Claiming Counselor Leadership – Navigating the Invisible Operating Systems of Schools
Keynote Session
In international schools, counselors wear many hats, often with little authority but immense responsibility. So how do you lead when your role is both essential and misunderstood?
Grounded in the Cultures of Dignity philosophy, Rosalind Wiseman draws from three decades of work to guide counselors in understanding and navigating the Invisible Operating Systems—the unwritten rules, cultural norms, and power dynamics that quietly shape every aspect of school life. These systems often dictate who gets heard, how conflict is handled, and whose well-being takes priority.
Rosalind will introduce the concept of Generous Authority, a leadership approach rooted in trust, dignity, and clarity—not control. You’ll explore how to lead with credibility across cultures and silos, even when you’re not in a formal leadership position.
You’ll leave with:
- A deeper understanding of the invisible systems that influence school dynamics—and how to make them visible
- Tools to lead with prestige rather than power, earning trust rather than demanding compliance
- Concrete strategies to build student-educator relationships rooted in dignity, not just respect
- Scripts and mindset shifts to help you de-escalate conflict, advocate effectively, and set boundaries
- Guidance for counselors to elevate mental health and belonging as school-wide priorities
- A framework to claim your leadership role—without waiting for permission
This keynote will give you language, tools, and a renewed sense of clarity to lead from where you are—with confidence, courage, and connection.
About the Keynote Presenter
Rosalind Wiseman is the best-selling author of nine books, including the New York Times bestsellers Queen Bees and Wannabes—the inspiration for the Mean Girls movie and musical franchise—and Masterminds & Wingmen, named Best Parenting Book by Books for a Better Life.
Currently, she serves as a senior leadership consultant at the US State Department’s Office for Overseas Schools which serves over 195 schools throughout the world and a consultant at the Texas Science Behavior and Mind Institute. She contributed to David Yeager’s recently published book 10 to 25: A Groundbreaking Approach to Leading the Next Generation And Making Your Own Life Easier.
