1 rich Libsyn https://www.libsyn.com 300 600 Jeff Kubiak sits down with Dr. Sara Stone, Superintendent of Albany Unified School District in California’s East Bay, to discuss what it takes to lead meaningful change while building trust with a school community. With 32 years in education, Sara reflects on her journey from classroom teacher to superintendent and the lessons she has learned about leadership, collaboration, and putting students first. The conversation explores Albany Unified’s $63.8 million Measure L bond, which passed with 72% voter approval, and how the district is approaching facility upgrades, wildfire resilience, HVAC improvements, and modernized learning environments. Sara discusses the importance of community engagement, making difficult decisions when funding cannot cover every need, and ensuring that student and family voices help shape the process. She also reflects on the challenges of her first year as a superintendent, the unique experiences of women in educational leadership, and why leaders need to slow down, build relationships, and bring people along rather than rushing to implement change. Key Takeaways: Build relationships before pushing for change Effective leadership starts with listening, understanding the community, and building trust. Leaders need to create shared understanding before moving forward with their ideas. Slow down and bring people along Even when leaders see a problem clearly, meaningful change takes time. Sara reflects on learning to question her assumptions, remain open to other perspectives, and work collaboratively rather than rushing toward solutions. Student-centered leadership means knowing every child Schools need to understand each student’s strengths, needs, and experiences. Looking beyond overall performance data helps leaders identify who is being served well and who needs more support. Community trust shapes long-term investment Albany’s Measure L bond passed with 72% approval, supporting investment in school facilities. Sara explains how surveys, town halls, and ongoing conversations helped the district understand community priorities and plan for its facilities needs. Leadership requires support and the willingness to listen The superintendency can be an isolating role, and even experienced educators face a learning curve. Sara shares the value of connecting with fellow superintendents, leaning on mentors, and recognizing that leaders do not have to navigate every challenge alone. About Dr. Sara Stone: Sara Stone is the Superintendent of Albany Unified School District and received her doctorate through UC Berkeley’s Leaders for Equity and Democracy program. With 32 years in education, she has dedicated her career to creating equitable, inclusive, and joyful learning environments where all students can thrive. Sara began her career as a teacher in Redwood City before serving as a founding principal in Oakland, a principal in both Oakland and Boston, and later as Network Superintendent in Oakland. Her leadership experience also includes serving as Chief Academic Officer in Alameda, Vice President of Teaching and Learning at Chabot Space &amp;amp; Science Center, and Assistant Superintendent in Ravenswood City School District. She now leads Albany Unified with a focus on equity, rigor, and belonging for every student. Episode 356 of the Better Learning Podcast Our Partners Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) Education Leaders' Organization Second Class Foundation EDmarket Catapult @ Penn GSE Want to be a guest speaker? Submit a request on our website. Better Learning Podcast http://betterlearning.libsyn.com/website <iframe title="Libsyn Player" style="border: none" src="//html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/43273573/height/300/theme/custom/thumbnail/yes/direction/forward/render-playlist/no/custom-color/88AA3C/" height="300" width="600" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen></iframe> https://assets.libsyn.com/secure/item/43273573