When Bill Runey became superintendent of the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional Schools in North Dighton, Massachusetts, the district faced significant challenges. On the heels of the pandemic, the rural district was grappling with a lack of structure and vision. But Runey saw an opportunity to build community and redefine success for students.
“We decided to rally our community, including our staff members, around what we wanted our graduates to look like when they came out of our high school,” Runey shared on the Education Leadership Edge podcast. “And so we developed the Portrait of a Graduate.”
The initiative, described by Runey as the district’s “North Star,” involved extensive collaboration with stakeholders—students, teachers, families, and community members—to identify key competencies for graduates. These included collaboration, effective communication, and being future-ready. “It’s something we tie all of our teaching and learning back to,” he said.
Addressing Pandemic Fallout
The COVID-19 pandemic left many students, particularly younger ones, struggling to regain essential social and academic skills. Runey recognized this and made social awareness a cornerstone of the Portrait of a Graduate. “When students were doing the best they could to learn from a screen, a lot of foundational skills went out the window,” he explained.
Runey commended his staff for their patience and dedication, particularly in supporting students still catching up. By engaging families more deeply in the educational process, the district fosters a strong partnership that reinforces learning at home and in the classroom. “That partnership allows us the flexibility to have it reinforced not only in the schools but also in our families,” Runey added.
Preparing Students for the Workforce
One of the most forward-thinking aspects of Runey’s leadership is his emphasis on workforce readiness. The district’s robust career and technical education (CTE) programs are tailored to prepare students for both college and industry. “We have seven career and technical education programs, and we’re constantly strengthening partnerships with local businesses and colleges,” he said.
An annual advisory dinner brings together CTE experts, teachers, and students to discuss industry trends and ensure that programs stay relevant. “Whether our students are choosing to be college-bound or prefer to go straight into the industry, those partnerships help mitigate concerns about students being unprepared for the workforce,” Runey noted.
The district also offers an exploratory program for ninth-grade students, allowing them to sample various career paths. “It’s like each shop is a survey course,” Runey explained. “It gives students the opportunity to reflect on whether a particular career path is right for them.” This flexibility helps students make informed decisions about their futures.
Celebrating Public Education
Runey is also passionate about countering negative narratives around public education. In a time when public schools face enrollment competition and budget challenges, he believes in celebrating successes openly. “We use social media to share the great things our staff and students are accomplishing,” he said, acknowledging that while public platforms invite criticism, they also foster transparency and community pride.
Runey’s district recently received a $316,000 grant to enhance its CTE programs with virtual reality technology. “Now our students can diagnose the brakes on a Lamborghini or a Tesla using VR laptops,” he shared. This cutting-edge approach not only enriches learning but also positions public education as a strong option for families.
Inspired by Legacy
Runey’s dedication to education started in his home. His father, a high school health teacher and coach, was a powerful role model. “I saw how my dad could have such a tremendous impact on his students and players,” Runey recalled. After his father’s passing, Runey felt compelled to follow in his footsteps. “I’m on year 37 of my career, and I’m hoping both of my parents are smiling down on me from above.”
As Runey continues to lead with heart and vision, his impact on the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional Schools serves as a testament to the power of thoughtful, community-driven leadership in shaping the future of public education.