DUNCAN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Students Step into District Leadership Through New Superintendent Shadowing Program
What does a Superintendent do all day? This question inspired Dr. Channa Byerly’s new The Day in the Life of a Student and Superintendent program at Duncan Public Schools for 2025-2026. Students across the district were given the opportunity to apply to be selected for the district’s new program, with more than 150 applications received. Students were asked questions about what they think a typical day for a superintendent looks like as well as questions about how they have demonstrated leadership in their own lives. The applications were then sent anonymously to a selection committee within the district where the 2025-2026 group was selected.
In this program, students spend half of their day shadowing Dr. Byerly and the other half she spends in the classroom with them. The program takes courage from both students and Dr. Byerly. While students stepped into the shoes of our district leader, Dr. Byerly participated in classroom activities and extracurriculars alongside them.
Our 2025-2026 Day in the Life of a Student and Superintendent Inaugural Participants:
Collins Budowsky - Duncan High School 9th Grade Student
Mackenzie Patterson - Duncan Middle School 6th Grade Student
Grayson Nelson - Mark Twain Elementary 5th Grade Student
Grant Irwin-Ramirez - Plato Elementary 4th Grade Student
Dr. Byerly said the experience reinforced the importance of staying connected to students and experiencing school through their perspective.
“I had the best time with each student. They were able to get a glimpse of what my daily schedule looks like, and I had the incredible opportunity to shadow their schedules as well. It was a wonderful experience sitting in classrooms, listening to our amazing teachers, and collaborating with students. I was reminded of how hard our students work each day and how well they balance academics, activities, responsibilities, and relationships. Their resilience and dedication are truly impressive. I honestly think I had even more fun than they did! This experience gave me an even greater appreciation for our students and all they accomplish. ” — Dr. Channa Byerly
For sixth grader Mackenzie Patterson, the experience completely changed her understanding of district leadership.
“When I had the opportunity to shadow Dr. Byerly for a day, I learned so much about what it means to be a superintendent. Before this experience, I thought a superintendent’s job was mostly making sure teachers and staff were doing their jobs well and helping decide what students learn. I quickly realized that the role involves so much more.
Throughout the day, I saw firsthand how much responsibility comes with leading an entire school district. One of the most interesting parts was watching Dr. Byerly work through a funding issue related to school construction. It was impressive to see how much planning, problem-solving, and decision-making happens behind the scenes to support students, staff, and the future of our schools.
My favorite part of the day was getting to help present Teacher of the Month awards and attending a district meeting. It was inspiring to see how involved Dr. Byerly is in every part of the district and how much she genuinely cares about the students, teachers, and community. This experience gave me a whole new appreciation for everything that goes into leading a school district, and I am very grateful for the opportunity to learn from her. It was a fun and unforgettable experience that taught me so much.” — Mackenzie Patterson
Duncan High School freshman Collins Budowsky said the experience provided a firsthand look at the leadership required to guide an entire district.
“The Superintendent Shadow Day was an incredible opportunity that gave me a stronger appreciation for the amazing way Duncan Public Schools is run. It was a day full of interacting with students, sitting in on meetings, supporting our athletes, and seeing just how busy Dr. Byerly’s schedule is.
Throughout the day, we visited almost every campus and participated in a variety of activities, whether that was having intentional conversations with students or attending meetings focused on making Duncan Public Schools better each day.
My favorite part of the day was sitting in on a meeting between Dr. Byerly and Mrs. Stone. It was interesting to hear about challenges that arise within the district and to listen as they worked together to find solutions.
Dr. Byerly’s thoughtful responses to my questions were truly inspiring, both professionally and personally. She offered valuable advice and perspective that I can apply not only to understanding her role but also to my everyday life.
I learned not only what the job of a superintendent entails, but also how busy, challenging, and demanding the position can be when leading an entire school district. Dr. Byerly’s patience, persistence, and dedication to the district’s goals, along with her heart for every student and community member, could not be more inspiring.
Having the honor of shadowing such a successful woman is an opportunity I will never take for granted, and it was definitely a highlight of my year.” — Collins Budowsky
The Day in the Life of a Student and Superintendent program reflects Duncan Public Schools' commitment to developing student leaders while ensuring district leadership remains connected to the everyday experiences of students. By stepping into one another's roles, both students and district leaders gained a deeper understanding of the work, challenges, and relationships that shape Duncan Public Schools each day.
Following the success of its inaugural year, Duncan Public Schools looks forward to expanding the Day in the Life of a Student and Superintendent program in the years ahead. District leaders are excited to see the program continue to grow, providing even more students with the opportunity to experience district leadership firsthand while strengthening meaningful connections between students, schools, and district leadership.