Voices of our members...

For comments by Courageous Journey members and graduates, click on each of the Seven Points of Learning below. (click here to download printable version)

Teaching and Learning

The colleague contact with the ability to share ideas, issues and concerns amongst ourselves has been invaluable.  In many ways, Courageous Journey has helped me stay focused and yet be more involved in expressing my commitment to student learning and student achievement.  Board members in my district are aware and delighted that Courageous Journey is a program to enhance the learning opportunities, experiences, and expressions of the superintendent.
~ Len Rezmierski  Northville Public Schools, Cohort 1
 
I am a far better instructional leader because of this experience.
~ Bill DeFrance  Eaton Rapids Public Schools - Cohort 1

My answer would be that it is not what I am getting out of the program, but what our district is getting. The systemic change we are in the process of will hopefully have a long lasting impact well beyond my participation in the program. It has forced me to really look at our instruction and make some difficult decisions. If you look at the districts all across the State that are involved in the program, I think you will find some pretty neat innovations taking place. 
~ Dave Peden  Southgate Community Schools - Cohort 2

The Courageous Journey has done several things for the district and me.  It’s provided a professional network that shares best practices and “real” experiences specific to school issues.  It’s given me a laser like focus on my personal growth plan that specifically relates to the district’s high school reform initiative. 
~ Greg Baracy  Wayne-Westland Community Schools - Cohort 2

Increasing my knowledge and understanding of leadership has been of great value to me and my district. Learning and understanding the vast amount of research available on effective leadership has proven to be very effective and beneficial. In today’s educational climate, accountability and challenges are at an all time high & our race against the clock has started. Principals and superintendents need to know what practices and behaviors truly affect student achievement. The leadership information has helped me focus and lead our board and administrative team on the important behaviors needed to help every child succeed.
~ Lisa Hagel  Mt. Moris Consolidated Schools, Cohort 2

The Courageous Journey has challenged me to consider the best of what students are being offered as educational opportunities in other districts, and then to try to offer those opportunities to my students. My colleagues are offered a wealth of resources regarding best practices for teaching and learning.
~ Jerry Jennex  Capac Community Schools - Cohort 4

Leadership

I'm a better leader. I know more superintendents now and listen to their ideas, which makes me more open-minded and thoughtful. I really LIKE using data. I have a process instead of shooting from the hip. Instead of constantly reacting emotionally to the next input, I step back and reflect, then respond. I continue to learn.
~ Mike Gaunt  Chassell Township Schools, Cohort 1

I think the continuous growth it has provided me has made me a better superintendent.
~ Greg Baracy  Wayne-Westland Community Schools - Cohort 2

The Courageous Journey provides a vehicle for practicing superintendents to improve their craft through collaboration, networking, focused study and raptness in best practice.  Hopefully, I will be a better leader as a result of this experience. ~ Ron Wilson

I have really appreciated my Courageous Journey experience. It has been an educationally enlightening experience. As a profession we may be facing greater challenges than we have ever faced. The challenge is to reach outside the box, network and have the courage to stand up for what we believe is right, many times in the face of great opposition. The learning and the opportunity we receive through our Courageous Journey experience has allowed me to stay focused and balanced and believe we can still make a positive difference, even in the most trying times.
~ Mike Harris, McBain Rural Agricultural Schools, Cohort 4

The ‘Leadership’ point of learning, as it relates to my role as superintendent is continually re-defined and clarified through CJ meetings, activities and conversations with cohort members. During challenging times in our educational systems, recent discussion around the books Chaos Theory and Influencer: The Power to Change Anything has given me perspective. Out of the current Chaos will emerge a new order: Leading all levels of staff within our organization to understanding and accepting this new order while continuing to keep our focus on our students is critical. CJ helps us, as leaders, ‘keep the focus’ on leading for student learning.
~ Lori Tubbergen Clark  Newaygo County RESA, Cohort 2

In these extremely economically challenging times, school leaders are forced to do much more with less. It is imperative that we as school leaders remain positive, focused, refreshed, and able to empower our middle level managers (principals & directors) to do great things for children. Courageous Journey requires me to reflect on the leadership opportunities I have faced and plan for future ones. I believe this reflection process is what provides for my true personal leadership growth and learning.
~ Dan Bauer  Cheboygan Area Schools, Cohort 3

Relationships and Communication

I have new friends across the state who share views on business and professional issues.
~ Bill DeFrance, Eaton Rapids Public Schools - Cohort 1

