By breaking down systemic barriers, Central Office Administrator of the Year Mary O’Neill Grace has cultivated a safe and inclusive school environment.
Grace promotes lifelong learning for all
August 19, 2024
Name: Mary O’Neill Grace
Award: Central Office Administrator of the Year
Title: Assistant Supt., Educational Services at Anaheim Elementary School District
ACSA highlights: Member since 2000; Region 17 Director of Member Services (2012-14); State Board Member (2015-17);
Equity Committee (2020-22)
Empathy, collaboration, open-mindedness — these values, among others, have guided Mary O’Neill Grace in her goal to support all students at Anaheim Elementary School District. Her fierce belief in “Access for All” and dedication to ongoing professional development for staff provides a leadership model for everyone in the district to follow.
Student success and achievement are some of Grace’s top priorities. Using evidence-based data, she supports gifted learners and students enrolled in the district’s Dual Language Program. Her focus on lifelong learning led her to create Professional Learning Communities at each school site and to help establish the Parent Leadership Institute, which engages parents in decision-making for their children.
Grace has also demonstrated her commitment to equity by leading the Culturally Responsive and Ethnic Studies Task Force and implementing districtwide training on implicit bias. By breaking down systemic barriers, Grace has cultivated a safe and inclusive school environment, said Anaheim Elementary School District Superintendent Christopher Downing.
“She has implemented comprehensive strategies to foster a culture of safety and inclusion and works tirelessly to ensure that every student feels valued, respected and supported in their educational journey,” Downing wrote.
What’s your favorite book or quote on leadership?
Current favorite books: “Think Again” and “Hidden Potential.”
Quote: “We learn more from people who challenge our thought process than those who affirm our conclusions. Strong leaders engage their critics and make themselves stronger. Weak leaders silence their critics and make themselves weaker. This reaction isn’t limited to people in power. Although we might be on board with the principle, in practice we often miss out on the value of a challenge network.” — Adam M. Grant, “Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know”
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Listen more than you talk.
What’s your best strategy for work-life balance?
I belong to a fantastic professional learning network on X called FitLeaders who work on daily consistency. FitLeaders understand the power of small, consistent actions toward achieving their goals.
What are some life hacks that you would recommend for a new administrator?
- Develop strong communication skills. Be clear and concise in your emails and meetings.
- Send follow-up summaries of meetings or important conversations to ensure everyone is on the same page.
- Use tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams for instant communication and collaboration.
- Learn to delegate.
- Identify and understand the strengths of your team members and delegate tasks accordingly.
- Provide clear instructions and deadlines when delegating tasks.
- Trust your team to complete their tasks and avoid micromanaging.
- Focus on and model self-care.
- Set boundaries to ensure a work-life balance.
- Make time for regular exercise and healthy eating.
- Take regular breaks to avoid burnout.
- Maintain a learning mindset.
- Read books on leadership and management.
- Enroll in online courses to enhance your skills.
- Join online professional networks.
What made you want to become a school administrator?
I was not the best student and did not set off to college to become a teacher/administrator. I originally obtained a business degree and found myself working in retail management with high school students. I loved mentoring them and found myself in a predicament that led me back to school where I became a teacher. I feel like my varied experience makes me a better educational leader.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve overcome to get where you are?
Impostor syndrome and self-doubt; feeling inadequate despite my accomplishments.
How has ACSA supported you in your career/current position?
I have attended many — well, all — ACSA Academies; they were timely with content and mentorship. I became active in my region, volunteering to be on the Membership Committee, a state Board member, and the Equity Committee. As I look to retire, I will continue to work with ACSA to support/mentor new administrators.
Mary O'Neill Grace's fierce belief in “Access for All” and dedication to ongoing professional development for staff provides a leadership model for everyone in the district to follow.
Empathy, collaboration and open-mindedness have guided Mary O’Neill Grace in her goal to support all students at Anaheim Elementary School District.