Learning from a Champion

By Leslie Cranford, section manager

When it comes to motivation and developing winners, not many people do it better than champion-level athletes and coaches. Texas Tech K-12’s staff and teachers were treated to a professional development session by Texas Tech Lady Raiders head coach Krista Gerlich, who was also part of the 1993 Lady Raiders’ NCAA basketball championship team.

Gerlich’s discussion was part of a day-long learning experience held in September at Alamo Drafthouse, attended by about 60 staff members and full-time teachers. Other presenters were Cari Moye, principal, and Braxton Allison, principal of instruction.

A fun fact about Gerlich’s involvement: Superintendent Scott Lucas and Gerlich have a long history, dating back to their coaching days with the Tahoka Bulldogs.

Gerlich’s topic was servant leadership and how teachers can fill that role. She emphasized different ways to learn, coach and motivate.

“Teachers embody the principles of servant leadership by prioritizing the needs and development of their students, leading with compassion, and fostering a supportive learning environment,” Gerlich said.

The coach also shared the Lady Raiders’ team pillars of passion, purpose and pride. Her personal story of winning a national championship and leaving Texas Tech with a degree exemplified her passion, noting how much she loves being a Red Raider. She urged the staff to be passionate and to challenge students every day.

Gerlich’s purpose is empowering women to be brave, secure and confident.

“A teacher’s purpose is to empower, encourage and educate their students,” Gerlich said. “They should also inspire growth, and many will change lives by doing so, even virtually.”

Lastly, regarding the pride pillar, she urges people to be proud of accomplishments and to encourage the next generation to give back. Gerlich specifically challenged this group to influence students, support colleagues and strive for excellence in everything they do.

Moye covered enrollment information for the new semester and staff family updates, including two advisers and an instructional design team member who welcomed babies, one adviser who is due “any day,” and a marketing team member expecting twins this winter.

Allison’s presentation, targeted toward the teachers, covered mastering workplace communication, including effective communication, active listening, and their importance in an online learning world. He touched on clear and concise messaging, adaptability in communication style, using the right tone, effective written communication, navigating difficult conversations, encouraging dialogue, and more. His three key insights were: Don’t take a bad day out on others, think before speaking or writing, and don’t steal others’ joy.

The day closed with a screening of “Good Will Hunting, which won a vote among the staff when given a list of education-related movies. The 1997 film also aligned with Allison’s training on communication, empathy and active listening. The movie showcases how teachers can listen to their students and colleagues with empathy, ensuring that their responses are thoughtful and supportive. It also portrayed how, with respect and clear communication, there can be productive outcomes.