How to Lead a School Through Crisis Without Losing Yourself
Every school leader eventually faces a crisis. It may be a budget cut, a sudden spike in violence, a public health emergency, or a political storm. In those moments, leaders are expected to keep the school steady, protect students, reassure families, and support staff, all while carrying their own private fears and fatigue. The challenge isn’t just surviving the crisis. It’s doing so without losing yourself in the process.
Focus on What You Can Control
In times of crisis, the list of problems can feel endless. Leaders often burn out by trying to solve everything at once. Instead, concentrate on what you can actually influence, safety, communication, and clarity for your staff and students. When people see a leader who is steady and decisive about the things within their reach, it builds confidence in the entire community.
Communicate With Honesty
Silence breeds fear. Overpromising creates distrust. The strongest leaders speak with honesty, even when the truth is hard to hear. Share what you know, acknowledge what you don’t, and outline the next steps. Crisis doesn’t demand perfection, it demands credibility.
In his memoir, Dr. David L. Snead recalls a defining moment as superintendent of Detroit Public Schools when buildings were deteriorating, the district faced massive scrutiny, and billions of dollars in bond money were on the line. Instead of hiding behind press releases, he walked into community meetings and spoke directly with parents, pastors, and neighborhood leaders. Some nights were filled with anger and suspicion. But by facing the people, answering hard questions, and admitting what resources the district did and didn’t have, he built trust. That transparency not only got the bond referendum passed but also laid the groundwork for repairing schools across Detroit.
Protect Your People, Protect Yourself
A leader who sacrifices their health and sanity during a crisis doesn’t serve anyone for long. Taking time to rest, leaning on trusted colleagues, and setting boundaries are not weaknesses, they are survival skills. Dr. Snead himself admits the stress was overwhelming at times, but he grounded himself in scripture and reflection to keep perspective. You can’t be the anchor for others if you’ve already drifted.
Keep Students at the Center
During chaos, it’s easy to become consumed with logistics and politics. But schools exist for students. Ask yourself: How will this decision affect the child who shows up tomorrow morning? Returning to that central question again and again helps guide decisions that honor the mission of education, even in the darkest times.
Conclusion
Leadership during a crisis is not about having all the answers; it’s about showing courage, compassion, and clarity when others feel unsteady. By focusing on what you can control, speaking honestly, and protecting both your people and yourself, you not only get your school through the storm, you grow stronger as a leader.
For more stories of resilience and student-centered leadership, read Dr. David L. Snead’s memoir, Urban School Warrior. From Detroit to Waterbury, he shares forty years of leading through crisis without losing sight of students or self. Urban School Warrior is now available in paperback and eBook format on Amazon. You can order today on Amazon, secure your copy, and discover what true student-centered leadership looks like in the face of crisis.