This month’s employee spotlight shines on Sheila Briggs, Principal and home team lead for the Engaged Students team! Sheila balances her leadership roles, building strong support systems and fostering a culture of equity across national projects. Her favorite moments often arise when things don’t go as planned, revealing Education First’s resilience and dedication to true teamwork.
What does a “day in the life” look like for you as a Principal, a home team lead and accountable project lead (AP)?
As the home team lead and an accountable project lead on most projects, I participate in meetings focused on supporting staff, staffing and committees, handling internal development and connecting with team members. My primary responsibility is to create an environment and support system that empowers the team to deliver high-quality client results. I strive to set an example in collaboration, feedback and fostering a safe, honest and equitable work environment.
My days are filled with meetings, which I enjoy as I balance remote work with frequent interactions. I work with clients nationwide, sometimes starting my day with calls in Delaware and ending with coaches in Texas, with varied tasks in between, like supporting Ohio’s statewide math plan. Though focused work blocks are limited, I find time to review or create as needed. Each week is diverse, especially when I travel for client meetings and stakeholder engagements, which I thoroughly enjoy. Building strong relationships, ensuring psychological safety and empowering everyone to address concerns are essential to our effective teamwork.
What aspects of your work do you find most exciting and challenging?
I love the opportunity to work in various states across the country, as it allows me to focus on the aspects of education that matter most to me. I feel like I’m significantly impacting all the spaces we’re involved in. It’s fulfilling to see that the work I loved most in my previous role as the assistant state superintendent in Wisconsin is now replicated in other states, helping them progress in similar areas. I used to worry that transitioning to a national role would distance me from the kids and work that is deeply important, but I’ve found that’s not the case at all. I still feel deeply connected to students, schools, and the important work happening there. Though not every project allows for classroom and school observations, even collaborating with leaders who do is rewarding.
Part of my role involves visiting schools, observing, and assisting leaders in establishing systems and structures to support their students. It’s an incredible experience. As for the most challenging aspect of my job, and I genuinely mean this, it’s striving to match the excellence of the talented individuals I work with. I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with amazing people throughout my career, but being surrounded by such high-caliber colleagues in every corner of the firm is truly remarkable. It’s both daunting and exhilarating to hustle and keep up with them. Even our associates, who are just starting their careers, are incredibly impressive, and I feel privileged to work alongside them. So, yes, it’s challenging, but in the most rewarding way possible.
What led you to Education First, and were there past experiences that you found crucial for this role?
I took a very traditional route through education. I was a teacher, then a principal, followed by working in a central office at an urban district, and finally, I spent the last 10 years at the state as the assistant state superintendent in Wisconsin. All of these experiences have prepared me for my current role. My time in the schools, classrooms, and districts was crucial in advising and collaborating with others in similar roles.
My tenure at the State of Wisconsin prepared me the most for the shift to consulting. I played a similar role to an AP, overseeing a division with five teams. We handled regular daily work and collaborated on big projects funded by grants to innovate and move the state forward. This experience transferred well to my role as an AP, where part of my job involves acquiring new clients and exploring new work opportunities. Although I didn’t have direct experience with this aspect, my background in working with foundations to secure grants prepared me well. I always felt my role was to serve and collaborate with stakeholders to improve outcomes, aligning with the consulting transition.
What keeps you at Education First?
So many things! Firstly, the firm’s genuine commitment to equity goes beyond mere lip service compared to other places. Education First effectively translates this commitment into tangible actions and responses, embodying equity values, particularly race equity.
Secondly, the exceptional quality of the staff is truly remarkable. Working alongside such talented individuals daily is incredibly inspiring and fills me with excitement. Thirdly, the deep care Education First demonstrates for its employees is unmistakable. I’ve been very fortunate throughout my career, so I’ve never felt like my previous employers didn’t care about me, but I’ve never experienced such genuine care and support this sincerely. It’s something even my mother admires. This caring culture is a significant reason I am committed to Education First for the long term.
Lastly, the impact of the work is crucial. Knowing that our efforts benefit children who face significant challenges and need systemic change to thrive is immensely fulfilling. This, combined with the supportive culture and commitment to equity, makes Education First the place I want to stay and retire from. I could go on, but these are the key reasons I remain dedicated to Education First. It’s not just about the work; it’s about the people and the values we uphold.
We have a commitment to race, inclusion, diversity and equity (RIDE) at Education First, how does that show up in your projects?
I opened up initially with this, not just talking about RIDE but highlighting its significance. Part of it is our intentional focus on systems and structures that ensure we embody our RIDE values. We establish project teams that scrutinize our approach, aiming to minimize the impact of white supremacy culture in that space. We emphasize our role as change agents, challenging clients to shift language or project strategies to align better with inclusive values. We’re fostering a feedback culture where we push each other and commit to improvement, addressing any setbacks in fulfilling our commitments. Professional development and constant examination of our biases and identities in every situation are essential aspects of the environment in which I want to continue working.
What is one of your favorite moments you’ve had at Education First?
I love my job and Education First; ironically, my favorite moments often come when things don’t go as planned. In these challenging times, our organization’s true essence is revealed. We’re imperfect, and things go awry like anywhere else, but I’m always amazed by how the team handles it. For example, during a problematic proposal process with miscommunication, a partner-led a 90-minute discussion where everyone felt heard, strengthening our relationships instead of causing hard feelings. Another time, I was overwhelmed, and my manager was so familiar with my workload, he was able to intervene and provide genuine help to ease my burden despite my insistence that I was okay. Such actions often exacerbate issues in other places but bring genuine support here.
