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Mmc Tom Hagley
Chief Communications & Public Engagement Officer, Education Week "Leader to Learn From," WASA "Most Effective Administrator," Georgia Bulldog
Professional Background
Tom Hagley is a notable figure in the field of education, renowned for his transformative leadership and commitment to fostering community engagement within school systems. Currently serving as the Chief Communications & Public Engagement Officer at Vancouver Public Schools, Tom has earned widespread recognition for his innovative initiatives and ability to connect families with educational resources. His strategic foresight is demonstrated through the establishment of Family-Community Resource Centers (FCRCs) in high-poverty schools, an initiative celebrated by Education Week as one of the 13 U.S. Leaders to Learn From in 2016. These centers, along with mobile FCRCs designed to aid additional schools, have been pivotal in demonstrating how educational institutions can actively better serve communities by overcoming disadvantages faced by students.
Tom has also played a crucial role in securing essential funding for Vancouver Public Schools. Over the past nearly three decades, he has successfully provided leadership in election campaigns for 11 operating levies, three capital bond programs, and two technology levies, generating approximately $2 billion for the district. Voter support for these measures has been notably robust, ranging from 60 to 72 percent, reflecting the trust and support from the community.
His dedication to fostering positive communication within the educational landscape is further evidenced by receiving the 2011 Leadership Through Communication Award, an accolade recognizing his exemplary leadership in enhancing communication strategies across the Vancouver school system and the community. Tom's commitment to educational excellence has significantly contributed to the overall performance and reputation of Vancouver Public Schools.
Education and Achievements
Tom Hagley's academic journey began at Prairie High School, where he earned a Diploma in General Studies. He then pursued his passion for history and communication by obtaining a Bachelor of Arts in History from Whitman College. Further enhancing his expertise in public relations, he pursued a Master of Mass Communication (MMC) at The University of Georgia. This strong educational background laid a solid foundation for his impactful career in communication and public engagement within educational institutions.
Throughout his illustrious career, Tom has been honored with several prestigious awards, highlighting his exceptional contributions. In recognition of his efforts to implement high-performing characteristics in educational settings, he received the esteemed Robert J. Handy Most Effective Administrator Award from the Washington Association of School Administrators in 2016. This award underscores his effectiveness in driving operational excellence and ensuring positive outcomes for students and the community.
Tom's initiatives have also received accolades from various educational organizations. Notably, the Family-Community Resource Centers initiative garnered the Vancouver Public Schools a District of Distinction Award from District Administration magazine in 2014, along with three Magna Awards from the American School Board Journal.
Adding to his professional achievements are his contributions to numerous publications, where he has been quoted in well-respected media outlets such as Education Week, Business Week, and the Harvard Education Letter. His insights and analyses have provided valuable perspectives on issues facing educational systems and the role of community engagement in enhancing student success.
Community Engagement and Leadership
Tom's expertise extends beyond administrative roles; he has actively engaged with various organizations and institutions as a presenter and consultant. His commitment to educational improvement is matched by his enthusiasm for sharing knowledge with future leaders at professional associations, colleges, and universities. Through these engagements, Tom has inspired countless individuals to bridge the gap between education and community resources.
Part of Tom's interaction with the broader community includes organizing special events for visiting dignitaries that range from political figures like George W. Bush and Laura Bush to thought leaders such as Madeleine Albright and Tom Brokaw. Such events highlight his ability to create platforms that bring attention to educational initiatives and foster collaborations that ultimately benefit students.
Through his various roles and unwavering dedication to improving the educational landscape in Vancouver, Tom Hagley has established himself as a leading force for positive change. His career narrative is a testament to the impact of strong leadership and community involvement in educational initiatives. Tom's ability to foster relationships, advocate for necessary resources, and utilize effective communication strategies has transformed the educational experience for many, proving that engagement between families and schools is essential for overcoming adversity and achieving educational excellence.