A Life of Leadership, Literacy, and Advocacy

When I think about my July guest, there are so many thoughts. She was impacting my life even before I was even aware of it and I know this is true for so many educators. Debbie Diller and I both worked in Alief ISD early in our careers. She is the person best-known for naming and supporting workstations (or centers) when it was a new idea. She has worked tirelessly over the years to support teachers and the staff who support them to understand how rich and wonderful both centers and small group instruction can be. I am honored to call her friend and am so excited for you to see the interview! Tell a friend, like, and subscribe. Click Here!

 I cannot believe we already in May of 2021-almost halfway through this year. If my counting is correct this is the 10th installation of Cup of Capacity and this month's interview is a real treat.  Go here for the interview Longtime education leader Brenda Arteaga is currently the curriculum director for special populations in the Teaching and Learning Center, a division of the Harris County Department of Education. I met Brenda many years ago through friends but it was not until this last year filled with the pandemic and quaranteening that we have become close colleagues and friends. Brenda has a great story and is an example of someone who has not only built her own capacity, but is almost always found building the capacity of others.  She is a 28-year veteran educator who most recently served as superintendent of schools and assistant superintendent for academics at Southwest Schools in Houston. Before leading the state charter schools, she worked in the Houston Independent Sc

  Dr. Lupita Hinojosa c urrently serves as the Chief of Innovation and Equity in Spring ISD. Her role exists to create opportunities for all students from various backgrounds, representing diverse populations, to ensure excellent and equitable outcomes. She is responsible for leading the planning, development, coordination, assessment, and interpretation of educational programs, and supporting 40 schools. Lupita is an active member of the Region IV Texas Council of Women School Executives and has served as its president. She is a first-generation college graduate (a fellow Longhorn), a proud Latina educator, and an inspiration to so many. https://youtu.be/uHNNROS6s10

When you have friends you treasure, they introduce you to new friends who also become treasures. A colleague who works with many literacy leaders across the United States introduced me to Helen Chan Hill.   Helen serves as the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction, and Professional Development for the Pasadena Unified School District. She is also currently a doctoral student at Pepperdine University. Helen is serving in her 22nd year as an educator, coming to PUSD via Teach for America. Her passion for education is influenced by her experience as an immigrant and English language learner herself, resulting in her becoming a vocal proponent of public education, its potential, and responsibility to serve all students. I am thrilled to have you get to know her in this month's interview . https://youtu.be/Qqev9Z9xTks

The poet Rumi said, "Love is the whole thing. We are only pieces." When you meet and talk with Dr. Tracy Weeden , you feel the genuine love she has for all people. It was an honor to have her as my February Cup of Capacity interview.  Dr. Tracy Weeden is a seasoned and passionate leader dedicated to advancing literacy and academic excellence. She has spent her career developing scalable and innovative programs, systems, and teams.  In her current role as President and CEO of Neuhaus Education Center, Dr. Weeden is expanding the reach and impact of the Neuhaus Education Center (NEC) within the State of Texas, and on a national level.  The NEC mission provides evidence-based professional learning to educators, information and resources to families, and adult literacy services. Prior to serving at NEC, Dr. Weeden was the Executive Director of Academic Planning for Scholastic Achievement Partners.  Dr. Weeden spent 5 years as the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instructio

 I am absolutely thrilled to publish January's Cup of Capacity interview. Jill Siler is a leader I not only admire, I now consider her a colleague and friend. I hope you enjoy this as much as I did!