Martina McPhail, Assistant Director of Enrollment and Director of Financial Aid at Church Farm School, applied for the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education (GSE) School Leadership program to expand her leadership capabilities while enhancing the school’s strategies and practices. Nearly 11 months into the program, which meets biweekly virtually and in-person on the first weekend of each month, Martina reflects on how much she has gained from the experience. “Every project involves analyzing either my own school or a fellow cohort’s affiliated school. It’s been incredibly valuable to learn from others’ approaches while also gaining fresh perspectives on our own school.”
The Penn program brings together faculty and staff from private, public and charter schools to collaborate on various projects, all while learning to serve as leaders in their desired school settings. Martina reflects on one particular group project that led to her collaboration with Church Farm School’s Dean of Academic Support, where they analyzed student reading speed data and explored strategies for improvement. Additionally, Martina highlights her year-long practitioner’s research project, which focuses on using data to enhance persistence among students who lack strong support systems. Drawing on her own experience as a product of private school (Episcopal Academy), Martina theorizes that private school students are uniquely encouraged to ask questions and advocate for themselves. “Within my research, I aim to explore how students can effectively navigate and build confidence within the ‘hidden curriculum’ that exists beyond academics. This curriculum helps foster the private school environment and empowers students to thrive.”
Martina has found the relationships she’s built with fellow school leaders to be invaluable, collaborating with others and visiting several schools, both private and public. This opportunity has also enabled her to hold growth-focused interviews with respected school leaders from across the country and around the world.
“I’m deeply grateful to Church Farm School, especially our Interim Head of School, Tiffany Scott, for their unwavering support in helping me pursue my master’s at the University of Pennsylvania and for the NAES for their generous grant.” she says.