Navigating Post-Pandemic Challenges in Education Leadership: Insights from Dr. Susan Enfield & Dr. Kristi Wilson

This month, the Superintendent Collaborative welcomed Dr. Susan Enfield and Dr. Kristi Wilson, co-authors of On Fire, Under Fire, or Fired: Superintendents in the Pandemic. Their book explores the challenges and leadership lessons from before, during, and after the COVID-19 era, offering firsthand insights from superintendents nationwide.

Both Dr. Enfield and Dr. Wilson bring extensive experience in education leadership:

• Dr. Susan Enfield is the former Washoe County School District (NV) superintendent and spent a decade leading Highline Public Schools (WA), where she championed the Highline Promise to know every student by name, strength, and need. A former teacher and district leader in multiple states, she was named Washington State Superintendent of the Year in 2022.
   
• Dr. Kristi Wilson served as superintendent of Buckeye Elementary School District (AZ) for 11 years and has held leadership roles across education, from special education director to AASA President (2019-20). She was named Arizona’s Superintendent of the Year in 2021 and is recognized as a top thought leader in public education.

Together, they led a discussion on the evolving challenges in education leadership, including political pressures, mental health concerns, and the growing expectations placed on public schools.

Superintendents’ Experiences During COVID-19

Dr. Enfield and Dr. Wilson shared key themes from their book, which features perspectives from over 40 superintendents across the U.S. They emphasized how district leaders navigated:

• Uncertainty and shifting political climates
• Relief funding and resource allocation
• Building a culture of care for students and staff
• Strengthening family and community partnerships
• The increasing pressures on superintendents and the impact of social media

The book serves as both a celebration of superintendent leadership and also a warning about the challenges threatening the profession’s future.

The Lasting Impact of Political and Social Pressures

Superintendents reflected on the long-term consequences of the pandemic and the increasing politicization of public education.

• School Boards & Governance: Many superintendents have left their roles, some voluntarily and others due to political pressures. COVID-era tensions led to atypical school board elections, creating new governance challenges.
• Safety & Backlash: Some shared concerns about threats to safety, underscoring how divisive issues continue to impact district leaders.
• Mentorship & Support: Members also discussed how retired leaders can mentor and advocate for those currently navigating today’s pressures.

The Future of Public Education

The conversation turned to the declining interest in education careers and shifting student behaviors in a post-pandemic world.

• Superintendent Training & Advocacy: Kristi emphasized the need for political training for new superintendents to navigate growing community pressures.
• Strengthening Public Education: Another member stressed the importance of a unified effort to push back against the erosion of public education.
• Lessons from District Turnarounds: Others shared experiences rebuilding struggling districts, offering strategies to align leadership efforts with student success.

Resources & Further Reading

Dr. Enfield and Dr. Wilson’s book, On Fire, Under Fire, or Fired: Superintendents in the Pandemic, offers a deeper look into the resilience and challenges of education leadership. 

AASA/NCE

Finalsite Happy Hour Meetup at AASA!

Date: Thursday, March 6, 2025  
Time: 6:30-8:00 PM EST
Location: Tatlo Speakeasy, 240 Bourbon Street, New Orleans, LA

Join your Finalsite friends for a lively networking happy hour during AASA in the heart of New Orleans. Let’s unwind together in a relaxed, festive atmosphere, New Orleans-style! Swing by after Thursday's final keynote or before your evening plans and enjoy a mix of refreshing drinks, delicious bites, and meaningful conversations with peers and colleagues.

Drop in anytime between 6:30 and 8:00 PM—it’s the perfect way to cap off your day!
Space is limited! Secure your spot - registration is needed!

Save the Date: Next Meeting on March 6

Our next Superintendent Collaborative meeting will take place on March 6. Stay tuned for more details and resources.