5 Questions With: Luis Jaime

New Dover Schools superintendent reflects on personal past and professional present for future of student success.

1 How did past personal and professional experiences prepare you for being superintendent?

On a personal level, my motivation stems from the incredible example set by my mother, who courageously left her family in Puerto Rico to provide me with better opportunities in the United States. Growing up in Paterson with a single mother who juggled several jobs, I witnessed firsthand the power of sacrifice, resilience, and dedication. Her unwavering commitment to ensure I had everything I needed, despite the challenges, instilled in me a profound sense of responsibility and the drive to leverage every opportunity.

Professionally, my path was significantly influenced by my own educational journey as a student. I was fortunate to encounter teachers who recognized and nurtured my potential at critical times. These educators provided not just instruction but meaningful structure and guidance, recognizing my capabilities and the need for support to harness them fully. This experience underscored the transformative impact of educators who invest in seeing and developing the potential within each student.

These personal and professional experiences have not only prepared me but have also inspired me to strive for a leadership role where I can foster an environment that empowers both educators and students. As superintendent, I am committed to creating systems that recognize and support the potential in every student, mirroring the life-changing support I received. This commitment is fueled by a deep understanding of the challenges and barriers that students can face, paired with firsthand knowledge of the difference dedicated educational leadership can make.

2 What was the biggest surprise that came with being superintendent?

The biggest surprise was the realization of the scope and complexity of the responsibilities involved. Before assuming this position, one might think they understand what the job entails, but it’s only upon actually occupying the role that the true breadth and depth of the duties become clear.

Being a superintendent offers a panoramic view of the entire school district, akin to a conductor overseeing an orchestra. In this analogy, the superintendent ensures that all elements of the district—akin to various musical instruments and musicians—work in harmony. This involves not only the visible aspects of the district, such as teaching and learning, but also the numerous behind-the-scenes operations that support these efforts.

The role requires orchestrating these diverse components effectively to create a cohesive

and successful educational experience, much like producing beautiful music in an orchestral performance.

3 What do you wish people in Dover knew about you to understand you better?

I wish people knew that my work is deeply motivated by the community itself. Every decision I make is thoroughly investigated to ensure we achieve the best possible outcomes. This approach is rooted in a commitment to the community’s well-being and future, emphasizing that careful consideration and meticulous attention to detail guide all actions taken in my role. My dedication to Dover is about more than just fulfilling duties; it’s about ensuring that each decision contributes positively to the community and upholds the trust placed in me by its members.

4 What is the biggest challenge about the job?

The biggest challenge of being a superintendent, as I’ve experienced, is achieving balance in various aspects of the role. Balancing work with personal and family life is a constant endeavor. Professionally, making decisions requires a nuanced approach; it involves weighing data and its implications carefully against the human impact of those decisions. Additionally, there is the challenge of finding the right equilibrium between giving my team the autonomy they need to grow and innovate and providing enough guidance to keep everyone aligned with our district’s goals without being overly directive. Each of these balancing acts is crucial not only to personal and professional success but to the holistic well-being of the school district and community.

5 What is your most important mission to accomplish as superintendent?

My most important mission is to ensure that Dover is left in a better state than when I began my tenure. This goal is driven by a desire to create a lasting positive impact that the community and my family can be proud of. This encompasses not just improving educational outcomes and school facilities but also fostering a supportive, engaged community that values education and the well-being of every student. By focusing on sustainable improvements and meaningful community involvement, I aim to leave a legacy that will benefit future generations.