How a Principal Became Fearless through Coaching

Stacey is an amazing––and humble––leader. I knew she received a big honor from The Board of Directors of the Kansas Association of Elementary School Principals (KAESP) in 2020 as a District AND National Distinguished Principal Award. She didn’t include this in her original answers, but I wanted to acknowledge it. She is the kind of leader you feel privileged to work for and with, and the kind of person you feel honored to know.

1. Who are you and what do you do?

I just celebrated my 31st anniversary with my high school sweetheart, and I’m celebrating 31 years as an educator––the last eight as pre-k through middle school principal. I’m a very family-oriented person and we enjoy doing life together with our children, grandchild, and parents––who all live close to us.

2. What problem did you face before working in a coaching relationship?

At times I’ve lacked confidence both personally and professionally. Ongoing professional development and opportunities for self-awareness have always been important to me because I desire to be a strong leader who assists others in reaching their full potential.

3. How did you hear about coaching?

I first heard about coaching through Twitter. I began to follow INspired Leadership and signed up for the Friday emails. I knew immediately that my values aligned with the coaching offered and this relationship would be a great match.

4. Why did you commit to the process?

I am always seeking growth and I knew I’d be receiving high level leadership. I value the INspired Leadership philosophy, both individually and for groups, so I was committed to investing my time into areas of growth and self-reflection.

5. What results did you achieve through the coaching program?

The small group allowed me to be more vulnerable and to share my heart and experiences. I have a renewed level of confidence in my leadership and my personal life. The 7th level leader accepts, trusts the process, and is present in the moment, and I’m improving in these areas daily.

6. What do you have going on that you’d like to be recognized for, that you’re proud of, or feel confident and excited about?

My staff recently gave me a shirt recently that read “She is Fearless.” Up to just a few years ago I wouldn’t have worn it with the belief if was true. My own growth, as well as individual and group coaching, led me to embrace this about myself. I really do feel fearless. I have several new opportunities available to me in the near future and my growing leadership skills will allow me to be more powerful with my intentions. I know that confidence is not aligned with accomplishments, but it’s a state that comes with trusting myself, and knowing that I can handle whatever comes my way!

Reflect: On a scale of 1-10, how confident do you feel about your leadership abilities?

Journal: To score myself just one point higher, I’d…