Name: Claubentz Dieujuste

Title: Principal

Organisation: United Charter High Schools

Claubentz Dieujuste is a seasoned leader with over 15 years of experience driving innovation and fostering growth in diverse organizational settings. As a visionary strategist, he specializes in translating data-driven insights into actionable solutions, empowering teams, and cultivating inclusive cultures.

Claubentz is passionate about professional learning, leveraging his expertise in program design and facilitation to inspire individuals and achieve transformative outcomes. A certified ScrumMaster and personal development coach, Claubentz combines technical proficiency with emotional intelligence to navigate complex challenges and deliver meaningful impact. He holds advanced degrees in Educational Leadership and Secondary Education and is committed to advancing equity and excellence across all endeavors.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Educational Leadership!

I hope Claubentz's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as an Educational Leader?

In today's rapidly changing world and with advancements in technology, I find it particularly challenging to help everyone understand the necessity of evolving our educational practices and designing more effective learning experiences.

2. How did you become an Educational Leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

My educational journey is one of legacy, as I have followed in my father's footsteps. During my childhood, I aspired to become a doctor. However, while in college, I worked as a tutor on campus and returned to my high school to help other students. Through these experiences, I discovered a love for teaching. After graduating, I decided to pursue a career in the classroom, and the rest is history. I cannot imagine my life without this work, which gives me a profound sense of purpose. I now refer to it as my ministry.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

Working in a school, my days can be unpredictable. However, I structure my schedule from a weekly perspective, prioritizing the most important and urgent matters each day. Upon waking up, I spend some time in prayer and meditation before browsing my emails to get a sense of what the day will be like. After getting ready, I say goodbye to my family and take my son to high school before heading to work.

My workday is filled with meetings, coaching sessions, classroom visits, and other commitments. After work, I go home, have dinner, and spend time with my family to catch up on the day’s events. I then take some time for myself, whether it’s reading, writing, or watching TV. Before bed, I do a final check of my work emails, spend a moment in prayer, and then go to sleep.

4. What's a recent lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of as an Educational Leader?

Change takes time and requires patience.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your journey as an Educational Leader so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted you?

Many books have impacted my educational journey, but one that stands out is John Maxwell's 'Leadershift'. This book has been particularly helpful during challenging times as an educational leader, especially during the pandemic. It emphasizes the importance of being nimble and adaptable for leaders to thrive and succeed. As I transitioned from one school system to another during that period, *Leadershift* helped me regroup, refocus, and redefine my leadership approach.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young educator who aspires to be an Educational Leader, what would you say to them?

Start with your "WHY." This work is essential but can be challenging. Your efforts will become much more difficult if they are not in line with your "WHY" and your purpose. Additionally, surround yourself with people who understand your vision and can help enhance it.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as an Educational Leader, so far?

In my journey as an educational leader, I have experienced countless joyful moments, as well as some challenges. Recently, a particularly meaningful moment was witnessing my students being inducted into our Academy of Information Technology. As we begin to reimagine our school and the educational experience we offer our students, it brings me immense joy to see our vision come together. It's inspiring to hear both students and adults discussing the positive impact that such a structured program, after much planning, has on our school community and the potential it holds for the future.