As Superintendent of the New Prairie United School Corporation, Dr. Paul White has made it his mission to align innovative educational practices with the values and needs of the community he serves. He leads with a focus on collaboration, continuous improvement, and a deep respect for all learners. His approach is intentional and grounded in care.
White’s journey in education began in Indianapolis, where he attended Roncalli High School. It was there he learned a principle that continues to guide his leadership: people gain from a situation what they are willing to put into it. That value, instilled early through the school’s culture, has remained a foundation for his work.
After graduating from Roncalli, White pursued his undergraduate and master’s degrees in education at Indiana University Bloomington. He later earned educational specialist and PhD degrees from Indiana State University. His doctoral studies expanded his view of leadership and emphasized the importance of research and self-reflection in challenging personal biases.
“One theme I really took from that program is the importance of inquiry—looking at what research says instead of just relying on what you’ve experienced,” White said.
This mindset is reflected in his top priorities for New Prairie schools, which include fostering collaborative professional learning communities and ensuring student and staff safety. These goals are integrated into the weekly schedules of teachers, who meet regularly during the contract day to share best practices and refine their instruction.
“It’s all about creating spaces where educators can learn with and from each other,” White said.
In response to emerging student needs, White is overseeing the launch of a new online learning option for secondary and upper elementary students. The program provides flexible enrollment opportunities, allowing students to participate part-time or full-time online. It also includes mental health support through licensed staff and outside resources. The goal is to serve students who need different approaches while keeping them connected to the school community.
The district has also positioned itself well to meet Indiana’s new diploma requirements. With the addition of a Director of College and Career Readiness three years ago, New Prairie has aligned its curriculum, expanded internship opportunities, and created clear pathways for students pursuing enrollment, employment, or enlistment seals.
“Our school board had the foresight to invest in this position, and it’s paid off,” White said. “We’re in a strong place to support any path our students choose.”
White values the role of families and the community in shaping the district’s future. The “Community and Career Fair” brings professionals into schools to offer hands-on experiences. Students try on firefighter gear or record mock radio broadcasts, gaining real insight into potential careers. These events also help the district build partnerships with local businesses that support job shadowing and internships.
“We want students excited about what’s possible and families engaged in the journey,” White said.
Reflecting on his leadership, White shared that he has learned to avoid reacting too quickly. He emphasized the value of listening and taking time to understand the full picture before making decisions. Another key lesson is the importance of making people feel heard and respected, even when final decisions do not align with their preferences.
“Even if you don’t make the decision they were hoping for, when people know they were listened to and respected, it makes a difference,” White said.
As he considers the legacy he wants to leave, White focuses on building upon the strengths of the district and supporting those around him in getting better every day.
“New Prairie was already a good system when I arrived. My job is to make sure we keep improving and then pass that progress along,” White said.
His advice to emerging educational leaders is to listen first and avoid the temptation to believe they must have all the answers. He encourages leaders to recognize the value of those they work with and to build a culture where ideas and challenges are shared openly.