Choosing the High Road in Uncertain Times

By Dr. Pam Deering Executive Director Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration (CCOSA)

Choosing the High Road in Uncertain Times

Dear Oklahoma School Leaders,

As we prepare to usher in another school year, we do so with full awareness of the ever-evolving challenges in public education. From funding constraints and legislative pressures to educator shortages and increased expectations, the weight you carry as educational leaders is substantial – and at times, overwhelming. Forces that try to separate people and create division are many. Yet, in the face of these obstacles, I am reminded of a powerful message from John Maxwell’s High Road Leadership: Bringing People Together in a World That Divides: “High-road leaders don’t focus on the chasm between people. They focus on connection.”

Taking the high road is not always the easiest path, nor is it the most popular. It demands humility, integrity, resilience, and a commitment to excellence even when the circumstances around us fall short. It asks us to lead with vision and values, not reaction or resentment. And perhaps most importantly, it calls us to believe in the transformational power of education and in one another.

What Does the High Road Look Like in Oklahoma Schools?

For Oklahoma leaders, the high road means continuing to advocate passionately for our students and teachers while maintaining respect for the process and those we partner with – even when we disagree. It means choosing transparency over expediency, courage over comfort, and service over self. It means rising above the noise and negativity to focus on what truly matters: creating schools where every child can learn, grow, and thrive. In times of discord, the high road is often the lonelier route. But as leaders, we must go there first. We set the tone for our school communities. When we take the high road, we invite others to join us – our staff, our students, our school boards, our communities, and yes, even our critics. Our leadership becomes not just positional, but transformational.

High Road Leadership: Bringing People Together in a World That Divides

by John C. Maxwell

Staying Steady in the Storm

As John Maxwell notes, “Everything rises and falls on leadership.” In Oklahoma, we’ve weathered many storms together – and we know there may be more ahead. But I believe with all my heart that the strength of our public schools lies in the quality of our leadership.

At CCOSA, our mission is to support, develop, and advocate for leaders like you who choose courage, character, and compassion. You are the difference makers. Whether you lead a school building or a district, your influence is profound.

So as you enter this new season, I encourage you to:

■ Lead with purpose. Keep your eyes fixed on what’s best for children.

■ Speak with integrity. Words have power –they matter. Use them to build, not break.

■ Act with courage. Even when it’s hard. Especially when it’s hard.

■ Connect with others. The high road is not meant to be walked alone. Lean on your CCOSA network and fellow leaders across the state.

You are not alone on this journey. Together, we are building a future for Oklahoma’s children – one decision, one conversation, one act of leadership at a time. Let’s take the high road, not because it’s easy, but because it’s right. And because our students are worth it.

With respect and gratitude,