223. Dr. Kristopher Brown – Empowered Leadership

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Dr. Kristopher Brown shares his journey in education, highlighting his commitment to creating a positive school environment through empowered leadership.

“I want to be what I needed.”

“Culture drives everything.”

“Generosity and empathy go a long way.”

“Never abandon who you are.”

“Everybody comes to the table dealing with something.”

Episode summary |

Dr. Kristopher Brown shares his journey in education, highlighting his commitment to creating a positive school environment. He discusses the importance of using student feedback to inform decisions, fostering a culture of inclusion, and the impact of leadership attitude on school dynamics. Dr. Brown reflects on his experiences, emphasizing the need for empathy and generosity in leadership, and shares valuable lessons learned from his career.

In this conversation, Kris shares personal anecdotes and insights about leadership, kindness, and the importance of creating safe spaces in educational environments. He reflects on a moment of disappointment when a cherished degree frame shattered, and how an unexpected act of kindness from a colleague helped him see the value of generosity in leadership. Kris emphasizes the need for emotional support in schools, the importance of staying connected to the experiences of students and staff, and the power of authenticity in leadership. He also discusses the significance of maintaining one’s identity and optimism in the face of challenges, and shares rapid-fire reflections on personal values and goals for the future.

R.O.G. Takeaway Tips |

Listening to students is crucial for effective leadership.
Creating a positive school culture requires intentionality and student involvement.
Empathy is essential in addressing student needs and behaviors.
Generosity in leadership can significantly impact school communities.
Maintaining connections with all stakeholders enhances the educational experience.
Reflecting on past experiences helps leaders grow and improve.
A positive attitude from leaders influences the entire school environment.
Building relationships is key to preventing student issues.
Authenticity in leadership fosters a supportive and engaging atmosphere.

Chapters |

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Kristopher Brown

01:24 Dr. Brown’s Background and Early Life

03:48 Inspiration for a Career in Education

06:54 Using Student Feedback to Drive Change

09:42 Creating a Positive School Culture

11:53 The Importance of Leadership Attitude

14:49 Stories of Generosity and Learning

23:16 Reflections on Leadership and Growth

24:07 The Heartbreak of a Shattered Dream

27:16 Acts of Kindness and Leadership

28:10 Putting Things Back Together

29:55 Creating Safe Spaces in Education

32:24 Staying Connected to the Experience

34:43 Embracing Authenticity in Leadership

35:44 Rapid Fire Reflections

38:56 Keys to Living a Great Life

39:50 Setting Goals for the Future

Guest Bio |

Dr. Kristopher Brown is the Assistant Superintendent of Administration for Pennsbury School District, where he has served since 2023. Prior to this, he was the Director of Student Services & Equity for the Abington School District. Dr. Brown has previously served as Principal of Strath Haven High School in the Wallingford-Swarthmore School District after spending four years there as assistant principal. In 2017, he was named Assistant Principal of the Year by the Pennsylvania Principals Association.

He is an alumnus of Abington Senior High School, where he began his educational career as a social studies teacher after earning his bachelor’s degree at Villanova University. Dr. Brown earned a master’s degree from Delaware Valley University, and a doctorate in educational leadership from Saint Joseph’s University, a university at which he also serves as an adjunct professor.