For me it's the impact of learning through the dynamics of meeting and discussing these learning concepts with colleagues in the context of our practice as superintendents.  The contextual learning, discussing and then applying concepts in a district learning environment is what is unique and valuable about this program.  It also occurs over a length of time (three years) that allows for systematic change or attempts at systematic change to take place.   Because of the nature of these changes, it is meaningful and creates a sustained impact for a district.
~ David Pruneau, Rochester Community Schools - Cohort 2

The Courageous Journey provides a priceless opportunity and process to promote professional growth for superintendents. The time spent with colleagues helps build professional networks and skills to take you to the next level of effectiveness. It provides you with skills and practice to consciously work on the seven points of learning and understand the complexity and vital behaviors of a successful learning system. You are a different leader when you exit the program than you were when you entered; it is worth the time and challenge to develop yourself and systemically change your district.
~ Lisa Hagel, Mt. Morris Consolidated Schools, Cohort 2

Data-Driven Planning and Decision Making

The program's focus on data driven decision making and on system-wide change initiatives created a forum for me and for my school district to research, study and implement programs that are:  solidly research-based and necessary to meet the needs of that particular district as demonstrated by observable and measurable data. 
~ Cathy Shamion, formerly from Ewen-Trout Creek School– Cohort 1

Based upon class sessions and instruction provided by excellent facilitators/instructors, I have widened my perspective on issues and have a great appreciation for the use of data in analyzing student and educational issues.
~ Bill DeFrance, Eaton Rapids Public Schools - Cohort 1

My systemic work has revolved around Data-Driven Planning & Decision Making. As we enter this dynamic age of accountability, we need to use all of the information to make decisions that will best improve student performances. Our strategic intent needs to be well thought out and student focused even in these difficult financial times.
~ Jeff Mount, Mason County Central Schools, Cohort 3

Organizational Development

My district and leadership team is benefiting from what I am learning and sharing, but more importantly, they are growing as leaders that will carry on this work after I'm gone.
~ Sue Zurvalec, Farmington Public Schools - Cohort 2

Recognizing that there is a larger, less tangible gain, some of which defies words, CJ has developed an approach within me that emphasizes a process of listening, building a team approach, and using that approach repeatedly to move a district forward.
~ Mike Gaunt, Chassell Township Schools, Cohort 1

CJ gives me the opportunity to wrestle with leadership issues that are meaningful towards increasing student learning. I see the program as an oasis from the every day important issues that I face as a district manager. I suspect that CJ enrollees stick with the program if they understand that meaningful trumps important in this context. I value the guidance toward increasing systemic staff and student learning. The blog, work sessions, and projects have greatly helped toward this end. 
~ Rick Repicky, Fraser Public Schools - Cohort 2

I know I would not be the superintendent I am today if it were not for the Courageous Journey. I have gained enormous insight into what it takes to lead systemic change and build leadership capacity throughout the school district. My personal growth goals have changed as I have grown. I can better see the connections to leading change and my role to articulate the vision and build an ownership culture. The last session we had with the Influencer Tool was the capstone for clarifying the Framework for leading change.
~ Susan Zurvalec, Farmington Public Schools - Cohort 2

The candid sharing of experiences and honesty provided by my peers, who have years of wisdom, has created a professional, social trust and has created a collegial relationship with confidants who authentically provide assistance and guidance, while selflessly assisting by examining data and formulating plans to help me initiate systemic change for my district.
~ Joseph Trimboli, Lawton Community Schools - Cohort 2

Management

It is helpful as we're facing complex issues. Reflection is something we don't take a lot of time for in the normal day to day stuff.
~ Rodney Green, East China School District - Cohort 3

I believe that I will be able to become part of a network of educational leaders, and that network will continue to inform my actions. The "assignments" of the Courageous Journey have enabled me to put some systems change issues and actual projects on the front burner, made them a daily priority as opposed to those things I will get around to doing when I find the time. There is never found time, only the time that I intentionally carve out of the day and I am able to carve more intelligently now.
~ Ellen Bonter, Mason County Eastern Schools - Cohort 4

Courageous Journey has the potential to transform Michigan schools. By helping superintendents to re-invest in their districts, our state has a chance to raise the bar for students and prepare them for the new economy. By using a Level 5 leadership model of accessing the collective knowledge, experiences and wisdom of the learners themselves, CJ instructors have made the learning contextual and relevant. Reading pertinent research, using an inquiry approach in a trusting environment and having substantial dialogue encourages a deep-thinking format which leads to the long-term implementation of effective programs in our districts. Learning, thinking and always questioning what we are doing in our districts are all paramount in this program. It would be difficult to overstate the positive impact this program has had on me personally as well as the potential impact it is having on Michigan’s schools, and more specifically, student achievement.
~ Bill Ei, Potterville Public Schools, Cohort 2

