In this episode of Build Momentum, we are joined by Dr. Matthew Montgomery, the current superintendent of two school districts, Lake Forest Community High School District 115 and Lake Forest Elementary District 67, for almost four years. In addition to this unique setup, he is also the Lead Superintendent for Cohort and Partner Connections in AASA, The School Superintendents Association.

Some Questions We Ask:

• Can you tell us more about your career as a superintendent for two school districts? (01:30)
• What are the most rewarding aspects of school leadership? (06:19)
• What is your take regarding the 2023 RAND study, and how do you cope with the stress that your role brings? (08:18)
• Has scrutiny of the superintendency changed over the years? (12:27)
• Do you think your experiences are similar or different compared to other superintendents across the nation? (15:23)
• What strategies do you incorporate to help the community understand your vision for the district? (19:15)
• What are your thoughts regarding humanizing the role of superintendency? (24:11)
• How can we better support district leaders? (28:51)

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

• About Dr. Montgomery’s career (01:53)
• Rewarding aspects of school leadership (06:22)
• Thoughts about the 2023 RAND study and coping with stress (08:31)
• Scrutiny of the superintendency (12:37)
• Similarities and differences regarding superintendents’ experiences (15:40)
• Strategies for uniting the community around a vision for the districts Dr. Montgomery leads (19:29)
• Thoughts on humanizing the superintendency (25:04)
• How K-12 education system supporters can advocate for district leaders (29:03)

Quotes:

“I was a high school science teacher, and I always wanted to know what was happening in the principal’s office when they would close the door. … When I got to the principal’s office, then I was curious about what was happening in the superintendent’s office. And now I make the joke that when I’m in my office, if anybody walks in and closes the door, I’m like, ‘Oh, please don’t!’ [Now] I’ve had my fill of what happens.”

“As a leader, you are a conduit for an incredible amount of stakeholder voices. You need to try to find some cohesiveness and then be responsible for helping lead them in the direction that they have defined.”

“Leadership is the most rewarding and challenging role that people can experience, and it is a privilege to be given this responsibility.”

“We need to have a community that understands that you need great people leading organizations. How we treat our leaders matters—and increases the likelihood when one leader leaves, you are going to find another great leader to follow.”

Stay in touch with Dr. Matthew Montgomery:
LinkedIn
Lake Forest Schools

Stay in touch with Sarah Williamson:
SWPR GROUP Website
LinkedIn

Stay in touch with Chad Bolser:
LinkedIn

About "The Secret to Transformational Leadership," which Sarah co-authored with Dr. Quintin Shepherd:
Transformational Leadership Secret website
Purchase the print or ebook