On The Way To School

In this episode of On The Way To School, Dr. Chris Dennis launches the new "Dear Graduate" segment and focuses on the idea of the finish line as a real but recurring transition. He encourages graduates to view completion as a handoff to the next version of themselves, to be intentional, ask questions, and use available resources without striving for perfection.He also reflects on life after advanced degrees—how research can be applied through practice, consulting, or publishing, and how the boundaries of academic work change after graduation as you move into new phases of professional life.

As the school year ends, leaders face heightened accountability—contracts, budgets, enrollment, and outcomes drive tough conversations across independent schools.Use data and clear policy, anticipate questions, and explain context rather than react defensively. Dissect power dynamics, avoid stonewalling, and be willing to find answers to build trust and keep staff engaged.

Dr. Chris Dennis discusses the May 1 college deposit deadline and the emotional journey students and families face when admissions results don’t match expectations.He explains reach, target, and safety school strategies, shares personal stories about supporting seniors through disappointment, and encourages embracing the opportunities at the schools that say yes while building resilience and perspective.

Dr. Chris Dennis examines grade inflation since the pandemic, its effects on college admissions and student equity, and why authentic grading matters.He explores challenges teachers face, the role of clear rubrics and family communication, and urges K–12 and higher-ed collaboration to restore credibility and fairness in grading.

In this episode Dr. Chris Dennis explores the difference between achievement and growth, and how traditional standardized tests can miss the varied forms of student capital. He discusses community cultural wealth, the limits of single-point assessments, and practical strategies—like interim testing and mixed methods—to capture longitudinal progress.Dr. Dennis also emphasizes creating culturally affirming environments that let all students demonstrate growth, and the importance of clear communication with families about what assessment scores actually represent.

Dr. Chris Dennis explores the value of being content in your role and resists the pressure to constantly chase change. He offers three practical reminders: applaud your accomplishments, give yourself grace, and cultivate identity beyond work.This short episode encourages educators and administrators to recognize their impact, celebrate milestones, and find fulfillment both inside and outside the workplace.

Dr. Chris Dennis explores three practical elements of effective collaboration in schools: clear roles and responsibilities, knowing your capacity and when to step in, and navigating power dynamics that affect teamwork.These brief, actionable tips are designed to help educators and leaders improve partnership, protect professional boundaries, and keep focus on student outcomes.

Dr. Chris Dennis discusses how to respond when you’re passed over for an opportunity—encouraging self-reflection, identifying fixable truths from the process, and seeking coaching to recover.He offers personal examples and practical steps for educators and administrators to regain perspective, learn from the experience, and prepare for future opportunities.

Dr. Chris Dennis breaks down three practical strategies for educators entering the job market: work with a coach to prepare, aim higher than the obvious next step, and use warm introductions to build trusted connections.He also offers to connect listeners with coaching referrals and gives quick guidance on presenting a positive narrative during interviews.

Dr. Chris Dennis shares a quick, practical guide to returning after spring break with three simple steps: prepare your week, process what the break meant to you, and make room for play.He discusses how to recalibrate your focus as a leader, offers upcoming episode topics like job hunting, and reflects on the launch of Lonely Graduation.