Meet Adam Frank, PhD | Student-Centered Educator, School Principal, Author, Speaker, Consultant, Change Facilitator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Adam Frank, PhD and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Adam, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Currently, I am principal at Palmer Ridge High School in Monument, Colorado and have no intention of leaving public education. However, after publishing my first book with Teachers College Press out of Columbia University, I’ve begun to provide speaking, professional development, and consulting services to school districts, teams, and conferences. I started a 2-minute leadership podcast called EdExpression, which I post on my Twitter account at @DrAdamFrank and @EdExpression and on LinkedIn.

I have several additional books that I am planning on publishing.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have had the fortunate opportunity of working in several school districts doing a wide-range of jobs in my near-20 year career in public education. I’ve been a teacher (all grades 6-12), varsity head coach, dean of students, athletic director, career education coordinator, assistant principal, and high school principal. I earned my PhD in Educational Leadership with an emphasis on transformational leadership and change theory from Miami University (OH). I’ve worked in six schools in five different districts. Recently, I published my first book, “Non-Punitive School Discipline” through Teachers College Press out of Columbia University.

Many people looking at my career might think that I have been very successful and have accomplished a lot. However, I’d like to share that there have been many rejections throughout my career. There are too many schools to mention where I have applied and either never received a call back or was not selected after lengthy interview efforts. There have been a couple times in the past where I was kind of boxed out, unfairly in my mind, from what seemed to be certain job promotions. Through these experiences I’ve learned a couple of valuable lessons. First of all, cast a wide net at seeking opportunities – you miss all the shots you don’t take! Eventually, something will stick, something will fall into place. But, don’t be discouraged. Casting a wide net and learning through the process leads to great things. Secondly, everything happens for a reason. It’s amazing to look back at my career and see how so many of the rejections turned out to be good, and actually paved the road to better opportunities. Also, the learning that happens through the many attempts is invaluable. Lastly, when people look at successful individuals who have accomplished great things or achieved high-ranking jobs, it’s easy to see all of the good. Often, the rejections and discouragement and many failed attempts aren’t seen by outsiders. My encouragement to others is that most successful people have tons of rejection in their journey. It just doesn’t get highlighted and these kinds of people who have found success have learned how to embrace risks, not allowing discouragement to overpower ambition and optimism.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Well, I’ve only lived in Colorado for about a year-and-a-half. I’m originally from Ohio. In Ohio, I’d take them to any high school or college football or basketball game. Ohio has great athletics. I’d also take them to eat some Skyline Chili! In Colorado, if it’s Winter, I’d take them to the mountains to ski. I once heard someone say the best resort is Keystone, the best town is Breckenridge or Vail, and the best skiing is Copper – and I agree! When it’s not Winter in Colorado, it’s great to just be outside – to enjoy the amazing nature, the mountains, the blue sky, warm sun, and lack of humidity. One of my favorite places is Monument Lake, which is less than a mile from my home.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to thank all of the people who have actively mentored and/or supported my personal and professional growth through my career. These include incredible bosses, specific mentors, many colleagues, family, and many excellent books.

Website: www.DrAdamFrank.com

Linkedin: Adam Frank, PhD

Twitter: @DrAdamFrank

Other: I do a 2-minute podcast about leadership, called EdExpression, which I post on Twitter and LinkedIn.