Culture. It’s one of those intangible things that shapes the very heart of a school. It’s not just about policies, it’s about actions—how we do things around here. And at Mt. Olive CUSD #5, the culture is alive in the hallways of our schools. It thrives in every corner, in every classroom, and in the heart of every student and educator.

As a Superintendent in this district, one of my favorite moments during the day comes when I walk through the hallways, usually before or after school when everything is calm and quiet. It’s in these moments I notice the full story our walls tell. I see artwork, hear the echoes of encouraging messages, and feel the pulse of our past, present, and future. It’s more than just decoration; it’s a reflection of who we are and the direction we’re headed.

Recently, a powerful new piece of art was added outside my office, and it has left a lasting impression on me. It perfectly embodies our district’s vision: Empower, Believe, Achieve. The mural, created during a community service day at Mt. Olive High School, is a collaborative effort by our Art IV students and their teachers. Their work stands as a beautiful and vivid reminder of the culture we continue to build at Mt. Olive CUSD #5.

Reflecting on this and other pieces of art throughout our buildings, I realize something profound: each piece tells a story. It’s not just about the finished artwork on the walls—it’s about the work, the ideas, the passion, and the collaboration that brought it to life. And these are the values that shape the culture of our district.

Let Them Lead: Inspiring Students to Empower, Believe, and Achieve

In the context of leadership, the phrase "Let them Lead" is incredibly powerful. As a leader, whether in the classroom or in administration, it is our responsibility to provide students and staff the opportunity to lead themselves, to make decisions, and to contribute to our collective vision. By doing so, we empower them to take ownership of their learning and growth.

When students and staff feel empowered, they begin to believe in their abilities. They start to see that their actions matter—that they are the ones shaping their future. This empowerment leads to belief in themselves and others. And belief is a powerful force—it fuels their passion, their perseverance, and ultimately, their success.

Let Me Lead: Leading with H.O.P.E.

As a leader, I strive to guide others by modeling the principles of HOPE—Habits, Optimistic Outlook, Passion, Purpose, Perseverance, and Excellence. These values not only inspire me but also serve as a foundation for how I approach every challenge and opportunity.

Habits: Success is built upon good habits. I encourage both staff and students to create positive, consistent routines that lead to personal and academic growth.
Optimism: Optimism shapes our approach to challenges. It’s the belief that every obstacle is an opportunity for growth, and that every day is a chance for improvement. A positive outlook on life and learning helps us stay focused on our goals. It reminds us to see potential, not problems.
Purpose: Every action should have purpose. Alignment of our efforts, with our vision of empowerment and achievement, ensures that every task has meaning.
Passion: Passion is the fuel that drives us. When students and staff are passionate about what they do, they naturally give their best.
Perseverance: It’s easy to quit when things get tough, but perseverance is what separates success from failure. I encourage a mindset where challenges are met with determination, and failure is seen as a stepping stone, not an end.
Excellence: Excellence is a journey, not a destination. It’s about continually pushing ourselves to improve and striving for the best in everything we do.

The Power of Art and Culture

The recent mural at Mt. Olive CUSD #5 represents the powerful habits, optimism, and belief that drive our students and staff. As we look at the mural, we are reminded of the district's commitment to empowering each individual, believing in their potential, and helping them achieve their dreams. The story behind every piece of art in our schools—whether it’s murals, student projects, or encouraging messages—speaks to our culture of growth and empowerment. These artworks don’t just decorate our walls; they tell the story of a community committed to lifting each other up and guiding everyone toward a brighter future.

When we embrace the principles of H.O.P.E., we foster an environment where everyone has the tools they need to succeed and thrive. This doesn’t happen by chance; it requires clarity, intention, and consistent effort—each of which can be woven into the very fabric of a district's culture. Together, clarity, intention, and consistent effort ensure that we don’t just dream of a supportive and thriving environment—we actively build it, step by step. Each piece of art on our walls, each encouraging message, and every thoughtful conversation is a part of the larger story we are writing. And just as the artwork in our schools represents the hard work and dedication of students and staff, it also serves as a reminder that this culture is something we continue to shape with purpose and care.

A Culture of H.O.P.E. - Inspiring Leadership

Hope & Leadership