The Teacher's Lounge: The Real Roles of Educators in Your Schools

John B. Gordon III began his career as a substitute teacher and basketball coach on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Teaching 5th grade in Salisbury, Maryland and high school history in both Richmond and Chesterfield, Virginia, he taught with an energy and creativity that made learning fun. As the basketball coach at Armstrong and Meadowbrook High Schools, his teams won numerous championships over a ten-year career and created a culture of excitement towards "men's basketball" that will never be duplicated. "Crossing the bridge" into administration, Dr. Gordon knew the formula that built championship teams could also be used to create schools with highly motivated students, passionate teachers, and instructional strategies that promote excellence. As principal of The James Monroe High School in Fredericksburg, Virginia, he promoted a culture of leadership and student-involvement that led to The James Monroe being named one of the top high schools in country by U.S. News and World Report. After his successful tenure as principal, Dr. Gordon was promoted to Director of Administrative Services, where he re-focused instruction through student inquiry and the International Baccalaureate program. Dr. Gordon now spreads his message of inspiration and transformational leadership as the Chief of Schools for Chesterfield County Public Schools and through Schools That Inspire, LLC.