What Leaders Are Saying

"After thirty-four years in the profession that I LOVE, I came to the startling realization that a dramatic transformation had to come about if I were to be considered at least proficient in the role that I was assigned! I had been considered the ‘Expert’ in educational matters in my region for many years; in fact, a majority of the current decision makers had toiled under my tutelage at some point in their career. I would comfortably saunter into their offices and command the room as they ‘delicately’ revealed instructional strategies. The atmosphere was very much one of the student receiving instruction from the mentor — a mentor that, at times, could be brutally honest and even critical of thought processes, but nevertheless, the mentor that was always listened to and respected for his insight!

In June of 2024, I was asked to transition from the ‘Expert Mentor’ role to the ‘Executive Coach,’ a strategic move that would require an ‘Internal Transformation’ for me in order to create a different external atmosphere for clients that I was assigned to coach. No longer was I to be revered; instead, THEY needed to be respected. It was no longer an emphasis that my self-proclaimed ‘Nuggets of Wisdom’ be heard, but instead that THEIR wants, needs, fears, and desires for their districts be Heard, Valued, and Appreciated!

A CHANGE had to occur, and I am so grateful that I had my Escalate Coach and the entire Escalate Team to walk with me as the Transformation unfolded! Thank you!"

Mr. LeRoy Mitchell

Mr. LeRoy Mitchell

Director of TSL and Executive Coach at Region 18

What Superintendents Are Saying…

  • "There are 100 valid excuses not to make time for Executive Coaching, but impactful leaders will make this a priority. You owe it to the organization you are tasked to lead, but, more importantly, you owe it to yourself."

    Mr. Richard Kelley, River Road ISD

  • "Jump on this coaching! You will not regret it."

    Dr. Paul Uttley, Stratford ISD


  • "So worth it!"

    Dr. Julia McMains, Canadian ISD

  • "Coaching has been thought-provoking and it is very uplifting to interact with someone truly concerned about your welfare."

    Mr. Monty Hysinger, Dumas ISD

  • "Coaching has had a transformative impact through the ability to have a trusted individual to talk through issues and know that the feedback will be on point."

    Dr. Paul Uttley, Stratford ISD

Echoes of Impact

  • “Over the years I have had the privilege of participating in many professional development trainings, but I can say, without doubt, that the Executive Coaching training has been the most impactful and transformative of them all. Executive Coaching serves as an avenue for cultivating strong leadership abilities as well as building deep and meaningful relationships. Few professional development trainings can boast that!”

    Suzie M.
    Executive Coach, Former Superintendent

  • “This experience has taught me the power of presence, of listening, and of holding space. It’s helped me become a better leader, a better colleague, and honestly, a better human. This isn’t just professional development. It’s personal transformation.”

    Dr. Cathy Lauer
    Texas Strategic Leadership Lead Executive Coach, Field Services, Region 13 ESC

  • “The training I have received to serve as an executive coach has been transformative, not only for those I work with, but also for my own personal and professional journey. The strategies, tools, and methodologies have deepened my understanding of human behavior, communication, and leadership dynamics. The training and coaching have reinforced the value of empathy, active listening, and asking the right questions to inspire meaningful change.”

    Candra Clary
    Lead Strategic Integration Liaison, Region 16 ESC

  • “The coaching and training provided has been life-changing for me. The understanding of the coaching mindset has changed my life because of how it adds value to the lives of others.”

    Leadership Coach
    Texas

  • “I am deeply grateful for the transformative experience of executive coaching, a true embodiment of servant leadership. It goes beyond providing guidance, unlocking individual potential through a personalized, empathetic journey. This approach touches the essence of who we are, not just acquiring skills but uncovering strengths and aligning actions authentically. Executive coaching, with a servant leadership mindset, creates lasting change and empowers individuals to shine brightly. I wholeheartedly endorse its power for profound self-discovery and professional growth.”

    Sue S.
    Executive Coach

  • “This past year of engaging in executive coaching has been one of the most meaningful parts of my professional journey. I’ve been reminded again and again that coaching is as much about human connection as it is about strategy or structure. It’s a space where trust, reflection, and honest conversation can spark real growth -- for others and for me.”

    Dr. Cathy Lauer
    Texas Strategic Leadership Lead Executive Coach, Field Services, Region 13 ESC

  • “Escalate/Region 16 has done a tremendous job in guiding the process of Executive Coaching. Their approach and the resources that they have gathered for us has made it possible to quickly gather information and move forward. Kudos to a great job by a great team!”

    Jan W.
    Executive Coach, Former Superintendent

  • “Coaching is truly the BEST personalized professional development you can do.”

    Stacie Opahle
    Executive Director of Learning Services, CESA7