With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility: Lessons from Indian Hill EVSD

Recently, school leaders from across the nation gathered in the Cincinnati suburbs to learn from the remarkable team at Indian Hill Exempted Village School District (EVSD). The AASA Innovation for Transformation Consortium kicked off at the Cincinnati Museum Center, which Indian Hill EVSD CEO/Superintendent Kirk Koennecke aptly dubbed the “Hall of Justice.” This metaphor set the stage for the days filled with inspiration, collaboration, leadership and a shared vision for the future of education.

Attendee group photo in front of the Cincinnati Museum Center. Photo edited by Wonder Media Education.

From the outset, the atmosphere was electric. Attendees engaged in lighthearted introductions, sharing not only their professional backgrounds but also their favorite superheroes. This playful approach underscored a crucial point: while individual school leaders possess unique strengths when they unite as a team—much like a league of superheroes—the potential for positive impact multiplies.

Throughout the consortium visit, the themes of leadership, support, and a commitment to enhancing the educational landscape for children were consistently emphasized. AASA worked with Koennecke and his team to invite innovative educators from around the country, fostering an environment ripe for collaboration and networking. This collective wisdom and dedication to student success demonstrated the immense power of shared leadership.

One of the highlights of the visit was a deep dive into Indian Hill EVSD’s strategic plan and personalized learning initiatives. Attendees explored dynamic learning environments designed to ignite student engagement and creativity. However, it was the students—dubbed “Student Ambassadors”—who truly stole the show. These young leaders proudly led tours, showcasing their favorite projects and sharing firsthand accounts of their educational journeys. Hearing their authentic voices was a powerful reminder of why we are all in this profession: to empower students and inspire lifelong learners.

The Innovation for Transformation Consortium visit reaffirmed the value of being part of the AASA community. True leadership is a continuous journey, marked by a commitment to learning and growing alongside peers. Each visit to diverse districts enriches our understanding and strengthens our collective mission to serve students, staff, and communities effectively.

It is our duty as educational leaders to harness our collective strengths and strive for transformative change.

In the realm of education, the mantra “with great power comes great responsibility” resonates deeply. It is our duty as educational leaders to harness our collective strengths and strive for transformative change. Together, we can cultivate environments where every student thrives and every educator feels supported.

The insights gained from Indian Hill EVSD serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of collaboration, innovation, and student-centered practices in our school districts. As we continue to connect and share best practices, let us embrace our roles as superhero leaders committed to improving education for all. The possibilities are indeed limitless when we work together.

From L to R: Superintendent Glenn Robbins (NJ), Superintendent Nick Polyak (Ill.), K-12 Leadership and Career Development Director Jeff Damadeo (Ohio) and AASA Director Debbie Magee (Va.)