PMP418: Maintaining Your Passion with Wes Cottongim

A quick note to listeners: 

Before this week’s interview, Jen Schwanke and Will Parker answered a listener question in a 5-minute response. 

The question is: What are some best practices in other school buildings to “flatten the walls of the school”? Where did you start on this journey/process?

[The idea of flattening the walls means that all stakeholders feel comfortable in sharing their ideas, and feel valued.]

Will mentions a book you’ll want to check out by David Yeager (an upcoming guest on the show) titled 10-25: The Science of Motivating Young People. 

Listen in for our response and thank you for doing what matters!

Meet Wes Cottongim

Dr. Wes Cottongim currently serves as an Assistant Professor of Education Administration at Western Kentucky University. Before arriving at WKU, Dr. Cottongim spent 20 years serving in a K-12 public school setting.  Approximately 12 of those years were spent in an administrative role (either Assistant Principal or Principal).  Since arriving at WKU, Dr. Cottongim has taught courses for both aspiring and current school administrators.  Dr. Cottongim has focused his research on burnout and self-efficacy of teachers and school administrators.  He has developed a passion for guiding current school leaders through the highs, lows, and sustainability of the profession.

In this conversation with William D. Parker, Dr. Wes Cottongim opens the discussion by sharing his appreciation for the podcast, which he enjoys during workouts and relaxing times at his fire pit. As a former sixth-grade teacher and an advocate for elementary education, Dr. Cottongim highlights his ongoing connection to schools, including refereeing a basketball game at his children’s school post-interview.

Career Journey and Commitment to Education

Dr. Cottongim reflects on his fulfilling career as an assistant principal and principal, emphasizing his goal to be actively involved with his students. Currently a professor, he continues his passion for education by recruiting students into teaching programs and involving himself in new educational initiatives at his university. His tenure as an administrator was especially rewarding when working with multi-handicap students, reinforcing his belief in the value of student interaction.

Leadership Philosophy and Challenges

Wes discusses his belief that everyone, regardless of their role, demonstrates leadership within a team. He shares insights from his journey into educational leadership, including the joys and challenges encountered along the way. One significant struggle he recounts is dealing with severe decision fatigue during a summer filled with a new building project and additional instructional responsibilities, which led to a period of depression.

The Importance of Seeking Help

Dr. Cottongim uses his experience to remind educators of the critical need to seek help when facing obstacles. He credits his recovery and professional growth to the support of his faith, family, and willingness to ask for assistance. Wes underscores the significance of personal care alongside professional development for education leaders.

Advocacy for Leader Well-being

Currently, Dr. Cottongim is active in presenting at education conferences and leadership groups, focusing on the importance of leaders asking for help. He advocates for cultivating practices that allow leaders to admit when they’re overwhelmed and to lean on others for support. Wes emphasizes the need for practices that foster school safety and culture improvement.

Stay Connected

Listen to the entire conversation for even more takeaways! Listeners interested in Dr. Wes Cottongim’s work and insights on leadership and educational practices can connect with him via email at wes.cott