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Hello, Kankakee County and beyond! Today’s spotlight shines on a pivotal conversation about education, community, and leadership. We’re diving into a dialogue that highlights the heart of our community right here in Kankakee. In this special episode, JaHana Holloway takes on the role of guest host, interviewing Dr. Teresa Lance, the superintendent of Kankakee School District. Let’s explore their insightful conversation, one filled with hopes, challenges, and an exciting vision for the future.
Welcoming Dr. Teresa Lance: A Leader with a Vision
JaHana Holloway opens the episode with gratitude for the platform provided by Kankakee Podcast and an enthusiastic introduction of Dr. Teresa Lance. Dr. Lance, who joined the district as an outsider, emphasizes the warm welcome she received: “No one has made me feel like an outsider,” she reflects as she details her commitment to the community and her role. Having come from a non-local background, Dr. Lance discusses the promising potential she saw in Kankakee, wanting to propel it even further with her expertise.
Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Victories
Throughout their conversation, Dr. Lance and JaHana Holloway address both the challenges and victories within the school district. Dr. Lance shares her goal of putting a licensed teacher in front of every student by 2027. She highlights existing victories, such as her successful listening and learning sessions and the implementation of audits to improve the curriculum and HR processes. “Who are our exemplary teachers that we should be saying, can you model? Can you do some PD for us?” Dr. Lance passionately shares her focus on using evaluations for growth, not just compliance.
The Importance of Listening and Learning
Among the key strategies Dr. Lance employs is her commitment to listening and learning from those directly impacted by her decisions. This includes everything from working with fellow board members to listening to community members: “I walked away with just the wealth of information to help guide the work,” she recounts, emphasizing the significance of these sessions in shaping her initiatives.
Building Community and Addressing Concerns
Dr. Lance acknowledges the ongoing concerns from the community, inviting open communication through board meetings and encouraging participatory involvement in shaping policies. She clarifies the processes for addressing grievances, ensuring parents and community members they are heard and valued.
A Vision for the Future
JaHana Holloway prompts Dr. Lance to envision the future of Kankakee School District, leading to an inspiring declaration: “We’re going to be a destination district. We’re going to have a line of people who want to come back or get into our district.” Her vision includes fostering students with diverse and successful futures, propelling them beyond local and into broader arenas.
Conclusion: Hope Starts Here
In closing, Dr. Teresa Lance leaves us with a powerful message that embodies her leadership style and vision for Kankakee: “Hope starts here. But more importantly, hope starts with you.” This conversation is a testament to the dedication and collaborative spirit that fuels positive change and growth within our community.
Thank you for joining us on this deep dive into the heart of Kankakee’s educational landscape. If this episode of Kankakee Podcast resonated with you, please subscribe and follow us on social media. A special thanks to our Patreon supporters, like Jeff and Rosa Carroll, whose contributions help keep our community’s stories alive.
Until next time, this is Jake Lamore, urging you to keep the hope alive and to stay engaged with the vibrant stories from Kankakee County!
