Episode: 330
- Deron Stender has spent 24 years leading school districts, and one lesson stands above the rest: communication builds trust. Hear how early setbacks helped shape his belief that communication isn’t just part of leadership – it’s one of the most important leadership skills a superintendent can develop.
- Are you telling your community what’s happening – or involving them in the conversation? Deron shares a simple mindset shift that’s helped him gain buy-in around difficult financial decisions and strengthen relationships across his district.
- Every leader needs someone who will tell them the truth. Learn how Deron found a trusted staff partner who isn’t afraid to say, “This doesn’t make sense,” and why that honest feedback has made all the difference in his district’s communications.
- Small districts may not have a dedicated communicator, but they can’t afford to ignore communication. Deron explains why investing in communication training, professional networks, and relationship-building can have a lasting impact on your school district’s success.
SPECIAL GUEST
Deron Stender
Superintendent
Creston Community Schools, Iowa
Email: dstender@crestonschools.org
Website: https://www.crestonschools.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100048656033523
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccsd_panthers/
X: https://x.com/CCSD_Panthers
USEFUL INFORMATION
- Learn more about your local School Public Relations Association here.
- Order your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff – While Keeping Your Sanity now!
- Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/
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