Hello! I’m Dr. Francisco Trujillo.
From Teacher to Leader: A Journey of Growth
I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. The classroom was where I thrived, where I built connections, and where I found purpose. But when it came time to pursue my master’s degree, I chose leadership—not fully realizing the passion I would eventually develop for it. Leadership isn’t just about making decisions; it’s about shaping environments where students, teachers, and staff feel valued and inspired.
My leadership philosophy wasn’t shaped by a single defining moment, but rather by observing the principals I worked under. I analyzed what worked and what didn’t—what inspired teachers and what instilled fear. Those reflections helped me define the kind of leader I wanted to become: one who empowers, supports, and fosters a culture of innovation.
Leading the Way, Not Following Trends
One of my biggest motivations as a leader is ensuring that the schools I lead aren’t playing catch-up with educational trends but instead setting the standard. Education is constantly evolving—the finish line keeps moving—but I want to be at the forefront, leading schools that inspire others.
That mindset led me to create Beyond the Bell Leadership, a platform where I can build a community of educational leaders who stay ahead of innovations while also discussing topics often overlooked in leadership—men’s mental health and a healthy lifestyle. Leadership is demanding, but balance is essential. It’s possible to excel in our careers while prioritizing our well-being.
Leadership That Stands Out
Great leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about being present, listening, and building a strong team. My approach is rooted in three key principles:
Visibility: A leader should be seen—by students, teachers, staff, and parents. Being present builds trust and credibility.
Active Listening: Speaking should come second. Understanding the perspectives of all stakeholders is critical before making decisions.
Strategic Leadership: Knowing my leadership style allows me to surround myself with a team that complements my strengths and challenges me to grow.
I also love analyzing leadership in everyday situations—even in movies. Characters, conflicts, and decisions all reflect different leadership styles, and I enjoy breaking those down to find lessons that apply to real-world education.
The Educator’s Perspective
Before stepping into leadership, I spent 10 years as a teacher, and that experience shapes how I lead today. I don’t just see students as numbers—I care about their well-being, their mental health, and their experiences beyond the classroom. When working with students, I consider factors like Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) because every decision in a school impacts real lives.
The same applies to teachers. I know firsthand how policy decisions affect classrooms, and I always keep that in mind before implementing change. Leadership isn’t just about pushing initiatives—it’s about understanding the impact they have on those who carry them out.
Balancing Career, Family, and Personal Well-Being
Leadership comes naturally in my professional life, but at home, I take a different approach. I believe in co-leadership with my wife—we share responsibilities, make decisions together, and create a supportive home for our family.
Balancing leadership, family, and self-care is challenging, but it’s a priority. Family comes first, my career keeps everything moving, and my mental and physical health ensures I can continue doing both. That’s why I make time for the things that keep me grounded:
Running and working out
Traveling and exploring history
Playing with new technology
Date days with my wife
Join the Conversation
I built Beyond the Bell Leadership as a space for leaders, educators, and self-improvers to share insights, challenge ideas, and grow together. I love engaging with readers—drop a comment, connect on social media, or check out my links to stay involved.
At the end of the day, great leadership starts with being open to new information—and that’s exactly what this space is about. Let’s keep learning, leading, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in education.
