits and career-focused learning opportunities in law, education, computer science, and nursing.
Attendees heard from Joseph Ellison, assistant superintendent of high schools for Jefferson County Public Schools; Faith Stroud, director of leadership development; and Dr. Sarah Hitchings, Waggener’s principal, who discussed the school’s unique approach. It was clear that equity, a thriving school culture and strong leadership are key to Waggener’s success.
Board members also got to interact with student ambassadors who shared about how the school’s supportive environment has impacted their achievement, and what excites them the most. “I look forward to going to my classes every day. This learning environment has allowed me to go from a failing student to now a 4.0 [GPA],” one student shared.
A panel of district leaders discussed Jefferson County’s efforts to develop school leaders and its participation in the Wallace Foundation’s Equity-Centered Pipeline Initiative, which supports eight large school districts across the country in producing school leaders who can advance educational equity and elevate student learning. Dr. Marty Pollio, superintendent, emphasized the importance of an equity-centered leadership pipeline, noting its ripple effect on district-wide success. “Prioritizing strong leaders pays off in dividends,” added Faith Stroud.
In the afternoon, experts from College Board, Helios Education Foundation, Education Commission of the States, and KnowledgeWorks led reflective discussions on state policy ecosystems that support student-centered pathways and lead to college and career success for all students. Arkansas board chair Sarah Moore emphasized the importance of aligning every pathway with post-secondary outcomes to ensure students are set on a successful trajectory. “[We must] make sure we are putting students on a trajectory for life.”
Attendees left the session with action items to bring to their own state, questions they can ask, programs they can implement, and momentum to keep the conversation going.
NASBE will continue this work 2025 through our new High School Transformation Network and learning opportunities through the Principal Collaborative.
NASBE serves as the only membership organization for state boards of education. A nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, NASBE elevates state board members’ voices in national and state policymaking, facilitates the exchange of informed ideas, and supports members in advancing equity and excellence in public education for students of all races, genders, and circumstances. Learn more at www.nasbe.org.
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