About this episode
In this episode, Jeff speaks with Gustavo Balderas, the superintendent of Beaverton School District in Oregon. Jeff and Gustavo discuss leadership, education’s evolving landscape, and creating impactful systems for student success. Gustavo shares his inspiring journey from a migrant background to becoming a nationally recognized educational leader. Fun twist . . . Jeff was the superintendent in Beaverton, which added a delightful twist to their discussion. Learn about the challenges and strategies in modern educational leadership, the importance of equity, and the significance of building strong professional communities. Don’t miss this insightful episode filled with practical advice and heartwarming stories about the power of education.
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Dr. Gustavo Balderas is superintendent of the Beaverton School District in Oregon. He is a nationally recognized educator known for his equity-driven leadership and proven track record of ensuring all students achieve academic success, as well as social-emotional growth. He is president of AASA, the School Superintendents Association, and has earned numerous awards, including the ALAS 2021 Champion for Equity Award, the 2020 Oregon Superintendent of the Year Award from the Coalition of Oregon School Administrators, the National Association of Bilingual Educators Superintendent of the Year, and the 2020 National Superintendent of the Year Award from AASA.
Dr. Balderas has served as superintendent in various West Coast school districts. He has also been a teacher, counselor, assistant principal, principal, district administrator and assistant superintendent.
Dr. Balderas is a first-generation son of Mexican immigrants who worked in the agricultural fields of California, Oregon and Washington. “I understand first-hand some of the barriers that students face in Beaverton schools — those in poverty and those navigating a new language and culture. These experiences will help me connect with students and families and help identify ways to meet the needs of our students furthest from educational justice.”