Dr. Nihat Guvercin has been the CEO and founder of iLearn Schools Inc., since 2008. To learn more about his educational background, please visit Dr. Guvercin’s professional biography.
This interview has been edited for brevity and integrity.
What does effective leadership mean to you in the context of education, and how has your leadership style evolved over the years to meet these requirements?
Being a strong leader in education revolves around achieving results and ensuring each student has opportunities to succeed, especially in challenging environments. It demands dedication, hard work, and unwavering belief in every student’s potential.
My leadership style has evolved so it centers more on fostering an inclusive environment, encouraging innovation, resilience, and persistent exploration of better learning methods.
Managing and nurturing staff is integral. Valuing their growth beyond just teaching skills, understanding them personally, and fostering connections is vital. Supporting teachers not only aids their development but significantly impacts student learning.
Effective education leadership requires a balance. Prioritizing outcomes while caring deeply for individuals—all staff and students—is key. My approach now combines educational expertise with a focus on character and relationships, fostering an environment where growth and well-being thrive alongside academics.
Can you share a specific example of a challenging situation you faced as a leader in the education sector and how you navigated it to achieve a positive outcome?
I faced tough scenarios—one during rapid school expansion and another during the COVID-19 pandemic. With growth, maintaining quality and retaining staff became challenging. Teamwork, careful planning, teacher training, and adapting methods to our network’s needs helped us succeed.
COVID-19 impacted every facet, demanding solutions for learning loss and mental health struggles. We swiftly shifted to remote learning, updated the curriculum, and prioritized mental health support. Flexibility, innovation, and a commitment to community well-being guided our response.
We continue to tackle ongoing pandemic-related hurdles, emphasizing the vital role of adaptability and strong leadership in navigating education complexities.
In a rapidly changing educational landscape, how do you ensure that your organization remains innovative and responsive to the evolving needs of students and educators?
Staying at the forefront involves several key aspects. First, our teachers need to continue learning and growing through training, workshops, and conferences, ensuring they excel not just in understanding but in using the latest educational tech and methods.
Next, keeping our curriculum dynamic and pertinent is crucial. Regular assessments and updates align it with current educational needs and standards, incorporating feedback from both teachers and students.
We prioritize staying connected with all stakeholders—students, parents, teachers, and the wider community–using surveys and discussions, so we gather diverse perspectives and ideas.
Lastly, our ethos revolves around embracing new technology and innovative teaching approaches. It’s not solely about having the newest gadgets but fostering a culture of experimentation and exploration. These efforts empower iLearn Schools Inc. to deliver exceptional education that adapts to changes and meets the needs of both students and educators.
Could you describe a memorable mentor or leader from your own educational journey who influenced your leadership philosophy? How have their lessons shaped your approach to leadership?
Dr. Aaron Graham, an exceptional mentor and former Superintendent for Bergen County, profoundly impacted my leadership perspective. His simple yet powerful advice reshaped my approach.
During a visit to his office adorned with certificates, he shared his key to success: “Always prioritize what’s best for the students in every decision.” This principle resonated deeply—the idea that students should be the focal point of educational choices.
Whether decisions involve tech integration, curriculum development, or strategic planning, the “students-first” mindset prevails. It’s a principle ingrained in everything I do. By upholding this principle in my role, I ensure every step taken serves the students’ welfare and success.
