Leading with Purpose: A Superintendent's Journey on the Wind River Reservation

An Imperfect Leader

Jamie Almanzán and I are thrilled to announce today's guest on An Imperfect Leader is Superintendent Deb Smith of Fort Washakie Schools in Fremont District 21 on the Wind River Reservation, Wyoming. A proud member of the Eastern Shoshone Tribe and descendant of the NORTHERN ARAPAHO TRIBE INC, Deb has been recognized for her leadership, including being featured in the WYOMING ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS' Women Leaders series in 2023. ✨

In this conversation, we dive into Deb’s experiences growing up between two worlds, her role as a trailblazer for Native students, and her efforts to bridge cultural understanding in education. We also discuss how she’s working to meet the needs of her community and students—particularly through harvesting the collective wisdom and cultural respect.

Listen in for powerful insights on equity, leadership, and community resilience.

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At the end of every interview we have for teacher candidates, we say, “What questions do you have for us?” And they always ask, “What kind of support can I expect?” And we always say, “Don't worry, we'll give you a mentor.”

That's where partners like EdConnective step in. They provide real coaching, observations and feedback with practice. EdConnective ensures that every student thrives by facilitating exceptional educator growth. If you're looking for support for your people, for your leaders, for science of reading efforts, for recruitment and retention initiatives, check out EdConnective.com.

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Imperfect Leaders! Are you facing challenges filling open Speech-Language Pathologist positions within your district? Empat Speech understands the critical need for qualified professionals and partners with school districts with a menu of options.

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An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com.

Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley.

Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly.