Empowering Voices: Jeffrey Bartolotta’s Transformative Leadership at Kirkpatrick Middle School

Meet Jeffrey Bartolotta, a dynamic leader and 2019 graduate of the Principal Impact Collaborative (PIC), who is passionately shaping the future of Kirkpatrick Middle School in Fort Worth, Texas. His inspiring journey is a testament to the impact of effective leadership and the difference one dedicated individual can make in the lives of students and staff alike. 
 
A Commitment to Growth and Development 
Jeffrey’s journey began in the classroom, where his love for teaching blossomed into a desire to influence a larger sphere. “I loved teaching, but I wanted to help students on another level,” he explains. This desire propelled him into principalship, where he aims not only to enhance student learning but also to nurture teachers as lifelong leaders. His commitment to fostering growth extends beyond academics; it encompasses the overall development of his school community. 
 
Daily Motivation: Lighting the Way for Students 
Each day at Kirkpatrick brings new challenges and rewards. He thrives on the dynamic nature of school life and is motivated by the moments when students’ understanding clicks into place. “When talking to students, I see the light bulb go off when we discuss improved academics, behavior, and life decisions,” he says, reflecting on the joy of watching his students grow. This enthusiasm extends to his collaboration with teachers, where he celebrates their efforts to enhance student achievement. 
 
Evolving Leadership: Insights from the PIC Fellowship 
Since completing the PIC Fellowship, Jeffrey’s approach to leadership has significantly transformed. Initially, he felt the pressure to take on all responsibilities himself. However, the fellowship helped him embrace a more collaborative and reflective leadership style. “PIC has changed my leadership style to be more reflective of how I approach situations, projects, and ideas,” he notes, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in driving success. 
 
P.A.W.S. Initiative: Fostering Community and Culture  
During his time in PIC, Jeffrey faced the challenge of creating a strong student voice within the school community. His journey began with an idea to bring the staff together for morning reflections, where about 15 teachers would gather three times a week to celebrate each other and recite the school's mission and vision. Although this initial effort had minimal success, it sparked the decision to involve students more actively. Starting with just one teacher, the program eventually expanded to seven teachers volunteering to host afternoon student huddles three days a week, following a similar reflective protocol. These huddles provide students with a platform to share their experiences, engage in social-emotional learning (SEL), and practice meditation strategies. By embedding the values of PAWS —Pride for our school, Actions that are respectful, Wise choices, and Safety—into these discussions, Jeffrey has transformed how students interact, encouraging them to embrace these values fully. When asked, “How has your PIC design project evolved over the past few years, and how has PAWS remained a key part of your campus culture?” Jeffrey proudly states, “The PAWS are alive and kicking,” highlighting how the house system based on these values has fostered collaboration and healthy competition. Students earn points for demonstrating PAWS behaviors within their respective houses, culminating in celebrations every six weeks for the houses with the most points. The initiative thrives, thanks in part to dedicated teachers who have created a structured agenda focused on meaningful interactions. Jeffrey's commitment to empowering student voice underscores the positive impact of his time in the PIC Fellowship. 
 
​Pride in Collective Effort 
When reflecting on his accomplishments at Kirkpatrick, Jeffrey emphasizes the hard work and dedication of both his staff and students. “I’m proud of the hard work that the staff and students put in every day to make KMS an amazing place to work,” he affirms. This shared commitment to excellence creates an uplifting atmosphere that inspires everyone in the school community. 
As we celebrate Jeffrey Bartolotta’s journey, we see a leader whose passion for education and dedication to his community is making a lasting impact. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the positive change that can be achieved through inspired leadership and the collective effort of a caring school community.