Dr. Fred Rundle, superintendent of Mercer Island School District, discusses the district's unique position between Seattle and Bellevue, emphasizing the community's commitment to quality education. Explore how public schools are adapting to competitive pressures from private and charter schools, with insights into recent initiatives like cell phone policies. Gain valuable leadership perspectives on building and nurturing effective teams, and learn how to foster a culture of continuous growth in educational settings. Key Takeaways: Public education faces increasing competitive pressure from private, charter, and cyber schools, necessitating innovation and community engagement.Dr. Fred Rundle emphasizes the power of storytelling in amplifying the success and progress of public schools to ensure community investment and relevance.Key initiatives like reducing cell phone usage in schools aim to enhance students' learning experiences and social interactions, embodying proactive leadership.Leadership transitions are significant, with each role offering unique challenges and opportunities for growth and impact within the educational landscape.Aspiring leaders should harness opportunities for influence without waiting for formal titles, focusing on developing self-efficacy and fostering meaningful relationships. Connect with Dr. Jim: linkedin.com/in/drjimk Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung Connect with Dr. Fred: linkedin.com/in/dr-fred-rundle-58169235 Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda  Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future. Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe