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No More Copy + Paste: The Strategy Behind Issaquah’s District Transformation
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In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Issaquah School District Superintendent Heather Tow-Yick to explore how bold leadership, systems thinking, and a relentless commitment to student opportunity are redefining the traditional K-12 experience in Washington state.
Now in her third year at the helm, Tow-Yick brings a dynamic and nontraditional background—from teaching in the Bronx to leading strategic initiatives at Teach For America and Providence Public Schools. Her approach in Issaquah is anchored by a belief in excellence, access, and systemic innovation. At the heart of this episode is a deep dive into Issaquah’s Gibson Ek High School, a model for project-based learning, mastery-based transcripts, and community-integrated internships that’s reshaping how students engage with their education.
Tow-Yick shares how her district is scaling this work beyond a single site, launching “Kickstart” internships for students across comprehensive high schools and strategically using resources to prioritize what matters most. She also reflects on building a culture of care rooted in collaboration—moving from kindness to coherence through her “Stronger Together” ethos.
From navigating declining enrollment to harnessing AI and driving academic equity, Tow-Yick offers candid insights and replicable strategies for superintendents facing the future of education head-on. Whether you’re a school leader, policymaker, or lifelong learner, this conversation is a masterclass in courageous, adaptive leadership.
Key Moments
03:57 Innovative Education Model Success
08:04 Launching Kickstart Internship Program
12:18 "Access and Opportunity Challenges"
14:52 "Stronger Together Through Kindness"
16:46 "Daily Growth Through Challenges"
19:17 Heather: Exceptional Leader & Partner
Connect with Heather Tow-Yick
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/htowyick
Website: https://www.isd411.org/
53 episodes
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