Transition

Transition

• 1. the process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another.

In August 2023, I made a significant career transition, moving from my role as a high school principal, a position I held for 17 years, to the position of Associate Teaching Professor at the University of Rhode Island. This change marks a pivotal moment in my lifelong dedication to education, signifying a shift from steering a school to influencing the broader educational landscape.

At the heart of this new role is the creation and leadership of a groundbreaking graduate program designed for aspiring school leaders. Simultaneously, I will engage in teaching undergraduate courses at the Feinstein College of Education.

Transitioning from the structured environment of a high school to the vast academic landscape of a university presents a multitude of changes and challenges. Although the execution of my responsibilities differs, the core values remain consistent: a deep-seated commitment to education, empowerment, and societal improvement.

Navigating the nuances of academia, from crafting lesson plans and evaluating student progress to spearheading the development of a graduate program, has been an invigorating yet sometimes daunting experience. Engaging in the process of lesson planning has been a rollercoaster of excitement and occasional frustration, but overall, returning to teaching has been a fulfilling endeavor.

For the past six years, my focus and passion revolved around supporting and nurturing the growth of school leaders. My involvement with the Rhode Island Association of School Principals (RIASP) and as CEO of DPK Solutions has allowed me to collaborate with new and aspiring school leaders, offering guidance, mentorship, and practical experience.

The prospect of building a graduate program tailored for future school leaders is an extraordinary opportunity. It allows me to channel my wealth of experience into guiding, inspiring, and nurturing the next generation of educational leaders.

Education represents an ever-evolving realm, transcending the boundaries of the classroom. The transition from a high school principal to a university professor marks not just a career shift, but a transformative journey. Exciting times lie ahead as I delve deeper into this new chapter of my professional life, where I am poised to make a significant impact on the future of education.