Hi! I’m Jacob Owen, and welcome to Learning to Lead Live Blog. If you’re here, I imagine you share my fascination with education and the countless ways it shapes individuals, communities, and society. As an educator, I’ve always been deeply motivated by the idea that every interaction, every lesson, is a chance to make an impact—a belief that has fueled both my work in the classroom and my passion for this blog.

My journey in education began in a classroom that could have been anywhere in the country. I was a young teacher, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves as I set foot in a room full of high school students. At that moment, I realized the incredible responsibility I had to not only teach but also to guide these students in developing skills that would serve them for life. Those early years weren’t easy, but they were transformative, and they gave me an appreciation for the diverse, sometimes complex challenges teachers face. This foundation also planted a seed in me: the idea that true leadership in education comes from shared knowledge, continuous growth, and most of all, connection.

Over time, I noticed how essential it is for educational leadership to evolve alongside technology. When I first introduced digital resources into my classroom, the response was mixed. Students were thrilled, but I could sense that the shift was new territory for many of my colleagues. Some worried about the impact of technology on student focus, while others wondered about its role in the curriculum. I shared these concerns, but I also saw technology as an incredible opportunity to engage students in ways we never could before. Those early experiences taught me that part of leadership in education means embracing change thoughtfully, adapting with both excitement and caution.

Sustainability has also become a key focus in my approach to education. While it started with a few simple recycling initiatives in my school, I soon realized that sustainability in education is about more than recycling or energy conservation—it’s about creating enduring systems and values. I’ve led discussions on incorporating sustainable practices within school policies, not only to teach students about environmental responsibility but to emphasize the importance of making choices that benefit the community. I hope that Learning to Lead Live Blog serves as a resource for teachers and leaders who want to build a culture that values both knowledge and stewardship.

On this blog, you’ll find insights into teaching strategies, ideas for building a positive school culture, and tools for professional development. My goal is to share experiences and practical tips that I hope will be as useful to you as they have been to me. You’ll also see guest posts from other educators who offer fresh perspectives and unique expertise. Education is a field that thrives on diversity, and I believe that sharing stories from a variety of voices helps us all grow and better understand the path ahead.

At Learning to Lead Live Blog, I aim to create a space where educators, leaders, and anyone passionate about learning can connect and collaborate. It’s a space for those of us who believe that education is more than a profession—it’s a commitment to helping others grow, and in the process, learning a little more about ourselves. Whether you’re here to explore new teaching strategies, discuss the latest in EdTech, or engage with issues that shape school culture, I hope you’ll feel at home and leave with fresh insights and a bit of inspiration for the journey ahead.