In this episode of Stories from the Field, host Doug Roberts is joined by Iranetta Wright, Superintendent Emeritus of Cincinnati Public Schools and founder of The Wright Way Leadership Group. This no-fluff, all-substance conversation covers what it takes to drive student outcomes and sustain yourself as a leader in today’s educational landscape.

Wright shares how her tenure in Cincinnati defied the norms: leading the district to its best academic outcomes in over 15 years and outperforming peer districts and the state in both reading and math. She breaks down her action-based leadership model, grounded in strategic planning, coaching, and authentic assessment, and now used in school systems across the country.

Wright also speaks candidly about post-superintendency life: launching leadership cohorts, mentoring educators from multiple states, and staying deeply connected to classrooms. She reflects on the joy of student interaction, the power of mentorship, and the non-negotiable need for self-care. Her message is clear: you can’t pour from an empty pitcher, and outcomes follow when leaders lead with intention, balance, and heart.

Key Moments
00:00 Leading with Resilience Means Making Space for Empathy
01:00 How Cincinnati Beat the Odds on Reading and Math
02:58 Founding The Wright Way Leadership Group
04:55 Leadership Cohorts for Real Change Not Just Theory
05:56 Why I Miss the Kids Most”
09:10 Self-Care Is a Leadership Strategy, Not a Luxury
14:03 Mentors Who Shape and the Mentoring We Owe Forward
17:45 Superintendent Text Threads as a Lifeline
19:26 Keep Doing the Work Even When the Politics Get Loud

Why You’ll Love This Episode:
Iranetta Wright doesn’t just talk about leadership—she lives it. From turning around student outcomes to building national leadership networks, her work is rooted in clarity, compassion, and real results. If you're navigating high-stakes roles in education, this episode will leave you energized to lead with purpose, invest in people, and protect your own well-being along the way.

Connect with Iranetta Wright
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iranetta-rayborn-wright-00053937
Website: https://www.cps-k12.org/

Follow & Subscribe
Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-roberts-iei
Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/

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