Dr. Spurka
Transforming Education Through Experience and Vision
Dr. Spurka's distinguished journey in education began with an unexpected detour from his path to law school. What started as a temporary position working with adjudicated youth at The Glen Mills Schools in Pennsylvania ignited a lifelong passion for transforming students' lives, leading him to pursue multiple degrees in education—starting with Special Education from West Chester University in 1992, followed by master's, specialist, and doctorate degrees from the University of Georgia.
Over three decades, Dr. Spurka ascended through every level of education, from counselor and teacher to assistant principal and Head of School. His exceptional leadership garnered four Governor's High-Performance Principal awards and two Outstanding Principal of the Year honors from the Georgia PTA. When selected to establish Cambridge High School from the ground up, he demonstrated his ability to build not just institutions but thriving educational communities.
Shaped by his mentor Principal Ron Tesch, Dr. Spurka developed a leadership philosophy centered on creating environments where teachers could flourish and students excel. This approach consistently yielded high teacher retention rates and exceptional staff morale across both public and private institutions. "I prided myself in creating school environments where teachers felt valued and supported because they had the biggest impact on my students," he reflects. This unwavering dedication to holistic education and teacher empowerment has cemented his legacy as a transformative figure in education.
What Guides Dr. Spurka
At the heart of my work is a simple belief: education thrives when teachers are supported and parents are engaged. Throughout my career, I've seen firsthand how creating positive school environments transforms not just classrooms but lives. I believe that:
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Every teacher deserves to rediscover the joy that brought them to education;
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Every parent can build a stronger relationship with their teen while guiding them toward success; and
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Every student benefits when teachers and parents work as a team.
The Spurka Ed Institute was formed with a mission to share practical, proven strategies for creating these positive outcomes. My mission isn't about theory—it's about providing real solutions that work in today's schools and homes.
Educational Leader & Speaker
From School Leader to Inspirational Speaker
As a speaker, I bring over thirty years of hands-on educational experience to every engagement. My unexpected start working with adjudicated youth, followed by roles as teacher, counselor, and Head of School shaped my practical understanding of what makes schools thrive. As a four-time recipient of the Governor's High-Performance Principal award, I know that education success comes down to creating spaces where teachers feel valued, and students can excel.
"Where did we lose the joy in education?"
This question echoes through schools and homes across the country. Teachers are burning out faster than ever, parents are struggling to connect with their teens, and everyone is looking for real solutions—not just inspiration.
I share battle-tested strategies that consistently create positive change in schools and families. My approach isn't about theory—it's about what actually works in classrooms and homes today. Whether speaking to a room of exhausted teachers or concerned parents, I focus on providing tools they can use immediately. There is no jargon, no complex frameworks—just straightforward strategies that help educators rediscover their passion and parents build stronger relationships with their teens.
Discussion Topics
For Educators
From Surviving to Thriving: How Teachers Can Prevent Burnout and Rediscover Their Passion
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Teaching is more demanding than ever, but it's possible to reignite your passion and reclaim balance. This talk provides real-world strategies for managing stress, avoiding burnout, and finding joy in the classroom.
Creating a Supportive School Culture: How Principals and Teachers Can Work Together to Improve Retention
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Teacher burnout and turnover are at an all-time high. Learn how school leaders and educators can collaborate to build a positive, supportive environment that keeps great teachers in the profession.
Reframing Challenges as Opportunities: The Mindset Shifts That Keep Educators Motivated
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Every challenge in education presents an opportunity for growth. This session offers practical ways to shift perspectives, develop resilience, and stay inspired in adversity.
For Parents
Preparing Yourself and Your Child For The Transitions From Childhood to Young Adulthood
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Whether it’s the first day at pre-school, or the transition to middle school, high school, or college, there are significant transitions for our children and for ourselves. Learn strategies that will help you and our child meet each transition with enthusiasm and excitement.
Motivating Teens Without the Battle: How to Inspire Success Without Nagging or Punishments
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Discover why traditional rewards and punishments fail and learn proven strategies to help teens stay engaged in school, set meaningful goals, and develop self-motivation.
Navigating High School Stress: Helping Your Teen Balance Academics, Mental Health, and the Future
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High school can feel overwhelming for both parents and teens. Learn how to support your child's mental well-being, manage stress, and prepare for college or career paths without anxiety taking over.
Parenting Through the High School Years: Strengthening Your Relationship While Setting Boundaries
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Communication with teens can be challenging, but it doesn't have to be. Learn practical techniques for fostering open conversations, setting healthy boundaries, and maintaining a strong parent-child bond.
"Dr. Spurka helped prepare me for difficult parent conferences, and I always knew he was there when I needed him. He gave me the autonomy to do my job and was there to provide support when I needed it."
—Kim Premoli, Assistant Principal
"I was nervous about asking for personal time off to take a trip to Italy with my church choir. When I asked Dr. Spurka to miss 8 days of school, he was very supportive and told me I had to go! This eased my mind and allowed me to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."
—Nancy Barker, Math Teacher and Parent
"Dr. Spurka did a great job of identifying and outlining the culture and expectations for his staff and then empowered his teachers to implement his vision. He trusted his team to carry out the vision which empowered all of us."
—Mark Schuler, History Teacher
Interviews
