The following was written by Gloria Hayes-Perkins.

Let’s be honest — leading schools today isn’t for the faint of heart. Between shifting federal policies, intense board meetings, and a community that feels increasingly divided, it often feels like we’re walking a tightrope. The loudest voices aren’t always the most helpful, and the policies handed down don’t always make it easier to serve students. But one thing hasn’t changed: Our number one job is to make sure every student can learn in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. That means honoring diverse viewpoints in our communities — but doing so in ways that keep students front and center. Here are some strategies I believe will be successful as the landscape continues to shift.

1. Start with listening (even when it’s hard) You can’t lead through division without understanding it. Community members want to feel heard, especially when they’re frustrated. Instead of jumping to defense mode, try structured listening opportunities that are built around transparency and empathy. Community “Listening Walks,” where leaders visit neighborhoods — not just to speak, but to hear what families have to say — have been successful. These conversations don’t erase disagreement, but they build trust.

Tip: Rotate informal gatherings like “coffee with the principal” through local churches, libraries, and community centers to reach diverse stakeholders.

2. Stay centered on students in every message In polarized environments, clarity of purpose is your best tool. If we don’t define our values and mission, others will define them for us. Adopt a decision-making lens that asks: How does this help our students learn, feel safe, or feel seen? Whether it’s about curriculum, facilities, or hiring policies, that question keeps us aligned and out of the weeds.

Tip: Use simple, consistent language that keeps kids at the center when addressing contentious topics.

3. Protect and normalize equity work DEI isn’t a fad — it’s a commitment to making sure all students have a chance to succeed. When the political climate targets equity language, embed it into everyday practice. Rather than isolate DEI into a “program,” focus on culturally relevant teaching, inclusive hiring practices, and closing opportunity gaps.

When parents question it, your response is simple: This is about making sure every child can read, graduate, and feel safe at school. That’s what equity looks like in practice.

Tip: Focus your equity conversations around student outcomes, not slogans.

4. Navigate rights with consistency and care It’s no longer just about one side or the other — parents are asking questions about everything from transgender rights to curriculum access to religious expression. Consistency is key.

For example, when handling restroom access for transgender students, lean on state law and create additional privacy options for any student who requests them, for any reason. Make it about access and dignity, not debate.

Tip: Consult legal counsel before policies go public. If something is legally sound and clearly explained, it’s easier to stand by.

5. Set the tone at the board level We’ve all seen what happens when board meetings become battlegrounds. Work closely with board presidents to reset the tone. Create a simple community agreement that every meeting opens with, focused on respect, equity, and keeping students at the center. Train board members in trauma-informed public discourse, knowing that many people coming to the mic are speaking from pain or fear — not always logic.

Tip: Start each meeting with a “student story” to remind everyone who we’re serving.

It’s not just administrators feeling the heat — teachers, counselors, and even custodial staff are fielding tough conversations every day. Make sure that professional development includes training on how to respond to criticism, handle parent pushback, and talk about controversial issues in age-appropriate ways.

Tip: Create a safe space for staff to share what they’re experiencing. Sometimes just knowing they’re not alone can be a game changer.

7. Encourage dialogue among students We can’t shield students from every controversy, but we can give them the tools to engage respectfully. It’s appropriate at the middle schools to create “Civic Circles” — clubs where students learn how to discuss current events using protocols like restorative questions and “I” statements.

The result? Students who disagree but still want to work together on other issues. That’s what democracy looks like in action.

Tip: Encourage student-led discussions with adult guidance, not adult control. They’ll surprise you.

8. Celebrate the good, loudly and often In all the noise, don’t forget to shine a light on what’s working. From music performances to robotics competitions to kindness challenges, celebrating joy reminds everyone — staff, families, and especially students — why school matters.

Tip: End every staff meeting or newsletter with one highlight from the week that made you smile. Let people leave on a high note.

Conclusion: Lead with clarity and compassion Polarization is real. Policies will keep shifting. But what won’t change is our responsibility to lead with integrity, transparency, and heart. Even in retirement, I remain deeply hopeful. I’ve seen what’s possible when leaders stay focused on students, center the community in their decisions, and refuse to let fear guide their choices.

Lead with courage. Listen deeply. And remember, schools still have the power to change lives — every single day.

Gloria Hayes-Perkins is a retired educator/administrator who served in Santa Clara Unified, Franklin McKinley and Alum Rock school districts.