Summary: Join C.T. and guest Sean Priest, Principal of Sequoia High School in Redwood City, California, as they explore how a historic school embraces diversity, tradition, and innovation to foster student growth. This insightful conversation delves into Sequoia’s rich legacy as one of the oldest high schools in the Bay Area, its stunning campus, and its commitment to serving a diverse student body with rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) programs.

Key Takeaways:

• School & Community-Sequoia High School is a historic, architecturally stunning campus serving a highly diverse student body, including multigenerational local families and recent immigrants.
• Tradition & Innovation-The school balances its rich traditions and history with a commitment to adopting innovative, research-based teaching practices.
• Curriculum & Learning-As an International Baccalaureate (IB) school, Sequoia offers rigorous, inclusive programs that emphasize critical thinking and knowledge exploration.
• Staff Culture-Lifelong learning, collaboration, and embracing diversity are core values for both staff and students.
• Technology & Change-The school continually adapts to technological changes, from debates about Wikipedia to integrating AI, focusing on authentic and equitable learning experiences.
• Leadership & Values-Sean leads with moral authority and personal reflection, using shared values to communicate goals and foster community.
• Student Engagement-Students take pride in their unique campus, demonstrating responsibility and a strong sense of belonging.
• Leadership Philosophy-Sean adapts his leadership style to different roles and situations, encouraging risk-taking, authenticity, and growth.

Chapters:

0:00  Introduction

00:35  Meet Sean Priest: Principal of Sequoia High School

01:07  Exploring Sequoia High School's Unique Campus and Community

04:49  Balancing Tradition and Diversity in Education

08:25  Challenges and Changes in Education

14:10  Core Values and Leadership Philosophy

29:17  Creating Goals and Accountability in Schools

35:29  Advice for Aspiring Educational Leaders

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Sean Priest: linkedin.com/in/sean-priest-0176b7b2



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