In the vast ocean of entrepreneurship, few have made waves quite like Daymond John. As the founder and CEO of FUBU, a global lifestyle brand with billions in product sales, John has become a beacon for aspiring business leaders.

His journey from selling hand-sewn hats on the streets of New York to becoming a “Shark” investor on ABC’s hit show “Shark Tank” is a testament to his business acumen and resilience. But it’s John’s role as a presidential ambassador for global entrepreneurship, appointed by Barack Obama, that truly underscores his commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators and leaders.

“Educators are my fellow sharks and angel investors,” he said as he opened his keynote address at UNITED: The National Conference on School Leadership in Seattle.

What makes John’s insights particularly valuable for educators is his personal connection to the power of learning. Diagnosed with dyslexia as a child, John credits his teachers for instilling in him the belief that he could “do anything and everything.”

This experience shaped his perspective on education and success, leading him to develop his five Shark Points—a guide to succeeding in business and life that’s as applicable in the classroom as it is in the boardroom.

Let’s dive into how these Shark Points can transform educational leadership and create schools where both students and staff can thrive.

1. Set Goals: Charting Your Educational Voyage

“If we don’t set goals for ourselves, we let other people set goals for us,” John said.

In education, this principle is crucial. School leaders must craft a clear vision for their institutions, setting ambitious yet achievable objectives. Whether it’s boosting academic performance, enhancing student engagement, or creating a more inclusive learning environment, these goals become the North Star guiding every decision and action.

2. Do Your Homework: The Power of Preparedness

“You can learn from the 99.9 [percent] who have made a mistake,” said John.

For educators, this translates to continuous professional development and staying informed about the latest in pedagogical research and policy changes. It’s about creating a culture of lifelong learning that permeates the entire school community, from administrators to students.

3. Adore What You Do: Passion as the Engine of Education

“True entrepreneurs are driven by their passion,” John believes.

In education, this passion is what propels teachers and administrators through the challenges of budget constraints, policy shifts, and the daily rigors of nurturing young minds. It’s the love for learning and student growth that keeps educators motivated, even in the face of adversity.

4. Remember, You Are the Brand: Leading by Example

“How you present yourself, both professionally and personally, impacts your success,” said John.

For school leaders, this means embodying the values and vision of their institution. Your actions and decisions set the tone for the entire school culture.

As John puts it, on Shark Tank, “We don’t invest in companies; we invest in people.”

In education, staff and students invest their trust in their leaders.

5. Keep Swimming: Resilience in Education

Perhaps the most crucial of John’s Shark Points for educators is the call to perseverance. In a field where change is constant and challenges are inevitable, the ability to “keep swimming” is paramount. It’s about viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth and maintaining momentum towards your goals, even when faced with obstacles.

The Human Touch in a Digital World

As we navigate an increasingly digital educational landscape, John’s wisdom reminds us of the irreplaceable value of human connection.

“AI doesn’t have the power of human connection,” he said, emphasizing that the personal interactions and relationships formed in schools are more impactful than any technology.

John’s journey from a struggling entrepreneur to a “Shark” offers valuable lessons for educational leaders. By setting clear goals, continuously learning, maintaining passion, leading by example, and persevering through challenges, school leaders can create an environment where both students and staff flourish.

How to Keep Thinking Like a Shark

During his keynote address, John talked about putting his experiences as a child working toward entrepreneurship into a book, Little Daymond Learns to Earn. The book aims to make financial literacy engaging and fun for young readers by presenting concepts such as saving, spending, and earning money through relatable scenarios and colorful illustrations. 

He also noted that one of his favorite books is Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. The book suggests that by focusing on a passionate desire, having faith in oneself, training the subconscious to believe in success, and developing a detailed plan, anyone can grow rich.

I can’t wait to encourage my teachers to keep thinking like a shark. Both the SHARK Points Guide and How to Set Goals Like a Shark can help school leaders and teachers hone their vision of success for their school.

To close, John said, “Success is being an educator. Success is waking up every single day and pouring everything you know into our future.”

Fellow educators, let’s embrace these Shark Points and dive into the depths of educational excellence, creating waves of positive change for generations to come.

Todd Brist is principal of Watertown Middle School in Watertown, South Dakota.

Read more session notes in the NAESP Conference Blog.