I find that building reflection time into the daily schedule does not work, as it gets bumped by the latest issue needing response.  The retreats for the quarterly CJ meetings help, and sitting in front of the computer typing as I am doing right now for the blog gives space to reflect.
~ Michael Murray, Suttons Bay Public Schools – Cohort 3

Politics 

I have been fortunate to have a mentor during my eight years of growth as a Superintendent.  Ironically, he was even Superintendent of the year for the State of Michigan two years ago.  Although he has taught me many things, probably the two most valuable were: 1.) Being a good listener, and 2.) Drawing upon the strengths and knowledge of others outside the boundaries of your own district.  C.J. is certainly linked to #2.
~ Roger Rathburn, Three Rivers Community Schools - Cohort 4

If a board member were to ask me what I am getting out of the Courageous Journey I would respond that I am not only getting additional training and experience, but I am able to interact and share ideas with colleagues across the state solving the same problems and fighting the same battles.
~ Russell Pickell, Flat Rock Community Schools - Cohort 4

In this challenging economic climate in Michigan, we are experiencing a highly charged political process at all levels of government; and also within our district. “Politics” is simply about stakeholders competing for scarce resources.  In public education, decisions are being made every day that cut to the core of what we do. It takes strong leadership to remain focused and measured in what we do…creating powerful learning environments for all we serve. No matter the economic challenge, we must stay on message that “learning” is our fundamental purpose.
~ Randy Davis, Marshall Public Schools, Cohort 3

Politics: If you think politics don’t matter, you’re wrong! And if you think our lobby corps is all we need – wrong again. Grassroots political action really does affect change and CJ relationships provide a platform for a focused, powerful political action initiative. Leadership is about relationships. It’s about open, honest lines of communication between colleagues and across all levels of the organization. It leads to better and more lasting decisions in the best interest of students, staff, and community. CJ is providing the tools that have helped me strengthen these lines and improve virtually all processes.
~ Rob Olsen, Sturgis Public Schools - Cohort 4

My Learning and Professional Growth

Courageous Journey is the very best professional development! It is job-embedded, strategic, and practice-based.
~ Cheryl Wojtas, Gaylord Community Schools, Cohort 3

Learning from and with others is a valuable process. It is inspiring to hear how others are addressing similar issues. Our business is about learning and we need to lead the way…always learning.
~ Craig Fiegel, Plymouth-Canton Community Schools, Cohort 4

My Board is very interested in the ROI in the time and money invested in CJ. They are also curious as to what it is that can cause me to give up my participation in the annual Solo Chicago-Mackinac sailboat race. My answer is that this project causes me to be more reflective in my practice. It is also my PLC, and this business is too complex for a person to go it alone.
~ Michael Murray, Suttons Bay Public Schools – Cohort 3

Other real benefits to being in the program are the materials and people we have access to. If you would have asked me 3 years ago if I would be driving in my truck listening to an audio journal about instructional leadership I would have said you were nuts. I don't wait by the mailbox every month for the next journal but I do make copies and share with our team and Board members. Some of our Board members are starting to get what we are all about. I am finishing my 23rd year as a Supt. in 3 different districts and we have been successful in all 3 of them. I thought I had all the answers and I did, but many of them were wrong. I am a much better supt. today because of the program. 
~ Dave Peden, Southgate Community Schools - Cohort 2

What do I get from the Courageous Journey?
Relationships and networking . . .
intellectual stimulation and growth . . . and positive assets to my toolkit for leadership and systems thinking.
~ George Heitsch, Avondale School District - Cohort 2

While we all have colleagues, other superintendents, in the county or in our athletic leagues, CJ provides another peer group that goes well beyond the usual referent groups. 
The inhibitions that sometimes exist with colleagues close to home are non-existent when we interact or at least dramatically reduced with CJ participants. It is much easier to relax and expose our vulnerabilities with those who we know are in much the same position and facing the same or similar challenges.
~ Rob Olsen, Sturgis Public Schools - Cohort 4

The position of superintendent is difficult for those not in the position to understand. Courageous Journey provides the opportunity for a fellowship created by leaders coming together as learners reflecting on their practice, allowing us to return to our districts as re-energized leaders better able to meet the challenges. Knowing there is a supportive network available is an invaluable resource that develops from this fellowship.
~ Brenda Wilson, Gobles Public Schools, Cohort 3

