Episode 35: The Blueprint: Todd Bloomer’s Educational Leadership Journey on Balancing Family, Leadership, and School Culture!

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What makes a school leader decide to step away when they still love what they do? Former high school principal Todd Bloomer opens up about his nearly three-decade journey through education and the wisdom he gained along the way.

Todd's story begins as a New Yorker who packed everything into a Geo Prism and moved 1,800 miles to teach in Texas without ever having visited the state. His leadership philosophy was born in a seventh-grade Texas history classroom when a student candidly asked why he should care about rainfall in El Paso. This moment forced Todd to rethink his entire approach to education, shifting from textbook regurgitation to student engagement and voice—a principle that would guide his entire career.

As Todd advanced from teacher to assistant principal to principal, he developed what he calls the "Bloomer Triangle of Success," emphasizing the importance of soliciting voices from teachers, parents, and students. He shares practical strategies for building strong school culture, from strategic hiring practices that value community connections to his commitment to visiting every teacher's classroom daily. His Monday morning emails—always starting with personal stories about weekend activities and restaurant recommendations—became a touchstone that built authentic connections in a large high school with nine buildings.

Unlike many educators who leave due to burnout, Todd made the difficult decision to retire from his beloved principalship at Winston Churchill High School while still passionate about the work. He recognized that the all-consuming nature of high school leadership requires complete dedication, and he wanted to ensure his school received the leadership energy it deserved. Now transitioning to Director of School Leadership for the Archdiocese of San Antonio, Todd offers candid advice about balancing family life with the demands of school leadership.

Whether you're an aspiring administrator, veteran principal, or teacher considering a move into leadership, Todd's authentic insights and practical wisdom offer a blueprint for not just surviving, but thriving in educational leadership. Check out his book "The Blueprint: Survive and Thrive as a School Administrator" to learn more about his journey and the lessons that can transform your leadership approach.

The Blueprint: Survive and Thrive as a School Administrator:

Todd Bloomer's Website: 

Connect with Todd Bloomer on his social media platforms: 

 X- @bloomer_sa

LinkedIn- @Todd Bloomer

Instagram- @Todd_Bloomer_Author

Tik ToK- @todd_bloomer_author

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