Honoring Dr. Michelle King

 

 

Those three words are what come to mind when I reflect on my first meeting with Michelle King a decade ago. I was assigned to work with her, in her role as a local superintendent, on the local district’s strategic plan. She didn’t know me and didn’t choose me as a partner. She could have made our situation awkward or difficult. Instead, she welcomed me. She challenged me. She supported me.

 

For the next 10 years, we would cross paths – sometimes on the same side of education politics or policy, and sometimes not. But every time, I was met with a professional who had integrity and maturity.

 

As many of you know, Michelle’s whole life was weaved with LAUSD. She attended Los Angeles schools, was later be employed by LAUSD, where she moved from teacher’s aide to school superintendent. At several points in her career, Michelle could have left LAUSD for more lucrative employment, a less stressful district or one with many more resources. But she never did. She was a devoted Angelino and was committed to serve Los Angeles. 

 

One of the first steps Michelle took as superintendent was a Listen and Learn tour, a tour I am proud to say the L.A. Compact helped underwrite. Michelle visited more than 100 schools and met with students, teachers and parents to discuss challenges and opportunities within the district. She understood well that if you want to go far, you have to go together. That approach takes time, something none of us knew would be the very thing that would rob Michelle of her chance to quite possibly be one of the best leaders LAUSD would have. She was setting the framework to unite us for years to come – she was at the beginning of driving change that was sustainable. 

 

For all of her service, for all of her dedication to a life devoted to our area students, we each have the responsibility to complete this work … and to do so composed, confidently and collaboratively.

 

 – David Rattray

Executive Vice President, Center for Education Excellence & Talent Development

 

 

I am grateful for the Chamber’s connection to great leaders and I reflect on the importance of continuing to cultivate leadership across all facets of our community.