In this episode of Little Wins, host Karen Borchert sits down with Chris Smith, Superintendent of Ellicott School District 22 in Calhan, Colorado. Nestled under the shadow of Pikes Peak, Ellicott is a rural district where Chris’s leadership story comes full circle—he’s not just the superintendent, but also a proud graduate, former teacher, and lifelong community member.
Chris shares how his journey from foster homes to the superintendent’s chair shaped his belief that leadership starts with showing up. From greeting families at bus drop-off to broadcasting thank-yous on the district radio, he models a culture of presence, gratitude, and service.
Through stories of resilience, humor, and heart, Chris reminds us that school culture isn’t built all at once—it’s built over time, through relationships and small daily wins.
💡 Little Wins in This Episode:
- Leadership Through Service: Chris shows how visibility and presence create lasting trust.
- First Impressions Matter: Why he suits up on the first day to honor the profession and set the tone.
- Cheers at the Door: Creating a “Norm” culture where everyone feels seen and welcomed.
- Homegrown Talent: Hiring graduates builds pride and belonging across generations.
- Everyday Gratitude: A radio shoutout to transportation staff becomes a district-wide ritual.
- Resilient Roots: From foster homes to superintendent, Chris leads with empathy and perspective.
- Keep Showing Up: Culture grows from consistency, commitment, and care.
Key Moments:
00:00 Welcome to Little Wins
02:00 Life and learning in rural Ellicott
06:00 Serving military families and building trust
10:45 Returning home to teach where it all began
18:10 First impressions and new teacher welcome
19:50 Tai Chi, Dungeons & Dragons, and unexpected student connections
32:40 Building culture through visibility and service
35:00 Dressing up for the first day: small signals, big meaning
39:20 Checking the tiles—how Chris supports staff quietly and personally
42:20 Three words that define Ellicott’s culture
45:00 One little win worth celebrating
46:00 Leadership lessons for every educator
🧵 About the Podcast:
Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures, one meaningful win at a time.
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What is Little Wins?
Little Wins is a podcast that shines a light on the small moments making a big impact in schools. Hosted by Karen Borchert, each episode features courageous conversations with principals, heads of school, and superintendents who are building trust, sparking belonging, and shaping culture—one hallway celebration, heartfelt gesture, or coffee-fueled conversation at a time.
Because in education, it’s the little things that often matter most—and they’re the reason people stay.