Diamond View Middle School Principal Dede Heimbigner and Susanville School District Superintendent Jason Waddell will join forces with WestEd consultants Dr. Tamara Hall and Susan Cerese Levenson to present at the 2025 National ESEA Conference this February in Austin, Texas.
Organized by the National Association of ESEA State Program Administrators, the conference focuses on refining federal education programs under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act to support disadvantaged students.
This year’s theme emphasizes student achievement and personal growth, drawing education leaders nationwide.
The Susanville team’s presentation, titled “Fostering Teacher Efficacy Through Intentional Instructional Leadership Practices,” showcases innovative strategies implemented district-wide to tackle socio-economic challenges affecting student success.
Amid significant shifts, including increased trauma and poverty among students, the district faced chronic absenteeism, declining academic performance, and rising suspension rates.
Instead of taking a reactive stance, the district embraced transformative initiatives to strengthen teacher efficacy and drive student achievement.
Key strategies include:
- Regular classroom walkthroughs to provide immediate feedback and support
- Targeted professional development to address specific needs
- Results-driven coaching conversations for continuous improvement
- Enhanced social-emotional support systems for students
- Data-driven planning to inform decisions and measure progress
At the core of these efforts was a teacher-led, classroom-focused action plan that empowered educators to lead transformative changes in their classrooms. These practices not only improved outcomes for students but also strengthened the overall school culture.
In 2024 Diamond View Middle School earned California’s Distinguished School Award, placing the school in the top 4% of all schools statewide – a testament to the dedication of its staff, students, and families.
The presentation will offer practical strategies and insights for school leaders looking to address similar challenges in their own communities. By sharing their story, the Susanville team aims to inspire and equip other educators with tools to create environments where both teachers and students can thrive.