Coach and Collaborator

Cynthia Cardenas taught classes for almost 20 years before becoming an instructional coach and administrator. Now in her third year as principal of Orchard Elementary in Orem, Utah, she strives to ensure that students gain the knowledge, skills, and dispositions essential for success.

A Spanish dual-language immersion school, Orchard celebrates all students and their cultures to help them accept responsibility for their own growth and contribute to the community. Students get involved in their own learning through ongoing, personal goal-setting and self-assessment.

Cardenas gathers information from stakeholders constantly, meeting with parent committees at least five times a year to solicit feedback on school priorities. Providing resources and strategies to help students succeed, interactions cultivate kindness, respect, and resilience.

Principal magazine asked Cardenas about leadership and collaboration. Here’s what she said:

What goals do you have for your school that drive your approach to the job?

My goal is to ensure that every child learns at their highest level in a safe, joyful environment. Achieving this requires teamwork. We establish conditions in which teachers can work together to gather relevant data and make informed decisions.

What hidden talents do you have that aid in your leadership role?

I was born curious—I love exploring and discovering new things. Curiosity fuels my passion for learning; the more I learn, the more I crave knowledge.

What is the best book you’ve read in the last year (for personal professional development)?

My most recent go-to books are Visible Learning: The Sequel by John Hattie and Collective Leader Efficacy by Peter M. DeWitt. Both have been instrumental in identifying best practices and moving my school forward.

How do you gather meaningful feedback from families and caregivers?

I start by building relationships. I meet with parent committees, hold informational meetings, and use surveys to solicit specific feedback. I try to keep things concise to get the exact feedback needed with the most participation. Information is power—it informs good decisions.

How do you incorporate the culture and heritage of EL students into the classroom and school?

We help each child feel like they have a place at our school. I ask teachers to reflect on their practice with questions such as, “What are you doing in your lesson that identifies with the cultures of your students? Do they feel like they belong?” It’s essential for students to feel proud of their identities and backgrounds.

What do you like to do in the off hours?

My top priority is my family; I love spending time with them. Cooking and baking are some of my favorite activities. I also enjoy traveling and exploring in my free time—learning about new places’ past and present rejuvenates my soul.

What is the best “leadership moment” you’ve had since becoming a principal?

When we look at data, we see students, not numbers. Rather than working on a percentage of the whole group, we look at each student and their progress. These are the best moments I have been a part of at my school.