An Administrator’s Perspective: What Kids Really Need to Know

Send us Fan Mail What do our children really need to know to be prepared for life beyond the classroom? In this episode of the Black Girls Do Engineer Podcast Back-to-School Series , Kara Branch sits down with educator and administrator Dr.

Sharon for a transparent conversation about what she has learned from seeing education from the administrator’s chair. They discuss the realities facing students, teachers, and families today; the difference between passing and truly being prepared ; and why skills like critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, adaptability, self-advocacy, and technology literacy matter just as much as what appears on a report card.

Sharon also shares her perspective on parent-teacher partnerships, staffing and resource challenges, STEM and career exposure, supporting educators, and the role community organizations and industry can play in helping schools create more opportunities for students. Most importantly, this conversation is not about placing blame on teachers, parents, or schools.

It’s about recognizing that education is a partnership . Teachers are part of the village.

Administrators are part of the village. Parents are part of the village.

And community organizations, mentors, universities, and industry all have a role to play. Because our goal shouldn’t simply be getting our children through the next grade.

We have to prepare them for the world they’re walking into. 🎧 Listen to “An Administrator’s Perspective: What Kids Really Need to Know” anywhere you get your podcasts or on the Black Girls Do Engineer Podcast. Support the show Thank you for listening to Black Girls Do Engineer: The Podcast .

If this episode resonated with you, share it with a parent, educator, mentor, or young person who needs to hear it. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and review —it helps our stories reach more families and future innovators. 📲 Follow us on social @BlackGirlsDoEngineer for behind-the-scenes moments, upcoming events, and community highlights. 💖 Support the mission : Your donation helps us create access, confidence, and opportunity in STEM for girls nationwide. Donate at Because this was never just a program—it’s a promise.