Episode 47 - Dr. Frank Rudnesky - The Magic Man
Join Adam and Jeff as we chat with "The Magician!" In addition to teaching at the high school and university levels, Dr. Frank Rudnesky was the principal of Belhaven Middle School in Linwood, New Jersey for a span of two decades. During that time, the school was recognized with numerous local, state, and national awards for leadership, technology influence, excellence in performance, and a positive culture. The school was often used as a visitation site for other educators from as far away as Japan.
Frank has developed, implemented, and studied leadership processes to enhance organizational culture. He has authored numerous books and articles published in the areas of leadership and technology influence. Dr. R. resides in the Jostens Renaissance Educator Hall of Fame and sits on several non-profit boards including the New Jersey Schools to Watch core team.
Frank’s Education Journey
No straight arrow to his path into education
U of San Fran
Started in Magic Shop on Fisherman’s Wharf
Opened up a magic shop in New Jersey,
Got bored and started substitute teaching
Magic was a connector - “what is YOUR connector?”
30 years public educator
“Leadership isn't just for those at the top”
Got connected with others after “retirement”
Started writing down ideas
LEGACY surfboard - given to him by students his last year
Find out what your student’s passions are
Never surfed in his life before 50 years old
“Core Boards” - Leadership Exchanges with other middle schools
Core Boards were an instigation led by students
Wear them and when someone inspires or moves you, write that person’s name on the back and give it to them.
Amazing what happens when you inspire and empower kids
Empower Half Hour
Desire to stay connected in education and leadership
Twitter chat inspired to fit a tighter timeline
Let’s take what we can control, and control.
TWO BOOKS
FIRED UP Leadership
- Added passion to tie all of the domains together
- Focus on the group, not self
- Don’t be afraid of failure; don’t be afraid of success
- Tell stories
50 Great things leaders do?
- Time to make animal balloons
- Started writing stories down from the collective thoughts of the school.
Leadership struggle
Teacher at a high school
Always thought he would be a great difference-maker
Was asked to homebound tutor a student who had cancer
Learned another way of looking at things
Hopeful
Use the optimism of those we serve.
Students engage when we provide choice, love, kindness, etc...
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