Derek Bodley

We focus a lot on building strong teacher-student relationships, so kids feel supported and motivated. Another big one is offering a variety of extracurricular activities and clubs that cater to different interests—it keeps students engaged beyond academics. Plus, regular feedback and celebrating achievements, no matter how small, go a long way in boosting confidence and performance!

To encourage closer collaboration between CTE (Career and Technical Education) teachers and other teachers, leaders can take a few key actions. First, create opportunities for regular communication, like shared planning time or joint meetings, so everyone can align on goals and strategies. Second, promote team-building activities or cross-department projects to help teachers build relationships and share expertise. Third, provide professional development sessions that emphasize interdisciplinary teaching approaches. Lastly, foster a culture of mutual respect and support by recognizing and celebrating collaborative efforts. It’s all about breaking down silos and encouraging teamwork!

vI think we could aim to focus more on innovative teaching methods and integrating technology in more meaningful ways. Also, maybe working on creating even more opportunities for students to explore their interests outside of the classroom would be awesome. It’s all about building on what’s already working well and striving to do even better!

CTE (Career and Technical Education) can really make a big difference in school improvement! It gives students hands-on learning experiences that connect directly to real-world careers, which can boost engagement and motivation. Plus, it helps prepare students for life after school, whether that's jumping into a job or pursuing further education. Schools with strong CTE programs often see higher graduation rates, better attendance, and a more positive school culture. It’s a win-win for students and the school overall!

Inspiring and guiding others effectively begins with establishing trust and leading by example. When individuals feel valued, supported, and have a clear understanding of their roles and expectations, they’re far more likely to remain motivated, engaged, and perform at their best. Building this kind of environment fosters not only productivity but also a sense of belonging and mutual respect.

I’ve realized how important it is to actually make the most of what an advisory board brings to the table. Nobody wants to just sit there and feel like they’re wasting their time—that’s no fun for anyone. My plan is to really connect with the board members, get their input, and actually put their ideas into action when it makes sense. It’s all about keeping things meaningful and making sure their time and expertise really count.

Cost principles make sure Perkins funds are spent the right way, covering essential and reasonable costs that benefit career and technical education.

The spending rules align with Perkins and aim to provide essential educational support to underserved communities.

Not really, I have some familiarity with Perkins funding.