S6 E5: Reimagining School Culture with Dr. Devon Horton: Equity, Empathy, and Systemic Change

In this episode of Stories from the Field, host Doug Roberts sits down with Dr. Devon Horton, Superintendent of DeKalb County Schools in Georgia, for a powerful conversation about transforming district culture, empowering educators, and creating systems that truly support students.

Dr. Horton unpacks “H-PRIDE,” his district-wide framework centered on Humanization, Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Dignity, and Empathy. More than just a slogan, H-PRIDE is DeKalb’s cultural blueprint, redefining how staff, students, and the community engage with one another. Horton discusses how this values-based model began as a leadership tool and evolved into a systemic movement one that’s reshaping how people show up across a district of 92,000+ students.

He also shares how restorative practices, de-escalation training, and community-embedded support staff (called “FACE Advocates”) have helped DeKalb reduce suspensions by thousands, while increasing connection, accountability, and trust. From internal promotions to personal mentorship of future superintendents, Horton is building a pipeline of empowered educators and modeling what it means to lead with both strategy and soul.

Key Moments
04:43 "Transferring Skills for Systemic Change"

09:06 Weekend Mentorship for Aspiring Leaders

10:03 Networking's Role in Career Fluidity

14:02 "Restorative Training for School Staff"

16:20 "Transformative Support for Students"

Why You’ll Love This Episode:
Dr. Devon Horton isn’t just shifting policy, he’s rebuilding trust and human connection in a system long overdue for change. His focus on culture as the foundation of academic success is both timely and timeless. Whether you’re a district leader, school board member, or aspiring superintendent, this episode offers practical strategies, deep insights, and a hopeful reminder: when systems prioritize people, students thrive.

Connect with Dr. Devon Horton
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-devon-horton-53690661
Website: https://www.dekalbschoolsga.org

Follow Us On

Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougrobertsiei/ 

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ 

Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/ 

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