Providence Public Schools Superintendent Discusses Leadership in America's Urban Schools

As teachers across America strive to improve student achievement, a critical component of their success is the ability of administrators to lead schools and districts in the right direction. Thomas Brady, superintendent of Providence Public Schools in Providence, R.I., knows very well how strong leadership skills can contribute greatly to the success for individual schools and entire districts. In the latest episode of the District Leaders Podcast, the only national podcast Web site created expressly for district and other educational leaders, Brady discusses leadership, student achievement and other topics in education.

Brady focuses on how motivation, leadership and long-term goal setting are key drivers of student achievement. Hosted by Arthur Griffin, senior vice president of the Urban Advisory Resource at McGraw-Hill Education, the interview delves into the challenges associated with urban education, such as resource and budget allocation. Brady talks about how to overcome these challenges and make the tough decisions to ensure that every child has access to a quality education.

Brady also discusses his professional development, and how he's drawn on guidance from role models and Army experiences to succeed as a school district administrator. One unique quality that has benefited Brady in both his military and civilian careers is his ability to lead. "In the Army in particular, you have to be able to motivate and lead subordinates to do things that they normally wouldn't do. That skill set has been absolutely critical because what we do in education every day is difficult, but we have to be able to realize and communicate that we are all heading toward a common goal - giving our children the education they deserve."

In addition to discussing his work in Providence, Brady touches on important topics in education including instruction for English Language Learners and special education students, the Race to the Top federal grant competition, and the impact of technology in education.

Brady was appointed superintendent in March 2008, following nearly 10 years of service in public education administration. Prior to that, he had a distinguished 25-year career in the U.S. Army, attaining the rank of colonel. Brady is a 2004 fellow of the prestigious Broad Urban Superintendents Academy. He holds a master's degree in human resource management from Pepperdine University and a bachelor's degree in education and social sciences from Niagara University.

About DistrictLeadersPodcast.com

The District Leader's Podcast team is passionate about education and deeply committed to student success. The site serves as a valuable tool for anyone interested in improving America's schools. District Leader's Podcast is sponsored by McGraw-Hill Education's Urban Advisory Resource comprising former education leaders and other experts with extensive experience in managing large school districts. It is produced by TeachersPodcast.org, a professional development resource for educators with an audience of more than 4.3 million listeners. The podcast is currently listed on iTunes as "New and Notable" for K-12 Education. Visit www.DistrictLeadersPodcast.com for more information.

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SOURCE: District Leader's Podcast; McGraw-Hill Education

CONTACT: Tom Stanton, McGraw-Hill Education, +1-212-904-3214,
tom_stanton@mcgraw-hill.com

Web Site: http://www.districtleaderspodcast.com/