Her Story
About Arria
Arria Coburn serves as Chief Academic Officer for Hartford Public Schools in Hartford, Connecticut. In this role, she oversees academics and instruction through the Department of Teaching and Learning, as well as special education, student support services focused on college and career readiness and MTSS systems, data and accountability, and strategic planning. Her work spans the full pre-K through 12 experience, encompassing academic achievement, social-emotional learning, and parent, family, and community engagement. Coburn began her career in education in 2006 as a special education teacher after earning an undergraduate degree in criminal justice from Northeastern University and working in group homes, a police station, homeless shelters, and the Department of Youth Services. She advanced to assistant principal, principal, and principal supervisor before assuming her current position. A reflective and transformational leader who practices servant leadership with integrity, Coburn grounds her decisions in the needs of students and works to elevate student and parent voices. She credits mentors including Dr. Steve Mahoney, who modeled leadership centered on core values and going above and beyond for students, and Judy, who emphasized staying grounded and congruent amid multiple priorities.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Arria
01What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My best mentor was Dr. Steve Mahoney, a former principal. He modeled leadership from his core values, always thinking about kids and what they need, going above and beyond without letting adult stuff get in the way. He led by example, sticking outside the box so kids get what they need. Another mentor, Judy, was reflective and helped me stay grounded with her phrase 'let's get congruent' when I was juggling too many priorities.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
If you have dreams and aspirations, go for them. As women, we don't have to choose between being a mom and having a career - it's an 'and'. You can do both and not feel guilty. My kids spent time at school and learned about work-life balance, perseverance and grit. Have structures to close out the day so you can be present at home as a wife and mom.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One challenge is making sure to elevate student voice and parent voice authentically amid heavy adult-focused meetings and work. I remind myself I'm in this for the betterment of students and push myself to think about their experiences and needs.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I anchor my values in being a servant leader with integrity, always grounding decisions in the needs of students. I strive to be a reflective, transformational leader. On a personal level, I'm more silly and carefree, but professionally I'm charged to give my very best.
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