"Sometimes being first isn't about making history. It's about making it easier for someone else to follow."
Educational leadership often requires courage. For Kendal Askins, leadership also meant stepping into spaces where few people looked like her and carrying the responsibility that came with being a trailblazer.
In Episode 4 of the Teachers Transition Podcast, Kendal shares her journey from classroom educator to educational leader, reflecting on the challenges, opportunities, and lessons that shaped her career.
A Calling to Education
Like many educators, Kendal entered education because she believed in the power of helping others grow.
The classroom became a place where she could influence students, build relationships, and create opportunities for success. Yet as her career progressed, she began recognizing opportunities to impact not just students, but entire schools and communities.
That realization eventually led her toward leadership.
Becoming the First
One of the most significant milestones in Kendal's journey came when she became the first African-American administrator in her district.
Being first brought both honor and pressure.
While the achievement represented progress, it also meant carrying expectations that extended beyond her own performance. Every success and every challenge would influence how future leaders were perceived.
Rather than allowing that pressure to limit her, Kendal embraced the opportunity.
Leadership Beyond Titles
Throughout the conversation, Kendal emphasizes that leadership is not something that begins when you receive a promotion.
Leadership begins long before the title.
It begins when you:
- Advocate for others.
- Build trust.
- Demonstrate consistency.
- Serve with integrity.
- Continue learning.
These principles guided her throughout every stage of her career.
Representation Matters
Kendal's story highlights why representation matters in education.
Students benefit when they see leaders who reflect their communities. Staff members benefit when diverse perspectives are represented in decision-making.
Most importantly, future leaders gain confidence when they can see examples of what is possible.
Lessons for Future Leaders
For educators considering leadership, Kendal's advice is simple:
Do not wait for permission to lead.
Develop your skills, seek mentors, volunteer for opportunities, and continue growing professionally. Leadership opportunities often arrive long before formal leadership positions.
Key Takeaways
- Leadership begins before the title.
- Representation creates opportunity.
- Being first often creates pathways for others.
- Growth requires courage.
- Service remains at the heart of educational leadership.
About the Guest
Kendal Askins
Kendal Askins is an accomplished educational leader, administrator, and executive whose career spans classroom teaching, district leadership, and organizational leadership. Throughout her career she has championed excellence, equity, and professional growth while helping develop future generations of leaders.
Listen to the Full Episode
Teachers Transition Podcast
Season 1, Episode 4