Leading the Way - August 14, 2026

Leading Moments From Across the District

WELCOME BACK BRAVES!!!

Welcome back to the Indian Hill Entrepreneurs’ Center, a space where ideas take shape, passions are discovered, and possibilities become real.

Each year, I am inspired by the incredible work that happens within these walls as our students are challenged to think differently, solve meaningful problems, collaborate with others, and turn their ideas into action. I'm equally inspired by working alongside this incredible team.

More than a space, the Entrepreneurs’ Center represents our commitment to preparing students not simply for what comes next, but to confidently help shape what comes next.

Empowering Student Voice and Amplifying Self-Leadership at IHMS

Last week our Middle School Lighthouse Team (a dedicated group of students and staff who are leading the charge in strengthening leadership, culture, and academic opportunities at IHMS) came together for just over two hours of intentional learning, reflection, and planning.

Together, we explored the 7 Habits and, more importantly, considered how these principles can influence who we are and how we lead, both personally and professionally. Our students (and staff) took time to reflect on their individual strengths, identify areas for growth, and consider how becoming better leaders of themselves can help them become better leaders for others.

At the heart of this work is the belief that leadership begins with self. By developing greater self-awareness, confidence, responsibility, and an understanding of how their actions impact others, our students are building skills that extend well beyond the classroom.

And this is only the beginning.

The learning and reflection from our Lighthouse Team will help propel students and staff into the next phase of their work: developing and advancing BIG ideas connected to the Middle School Future Plan. These ideas will provide opportunities for student voice and staff leadership to come together in meaningful ways as we continue imagining what is possible for the culture, learning experiences, and future of IHMS.

We are excited to see where their ideas lead and, most importantly, to continue creating opportunities for our students to recognize that they don't have to wait for the future to become leaders. They can lead today.

Braves Inspiring Braves: Explore What’s Possible!

What an awesome experience it was last week seeing our IHExp Student Advisory Board members sharing the incredible range of opportunities available through the Indian Hill Entrepreneurs’ Center with our Class of 2030 Braves at Bridges!

There is nothing more powerful than students inspiring students—sharing their experiences, encouraging exploration, and helping their peers see the possibilities ahead. From career exploration and entrepreneurship to leadership and authentic, real-world experiences, the opportunities are endless, and we can’t wait to see how the Class of 2030 makes them their own!

Special shout out to members of IHExp Student Advisory Board who stayed after Bridges to work with students on sharpening their resumes! The year hasn't officially started yet at this point, but they are excited to think more deeply about what comes next!

Purpose Before Practice: Building What Matters Most

Grateful for the opportunity to spend time with so many outstanding educational leaders at the North Point ESC Annual Administrative Retreat last week. I had the privilege of leading two breakout sessions centered on an important question for every leader as we begin a new school year: Who are we, what do we stand for, and what matters most?

Our conversations focused on revisiting and reaffirming our identity and values, then using that shared foundation to shape strategy, align systems, implement the right practices, and create meaningful, measurable outcomes.

When our work begins with purpose, we move beyond simply measuring what students achieve and instead focus on who they are becoming. That shift is where transformational leadership begins.

Thank you to everyone who engaged, shared their perspectives, and challenged one another to think deeply about the impact we can have on every student, every day. We are all better together for our staff and students!



Jeff Damadeo, Director of K-12 Leadership & Career Development

Jeff.Damadeo@ihsd.us

X | @indianhillEC