How To!
Living at Odds | 2. An Education in Opposition
Apr 15, 2025
Stacey Woolley, former PTA president and Tulsa School Board member, shares her journey from opposition to collaboration with Deborah Gist, Superintendent of Tulsa Public Schools. They discuss their rocky start and how the challenges of COVID-19 transformed their relationship. Insights into the ideological tensions in education reveal the importance of communication and understanding. Together, they illustrate how perseverance and empathy can lead to effective collaboration, even in a politically charged environment.
45:16
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Quick takeaways
- Stacey Woolley's proactive leadership as PTA president illustrates the power of engaged parents in influencing school governance and decision-making.
- The evolving relationship between Woolley and Superintendent Gist highlights the potential for collaboration and understanding to emerge from initial conflicts in educational leadership.
Deep dives
The Role of Parental Involvement in Education
Stacey Woolley exemplifies the impact of engaged parent leadership within her community, stepping up as PTA president in response to concerns about a new principal. This decision stemmed from her proactive nature and her belief that positive action is more effective than complaining about issues. Rather than remain passive, she sought to ensure that parents’ voices were heard by taking direct action, including meetings with the superintendent of Tulsa Public Schools. Woolley's journey reflects a growing trend where active parenting significantly influences educational decision-making and school governance.
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