Educational Leader | Speaker | Writer
Leadership is often shaped by the models we carry with us early in our careers. For a long time, I believed that all great leaders shared a particular set of skills—a defined list of attributes that marked them as successful. I understood that people had different temperaments and dispositions, but I assumed that truly exceptional... Continue Reading →
There’s nothing quite like that sinking feeling when you hear a sharp ping on your windshield. That’s exactly what happened to me one day while driving—following a truck, minding my own business, when suddenly, a stone kicked up and hit my car. I wasn’t sure where it struck, but I knew it happened. An hour... Continue Reading →
One of the first leadership graphics I was exposed to was the Eisenhower Matrix. I was a high school student, and I marveled at accessing this gem that would be my method in prioritizing a purposeful focus and managing my time wisely by identifying the importance and urgency of tasks. Of course, focus on the... Continue Reading →
In a bustling village where dreams were as plentiful as the Oak trees, Neil, an ever-aspiring and growing leader, lived. Known for his determination, Neil had a constant hunger to grow as a leader and help others around him. Yet, he often felt there was a deeper level of strength and clarity he had yet... Continue Reading →
I noticed them appearing around the same time my eyesight started to get worse. One minute, I'm surfing the internet highway, and the next, I am taking a test to click on all the pictures with a wheel to continue. I know this test is meant to determine whether I am real or a bot,... Continue Reading →
I've accumulated tricks and tips from my own mistakes and insights from others who travel on airplanes. I have been playfully ridiculed for my early attempts at packing for a few-day conference with luggage that would rival a safari adventure. As I travel more, I have learned how to pack lighter and smarter: A versatile... Continue Reading →
In college, I purchased a beta fish to keep me company in my dorm room. I'd never owned any sort of animal, so it was my first time navigating the waters to care for someone else. With the recommendations from the store associate, I purchased the tank, special beta fish blood worms (not sure if... Continue Reading →
With my recent move to Oakwood, Ohio, I am now right outside Dayton - the heart of aviation! I get the unique and esteemed position to lead in a school district with many active and retired Air Force personnel. I’ve also had the distinct pleasure of being “adopted” by the Military Kids Clubs at both... Continue Reading →
Regardless of the number of years in a position or previous roles held, it is necessary that leaders invest time in building trust among the team and community. I’ve heard it all too often that “trust takes time” as an excuse for making intentional actions in creating trust. Just letting time pass isn’t enough to... Continue Reading →
Today, I officially start as Superintendent for Oakwood City Schools. With an emphasis on the "whole child", we have a vision for social emotional learning that states: We are committed to creating an environment for all students, staff, and families that is safe, kind, collaborative, respectful, and engaging. We envision a school district that... Continue Reading →
Neil Gupta, Ed.D. 