))
Dropouts Down, Test Scores Up: Philly’s Blueprint for School Success
Manage episode 490396244 series 3529553
Content provided by Strategos Podcast Network. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Strategos Podcast Network or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://ppacc.player.fm/legal.
In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Dr. Tony B. Watlington, superintendent of The School District of Philadelphia, for a candid and energizing conversation about transforming one of the nation’s largest and most complex public school systems. Live from the Council of the Great City Schools Conference in Dallas, Dr. Watlington reflects on his first three years at the helm of Philadelphia’s schools—highlighting early wins, key strategies, and the relentless drive behind “Accelerate Philly,” the district’s ambitious five-year strategic plan.
Drawing on nearly three decades of PK-16 leadership, Dr. Watlington shares how strategic hiring, community engagement, and unwavering focus on student achievement are driving progress. Under his leadership, Philadelphia has seen gains in academic performance, graduation rates, and teacher and student attendance, while dropout rates are on the decline. But this isn’t just about numbers—Watlington’s personal connection to the students he serves is clear: “This is not just a job. It’s personal.”
The episode dives into three core priorities reshaping the district: accelerating academic achievement through aligned curriculum, improving customer service and community responsiveness, and building authentic partnerships with families. Davis and Watlington also discuss the importance of collaborative leadership, union partnerships, and creating a team of “first-round draft picks” to move the district forward.
Key Moments
03:45 Strategic Growth and Achievements
07:21 Outsider Superintendent's Success Strategy
12:08 Accelerating Academic Achievement Initiatives
14:31 Improving Customer Service Feedback
16:41 "Aligning Local Delegation for Community"
21:07 Guidelines for Effective Leadership
22:28 Doc's Leadership Transforms Philly
Connect with Dr. Tony B. Watlington
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-b-watlington-sr-ed-d-a14b845b
Website: https://www.philasd.org/leadership/
55 episodes
Share
