Heath Morrison’s Blog
Engaging Volunteers in our Schools
Each spring, as educators gear up for the home stretch of the school year, it’s a great idea to recognize the parent volunteers who have contributed in big and small ways in our schools. Exhibiting an attitude of gratitude for teachers and staff members is always a...
School District Budgeting is a Process, Not a One-Time Event
Each spring, school districts begin gearing up for one of their most important obligations: developing their budget for the next school year. Budgets play a critical role in the planning, control and evaluation of school district operations. The adoption of a budget...
To Choose Or Not to Choose with School Choice Legislation
As legislatures across the country get set to resume their business, the issue of school choice, especially in Republican controlled bodies, continues to be a topic of interest. The "choice movement" in public education is not new, and many states have already adopted...
Sending a Message of Gratitude to School Board Trustees
Each January, school districts across the country acknowledge the work of their local school boards, comprised of the public servants who have committed themselves to governing school districts and advancing student achievement in the communities they serve. While it...
Who Will Lead the Nation’s School Districts
Last year there was a surge of leaders leaving the superintendency. This year, the number is expected to dramatically increase. While the tenure of superintendents, especially in urban districts, has always been an issue, the surge of individuals leaving the...
Recognizing Your School Leaders during National Principals Month
"Great schools have great principals." That slogan has been around for a long time, but it is a truism that continues to be relevant today. There are numerous research studies that speak to the impact of effective principals on school quality, teacher retention, and...
Building and Maintaining Positive Media Relations for Your School District
A superintendent wears many “hats” in their role as the leader of a school district. From academic instruction, to the operations and finances of the organization, the superintendent must have a broad set of skills and expertise that makes them a successful leader in...
The Ingredients for Quality Leadership Can Be Found Anywhere
Many people who know me are often surprised when I reference cooking shows when discussing leadership, which is, without a doubt, due to my self-described “palate of a three-year old.” While I may not eat a lot of what I observe on these cooking shows, I am always...
Focusing on the Needs of Teachers Entering a New School Year
Schools across the nation are gearing up for the new school year. For leaders in education, the start of a new school year presents new opportunities to re-think how to best support teachers as they deliver a quality academic program that meets the needs of all...
School Leaders Should Be Proactive About Gearing up for Legislative Session
State lawmakers across the country are gearing up for their next legislative sessions, which in most states begin in January or February. In upcoming state legislative sessions, there will almost certainly be a significant number of proposals that would have an impact...