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Assistant Superintendent of Student Services/Special Education Donna Campbell, Ed.D., has been instrumental in building Palmdale School District’s mental health department to focus on social-emotional learning and inclusivity.
Campbell serves the needs of all students
September 4, 2023
Name: Donna Campbell, Ed.D.
Award: Student Services Administrator of the Year
Title: Assistant Superintendent of Student Services/Special Education, Palmdale School District
ACSA highlights: Member since 2008; Treasurer, ACSA Region 15/Antelope Valley (2020-present); Certified ACSA Coach.
Donna Campbell is a true advocate for the needs of students in Palmdale School District and works tirelessly to create schools where all students in this high desert community have the resources they need to be safe and succeed.
She has been instrumental in building the district’s mental health department to focus on social-emotional learning and inclusivity. She recently coordinated a town hall meeting with speakers from the medical, mental health and law enforcement communities, who addressed fentanyl, vaping, trauma and suicide among youth.
Campbell has also instituted a strong restorative justice program which resulted in a major cultural shift from a punitive system to one that resolves disciplinary problems and keeps students in school.
Whether she’s developing more inclusive learning opportunities for special education students, creating community-led systemic change as part of Antelope Valley Resource Infusion, organizing immunization clinics or dropping off food deliveries to families during the pandemic, Campbell’s responsibilities encompass every need her students may have.
“Dr. Campbell, inspired me to be the change I wanted to see in the world,” wrote one 11th grader, reflecting on the impact Campbell had on him when he was a struggling kindergartner. “She gave me wings, when I didn’t know I was a bird, she invited me to see that life is your classroom, and life experiences are the most valuable lessons you will learn.”
What’s your favorite book or quote on leadership?
Peter Senge is a renowned author and scholar in the field of organizational learning and leadership. One of my favorite quotes from him is: “A leader’s job is not to provide answers but to facilitate the process of discovery.” I like this quote because it emphasizes the importance of empowering and enabling individuals to discover their own solutions and insights. As a leader, it can be tempting to simply provide answers and directives to your team, but this approach often stifles creativity and limits the potential for innovation. By facilitating the process of discovery, leaders can encourage their team members to think critically and explore new ideas. This can lead to more effective problem-solving, greater engagement and ownership of the work, and ultimately, better outcomes for the school district as a whole.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
When things might seem overwhelming or stressful, my husband, Anthony, always advises that “nothing lasts forever,” conveying the notion that no matter how challenging or difficult a situation may be, it will eventually change. It reminds me that even in the face of adversity, there is always an opportunity for renewal and growth, which carries a certain level of liberation and freedom. Additionally, growing up my father would constantly say, “If one person can do it; anyone can do it.” The idea behind his statement was that success is largely determined by effort and determination, rather than special abilities or advantages. By believing in our own ability to succeed and committing ourselves to the necessary work and discipline, we can overcome obstacles and achieve our goals, no matter what our starting point may be. His mantra was to work hard, persevere and learn from your mistakes.
What’s your best strategy for work-life balance?
Achieving a healthy work-life balance can be challenging, and is an ongoing process that requires intention, commitment and a certain level of experimentation to find what works best for you, your family and your unique situation. Over the years, I have incorporated a number of strategies, and am trying to be more intentional in creating a balance. Here are a few:
Prioritize tasks: Identify the most important tasks and focus on completing them first. This will help to manage your time more effectively and reduce stress.
Build capacity/delegate tasks: Foster collaboration and provide opportunities for staff to share best practices and learn from each other. Identify tasks that can be delegated and do so appropriately.
Set boundaries and practice self-care: Create clear boundaries between work and personal life, and make time for activities that help you to recharge and relax. Focus on spending time with your family/loved ones, rest, exercise, healthy eating, and being present and fully engaged in the current moment.
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What are some life hacks that you would recommend for a new administrator?
Listen and learn – take time to listen and learn from others, including students, staff, colleagues and the community. Build a support network – connect with other administrators who can offer guidance, support and advice. Take advantage of the offerings from professional organizations such as ACSA for conferences, webinars, legislative updates and other support. Manage your time wisely — create a schedule, set clear goals and use your calendar!
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
People often think that I am a lot more serious than I am. I love music, and in fact, am the self-appointed resident DJ for all Cabinet meetings and excursions. I have a very eclectic taste in music and an extensive playlist that covers just about every genre of music — country, jazz, reggae, Tejano, gospel/contemporary Christian, classical and R&B to mention a few.
What made you want to become a school administrator?
My mother was an elementary school teacher and growing up I wanted to be just like her, and so I set out to emulate her every move. When I became a classroom teacher it was her influence that allowed me to be successful as I worked to educate the students in my charge. I eventually made the change to administration as I sought to make a broader impact working with all students within the district. I wanted to advocate for the needs of the students and work towards creating safe, inclusive and equitable learning environments. Simon Sinek’s quote, “Leadership is not about being in charge; it’s about taking care of those in your charge,” highlights the idea that school administrators must be focused on caring for the students, teachers and staff in their school or district. As administrators, we must understand that our success is directly tied to the success of those we serve.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve overcome to get where you are?
Redirecting my focus from bemoaning the lack of representation of women of color in the role of superintendents or assistant superintendents, to building strong relationships with individuals who are willing to challenge bias and the status quo, and are committed to equity and inclusion.
What are you most proud of accomplishing?
Being married to my extremely supportive husband, Anthony, for almost 45 years, and raising two amazing children, who are also in careers of public service. I am also very proud of the Palmdale School District, and our work to create and implement opportunities for students, support teachers and parents, and create safe and secure learning environments as outlined in our strategic plan, the Palmdale PROMISE.
How has ACSA supported you in your career/current position?
I have been a member of ACSA for over 15 years. ACSA has great academies, workshops and conferences to support every administrator’s needs. I have personally taken advantage of several academies – Special Education, Pupil Services, and Curriculum & Instruction to mention a few, and have attended numerous conferences over the years. These academies and conferences have given me access to tools and information to be successful, and the networking and regional support are outstanding.
How are you prioritizing mental health for yourself, your staff, and/or your students?
Prioritizing mental health requires an intentional approach and is essential for overall well-being. I carve out regular time to engage in activities that bring me peace and joy and lead a healthy lifestyle. I also try to create a welcoming and inclusive stress-free work environment where everyone feels respected and valued, encourage self-care, and create a culture of respect and appreciation.
.2023 Student Services Administrator of the Year Donna Campbell
2023 Student Services Administrator of the Year Donna Campbell.