Kathy Odegaard, a graduate of Central Washington University, has served as teacher and administrator at elementary, middle and high school levels. Although she is retired from both Alaska and Washington Sates she continues to add to the strengths of public education. As well as working for Seattle University as a coach for new principals, Kathy Odegaard is an educational contractor with OSPI in the School Improvement Program. In this contracting role she works directly with the principal and staff as they implement strategies to increase their academic successes with their students. Coaching has been an on-going part of Kathy Odegaard’s career. She coached multiple varsity sports as a teacher, worked with teachers as an elementary, middle and high school principal and was called upon by both principals and district office personnel including superintendents in a variety of districts to function as a ‘coach’ in the professional working environment. Kathy blends humor, expertise, and respectful support throughout her work with others. She inspires others to address adverse conditions in a joyful manner, show respect in relationships even in the face of dissention, and to view conflict as an opportunity to learn; three of her own personal initiatives.