Name: Efrain Martinez

Title: Principal

Organisation: Conrad Fischer School / District 205

Efraín A. Martínez, Ed.D., is a visionary school principal and educational leader. With over a decade of experience as a principal and assistant principal, he has made significant strides in fostering inclusive, student-centered learning environments.

As the leader of Conrad Fischer Elementary, Elmhurst's largest elementary school, he is guided by the motto, "When we do good things, good things happen." Known for his emphasis on people and relationships, Dr. Martínez is a former podcaster with over 200 episodes of Wisdom and Productivity, an educational leadership podcast.

A lifelong learner with a keen interest in philosophy and intellectual thought, he is passionate about professional growth, fostering trust and empathy, and supporting teachers and students in their academic and personal journeys.

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

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

Cheers,

Jonno White

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

The most challenging aspect of being an educational leader is recognizing the importance of relationships. One can have all the wisdom in the world, but without the ability to inspire others and make them feel compelled to act, no significant change can happen. Leadership is not about directing but about influencing through empathy, trust, and genuine connections. Transforming a vision into reality requires engaging others to believe in and contribute to that vision.

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

As a child, I spent considerable time in the principal's office due to frequent mischief and fights, which stemmed from being raised in an abusive household. One day, a principal told me to focus on what I could control—advice I later realized echoed Epictetus, one of my profound influences. This moment stayed with me, and over time, I discovered that my passion lay in helping others become the best versions of themselves. That realization, coupled with my experiences, inspired me to pursue a path in educational leadership.

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

I start each week by crafting a blueprint on Sunday, a habit inspired by Robin Sharma. On workdays, I wake up at 4 a.m., exercise, meditate, and prepare for the day. After making coffee for my wife and embracing my children, I commute to work, using the drive as learning time by listening to audiobooks or podcasts. At work, I aim to be an inspirational leader. On my way home, I call my wife to reconnect, then use the rest of the commute for more learning, which helps me transition into "dad" and "husband" mode. Evenings are spent watching a family show and reading fiction on my Kindle before going to bed early.

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

I’ve been reminded that schools are often structured for children from stable, nurturing homes, like mine, where parents support homework, attend activities, and share meals. However, many students face trauma, regardless of socio-economic status. This reality calls for rethinking education to incorporate principles like, "When you do good things, good things happen," fostering resilience and a positive mindset in all students.

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?

“How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie profoundly influenced my leadership approach. It taught me the importance of actions that positively impact others, from remembering people's names to sincerely caring for them. The principle that “you catch more bees with honey” resonates deeply, as does Lincoln’s thoughtful approach to disagreements. Carnegie’s insights have guided me to lead with empathy, understanding, and genuine connection.

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?

You can read all the books and gain all the wisdom in the world, but to truly understand leadership, you must see it in action. One of the most valuable experiences for me was shadowing successful principals. Observing how they spoke, their body language and their genuine care for others taught me invaluable lessons. Leadership is about connecting authentically, and seeing that firsthand makes all the difference.

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

Early in my tenure as a principal, I faced significant challenges—teachers and students complained, and parents protested. While driving to work one day, I saved a man engulfed in flames, an act that was covered by the Chicago Sun-Times. Shortly after, the tragic death of a student’s sibling triggered a mental health crisis that led me to take a leave of absence.

During that time, I pursued a doctoral program focused on emotional intelligence and shadowed successful leaders. These experiences transformed my approach, teaching me the power of empathetic leadership. I went from being the most criticized principal to being named Illinois Principal of the Year (West Cook Region), a testament to resilience and the importance of growth through adversity.