Episode Details

A Quick Note to Listeners:

—- The Question of the Week is supported by Summer Pops Math Workbooks.Principals, when students practice math over the summer, math scores go up. What’s your summer math plan this year? A great way to start is by ordering FREE summer workbook samples at Summer Pops Workbooks.com. —-

Before this week’s interview, Will Parker answers a question from a student in Jen Schwanke’s graduate class at OSU.

The question is: What are the most effective strategies you’ve used or seen for retaining high-quality teachers, especially in challenging school environments? (Question from Emily Winship, 7th Grade Teacher, Student in Education Master’s program at the Ohio State University)

Listen in to hear his response and thank you for doing what matters!

Todd Bloomer, a New York native raised by educators, has dedicated his life to the field of education. After starting his career in Texas, he moved to San Antonio with his wife, Sharon, where they raised five children. Todd’s diverse experience in middle and high schools has shaped his unique perspective on education.

As principal of Bradley Middle School and later Winston Churchill High School, Todd built family-like atmospheres, championed student voices, and empowered teachers in their professional growth. An advocate for service-driven leadership, he is an active member of professional organizations like the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals (TASSP) and Raise Your Hand Texas.

Todd is also a passionate blogger and author of the book, The Blueprint: Survive and Thrive as a School Administrator, offering strategies for impactful leadership. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring San Antonio’s amazing food scene with his family. Below is a summary of a conversation between Will Parker and Todd Bloomer about his book,  The Blueprint: Survive and Thrive as a School Administrator. 

Authenticity in Storytelling: 

One of the things that is so moving about Todd’s book is the authenticity in explaining what he has done right as well as wrong. When asked to share some of the lessons he learned moving from an experienced principal in one building to starting over in another, Todd explains that it is important to share your journey while you are currently in that journey. Furthermore, sharing his struggles was important to him so that readers could relate. Another reason Todd feels it is important to be authentic in sharing his experience is that he believes authentic stories help others become better leaders. Being authentic and vulnerable with his audience allows readers to connect with his story and builds rapport with his audience. 

Commitment to Systems:

A commitment to systems is what Todd believes helps leaders focus on areas of their greatest strengths.