Small Town, Big Decisions: Casey Hallgarth Leads with Heart in Rural Oregon

This week, Casey Hallgarth, Superintendent of the Baker School District in Baker City, Oregon, joins the podcast. 

Here are a few key takeaways:

  • Building relationships is paramount to successful leadership. Casey emphasizes the significance of authentic and genuine connections with staff, community members, and board members. 
  • Shared image of success. To promote a shared image of success, Casey believes in open communication and active listening. He suggests convening groups and “really listening to what they’re saying.” 
  • Walking the talk is crucial. Casey firmly believes in leading by example and aligning actions with words. This approach fosters trust and credibility within the school community.
  • “Will it help the kids?” Casey uses this simple yet powerful question as a guiding principle for decision-making. He explains, “…kids are why we’re here to make them better. period.” 
  • Networking and support are essential. Casey encourages aspiring leaders to build a strong network of support and seek guidance from experienced administrators. 

Casey Hallgarth’s insights provide valuable lessons for educational leaders at all levels. His emphasis on relationships, action-oriented leadership, and a child-centered approach offers a roadmap for creating a positive and thriving school environment.

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An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr

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An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at http://www.imperfectleader.com.

Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley.

Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly.