Her Story
About Katy
Katy King is the Director of School Improvement. She began her career as an elementary school teacher, instructing fourth grade and later third grade while serving as a team leader. Seeking to impact education on a larger scale, she earned a master's in educational leadership with a principal preparation degree and transitioned into an academic advisor role. King later became a principal, where she focused on building positive climate and culture, leading her school from near failure to the verge of the top 10 percent of schools in the state. She now works at a grander scale as Director of School Improvement, supporting principals and educators across the district. King holds a doctorate and a superintendent's endorsement. She attributes her success to her drive and competitive nature, which motivates her to prove doubters wrong and help others achieve great things. Her values include integrity, perseverance, and open-mindedness, and she advises young women entering the field to be confident, stand tall, and speak with conviction.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Katy
01What do you attribute your success to?
My drive. I am competitive to a fault and have always wanted to prove someone wrong and show that I can. It also motivates me to help everyone with me prove that they can do great things.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
When someone tells you you can't or they doubt you, work twice as hard and prove them wrong.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be confident even when you are not. Stand tall. Have conviction when you speak, and people will listen.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Polarizing views and perceptions of education are tricky right now. The court of social media makes it tricky for educators. Many educators don't feel supported, and as an administrator it's my job to lift them up to empower kids so they don't get worn out.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, drive, perseverance, and open-mindedness. Don't give up even when it's really hard. It's important to be open-minded and listen twice as much as you speak.
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