About me
Dr. Don Austin is the Superintendent of Schools for the Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD), a high-achieving district known for its innovative programs and emphasis on mental health. With over a decade of superintendent experience, Dr. Austin has a track record of transforming complex challenges into clear, actionable goals. At PAUSD, he has led initiatives that prioritize mental health as a cornerstone of student and staff wellbeing, including replacing outsourced services with an internal model that has elevated support across campuses.
In addition to his district leadership, Dr. Austin is the founder of SimpleWins, a professional development platform designed for school administrators. SimpleWins offers strategic guidance and practical solutions to help administrators navigate challenges like mental health, leadership transitions, and team building. Dr. Austin’s approach is rooted in strategic simplicity, focusing on breaking down complex issues into manageable parts that drive meaningful outcomes. Visit at SimpleWinsLLC.com
In this session, Dr. Austin will emphasize the importance of prioritizing mental health efforts for both students and adults, highlighting strategies that build sustainable support systems within school districts. His insights are tailored specifically for administrators looking to enhance their own wellbeing while leading efforts that improve overall school culture.