In this episode, host Dr. Tamara L. Thomas sits down with Dr. Anthony Lewis, superintendent of Durham Public Schools and a nationally recognized advocate for equity and innovation in education. Hailing from Talladega, Alabama, Dr. Lewis draws upon his remarkable journey, from special education teacher to influential district leader to share candid insights on legacy leadership, servant leadership, and navigating uncertainty in public education.
Together, Dr. Thomas and Dr. Lewis explore how leaders can create a lasting impact that transcends their tenure, the importance of empowering every voice in a school community, and how to steer districts through financial challenges while staying true to the mission of student success. Dr. Lewis opens up about his personal roots, the foundational moments that shaped his approach, and the bold vision he holds for the future of Durham’s students. Get ready for an inspiring conversation packed with practical wisdom, stories of resilience, and a powerful call to keep students at the center of every decision.
Let’s make the impossible possible, join us for an episode that will leave you rethinking legacy and leadership in education.
Key Moments
07:22 Roots of Servant Leadership
11:03 Mentorship Shaping Courageous Leadership
20:33 "Removing Barriers for Staff Success"
26:05 "Refocus: Leveraging Partnerships for Progress"
31:06 Workplace Challenges and Transparency
37:30 Inclusive Two-Way School Communication
39:30 "Student-Centered Leadership Engagement"
45:59 Urgent Education Reforms Needed
49:16 Critical Thinking Over Critical Race Theory
55:57 Student-Centered Decision Making
Why You’ll Love This Episode:
Legacy in Action: Dr. Anthony Lewis doesn't just talk about legacy, he lives it. From special education classrooms to the superintendent’s seat, his journey is a blueprint for leadership rooted in purpose, equity, and enduring impact.
Student-Centered, Always: Whether he’s riding the school bus or sitting in on cafeteria conversations, Dr. Lewis defines leadership by showing up. Hear how he turns visibility into accountability and why his office is wherever his students and staff are.
Equity with Urgency: In the face of budget cuts, staffing concerns, and political pressures, Dr. Lewis models how to lead with courage, clarity, and conviction, centering the most marginalized voices without compromise.
Systems Built to Last: Learn how Durham Public Schools is building people, not just programs. Dr. Lewis unpacks how he’s developing leadership at every level to ensure the work endures long after his tenure.
Real Talk, Real Stakes: From a heartbreaking student story about literacy to a vision where every child thrives regardless of zip code, this episode reminds us why the work matters and what it takes to get it right.
Connect with Guest - Dr. Anthony Lewis
Thanks for listening to the M-TIP Podcast. Keep striving, continue reflecting, and remember real change starts with one committed leader. That could be you.