Since I am a new superintendent - finishing up my first year - the CJ process provides me with two things. First, it gives me a chance to meet and network with other superintendents. I can learn from there experience and ask questions that I can't ask anyone else in my district. With my CJ colleagues I can express doubt and know that I can get support from others who are in a similar position. Second, the CJ process forces me to reflect upon my own practice. Am I doing things well? What am I learning? How can I improve? The CJ process is allowing me to ask these and similar questions. In the end it allows me to grow and become a better leader for my district.
~ Steve Matthews, Grand Ledge Public Schools - Cohort 4

CJ is the best process of personal improvement that I have been involved in. The chance to work with outstanding leaders and achievers has been inspiring. Having the ability to share and listen is essential to the learning process. It is a powerful time of reflection, growth and change.
~ Chris Stephens, Hopkins Public Schools, Cohort 3

I am just completing my 8th year as Superintendent. During those eight years, the workload seems to have increased significantly. Some of the additional work is attributed to the elimination of several positions in an effort to balance the budget. Additionally, legislation and accountability from the Federal and State government has increased dramatically. Ultimately, this has significantly reduced or limited the time I have available to attend workshops, conferences and meetings with other Superintendents. CJ has provided me an opportunity to draw upon the strengths of others in a structured setting. Also important, it provides some level of emotional stability to deal with the stress that comes with navigating through some of the most challenging times Michigan schools have ever faced. Lastly, it ensures that I continue to grow as a professional with some degree of accountability.
~ Roger Rathburn  Three Rivers Community Schools - Cohort 4

The access to and conversations with "experts" have been huge. By sitting in a room and talking face-to-face, we can get past the formality of a group presentation and really understand the concepts. Even though it has been years since Lance Secretan presented, I still have mental pictures and words from some of the dinner conversations.
~ Mike Gaunt  Chassell Township Schools, Cohort 1

After three years of being involved with Courageous Journey, I can very easily and forthrightly share with all board members the value of Courageous Journey in my on-going, Life-Long Learning efforts as Superintendent. What Courageous Journey has done for me has helped me with professional and social networking.  I’ve been able to “sharpen my skills” in areas that I knew I was intensely committed to, but through Courageous Journey, was able to crystallize the efforts and streamline the process. I can ensure that the district is producing significant changes in student learning opportunities and student achievement. To that end alone, I am eternally grateful to Courageous Journey. On the social networking side, I’ve had the pleasure to meet and interact with outstanding superintendent colleagues.  To appreciate their situations and concerns and appreciate their commitment and zeal for their students and their school districts is remarkable.  I have learned more than I have shared with anyone.
~ Len Rezmierski, Northville Public Schools, Cohort 1

My board members have asked me, "How is the Courageous Journey going?"  I stated, "The Courageous Journey has encouraged me already to implement or re-implement some practices that will make me a better superintendent." 
In addition I have already done something new because of the conversations I have had with colleagues at CJ.  I had a luncheon with all of my seniors to encourage them to go out and make a difference in the world.  I gave a two-minute talk (one kid timed me!) about how to impact our world in a positive way. I think that the opportunity to reflect on my effectiveness (or lack thereof) in a context of peer support and encouragement is extremely valuable.  I am seeing positive results already.
~ Jerry Jennex, Capac Community Schools - Cohort 4

The Courageous Journey to me has been my academic and professional support group. The leadership modeled has provided me with direction, support and courage to make the tough decisions necessary for district growth and my personal development. All of my colleagues and facilitators from CJ have provided me with "my own private" (available to all CJ members) brain trust. This wealth of experiences, knowledge and know how has assisted me in exploring the best practices of the gurus.
~ Joseph Trimboli  Lawton Community Schools - Cohort 2

What do I get from the Courageous Journey?  The ability to challenge my thought process outside the framework of an isolated rural district, a chance to learn from peers outside the county superintendent meetings where we all are competing with each other and it is my experience that the conversations are very protective.  Plus, CJ is an avenue for certification.
~ Kyle Griffith  Morenci Area Schools - Cohort 2

It is very comforting to know that I am not alone in this work and there are others that you can share your ideas with or just vent when you need it. I have so much respect for all of you as colleagues and our role models.
~ Sue Zurvalec  Farmington Public Schools - Cohort 2 

Couple things I get out of it:
1. Relationship building with other superintendents
2.  Reflection time built into the sessions.
Listening to other supts talk about issues they're dealing with is usually helpful in several respects to me.  I get this in other situations too, at the county level, and at conferences.  The reflection time is something I don't do too much in the other situations I'm in.  I do build in reflection time in my daily work, but it is helpful to reflect with others and try to build a plan to attack issues that are relevant.
~ Rodney Green  East China School District - Cohort 3