The Scoop

Dr. Essence Deming-Rivers Dr. Essence Deming-Rivers

The Sarasota County School Board Just Gave Us a Perfect Example of How NOT to Lead

On January 20, 2026, the Sarasota County School Board voted to affirm cooperation with ICE—a move leaders called 'ceremonial' but research calls 'catastrophic.' Leadership isn't about making political statements; it’s about creating the conditions where those you lead can thrive. We’re using our Culture Capacity Framework to audit this decision, exploring the data-backed ripple effects that occur when fear enters the classroom. From plummeting test scores to teacher burnout, find out why this resolution is a masterclass in how NOT to lead, and what it truly costs a community when trust is traded for theater.

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