Episode 13: Building a Shared Vision for Student Learning and System Transformation (Part Two)

In part two of this conversation, Dr. Michael Barnes, superintendent of Mayfield City Schools, talks with Dr. Karen Garza, president and CEO at Battelle for Kids, about how focusing on the vision led to practices that empower both staff and students. He also discusses how Mayfield students develop a sense of ownership in their learning throughout their time in the district. 

Dr. Michael Barnes has been the superintendent for Mayfield City Schools near Cleveland, Ohio, since 2021. He began his career in education as a social studies teacher and has served in other administrative roles, including athletic director, director of human resources, and assistant superintendent.    

Battelle for Kids (BFK) is a national, not-for-profit organization with the mission of realizing the power and promise of 21st century, deeper learning for every student. In addition, BFK helps education leaders engage their communities to re-envision and transform their school systems. One way BFK does this is the Portrait of a Graduate, a locally developed but globally positioned vision, which serves as a North Star for system transformation.   

Listeners who are members of Battelle for Kids' EdLeader21 Network can visit Mayfield City Schools to see the transformation occurring within the system by attending a site visit. Mark your calendars for Thursday, May 11, and stay tuned for more details to come. Not a member of EdLeader21? Learn more about the premier national network for education transformation by visiting bfk.org/edleader21. 

• Learn more about Mayfield City Schools: mayfieldschools.org 
• Learn more about Battelle for Kids: bfk.org
• Register for the Spring Superintendent Summit: bfk.org/summit
• View more examples of system transformation on YouTube: youtube.com/@battelleforkids