Empower Your Educational Leadership Journey

The weight of leadership is heavy, but purpose makes it worth the lift.

"Cedrick the Educator" offers personalized educational consultation services and is dedicated to empowering students, educators, and educational institutions. With a wealth of experience and a passion for educational excellence, Cedrick stands out for his personalized approach and commitment to transforming the educational landscape.

Meet Dr. Cedrick Gray

Dr. Cedrick Gray is a visionary educator, transformational leader, and champion for equity in education. With a career spanning decades, he has shaped schools and communities with his unwavering belief that "leadership is not about titles, but about impact."

As the author of The Successful Middle School Leader, Dr. Gray challenges school leaders to “create spaces where every child is seen, heard, and valued,” a philosophy that has fueled his success as a superintendent, principal, and national education consultant. His impact has earned him prestigious honors, including being named Superintendent of the Year by the National Association of School Superintendents.

Through his Leadership Lifts series on Instagram, he continues to inspire, reminding leaders that “the weight of leadership is heavy, but purpose makes it worth the lift.” Whether coaching school administrators or advocating for student success, Dr. Gray’s work stands as a testament to the power of servant leadership and the relentless pursuit of educational excellence.

Why Choose Cedrick the Educator

Educational Leadership Coaching

Cedrick brings a wealth of experience as a former teacher, principal, and superintendent, blending visionary leadership with real-world solutions. His coaching empowers school leaders with strategic insights, data-driven decision-making, and a profound commitment to equity and student success. With a passion for developing transformative leaders, Cedrick provides the tools, approach, and inspiration necessary to drive lasting change in education. “In the current era or artificial intelligence, being the smartest person in the room is moot. Real leaders need folks who will stand WITH you when you are right and stand up TO you when you are wrong.”

Keynote Speaking

Cedrick delivers energetic keynote speeches that inspire, challenge, and equip audiences with actionable strategies for educational excellence. With his powerful storytelling and deep expertise, he connects with educators, leaders, and communities to spark meaningful change. His keynotes blend motivation with practical wisdom, leaving audiences energized and ready to lead with purpose. “We will laugh together, cry together, and grow together!”

Instructional Best Practices

Cedrick specializes in instructional leadership practices that honor the unique needs of multifaceted learners, ensuring equitable access to quality education. His expertise helps educators implement culturally and academically unique teaching, differentiated instruction, and student-centered strategies that drive academic success. With a commitment to closing achievement gaps, Cedrick equips schools with the tools to foster high-performing, student-centered learning environments. “Who you lead and teach is more important than what you lead and teach.”

Professional Development for Collaborative Teams

Cedrick empowers collaborative teams with professional development that strengthens communication, trust, and shared leadership. His approach equips educators with practical strategies to enhance teamwork, data-driven decision-making, and student-centered problem-solving. By fostering a culture of collaboration, Cedrick helps teams maximize their impact and drive sustainable success in schools. “If you lead them, they will follow. If you empower them, they will soar!”

Leadership Development Tools

If you are looking for abstract philosophies about leadership, you came to the wrong place. This wonderfully practical book is filled with “heart leadership” strategies that will be of use to every leader. Whether you are in your first year as a leader or 30th year, we all need renewal and encouragement, and those qualities are in abundance on every page....I hope that you will follow Dr. Gray’s wise counsel as you embark on the next stage of your career.

Douglas Reeves

Author, Fearless Schools

I purchased a copy of the Successful Middle School Leader. It became clear that as I read the book it put into words how I feel about leadership and it reinforced how I choose to lead. Some of the challenges I have been facing lead me to share the content of the first chapter with our District Leadership Team. It has been very powerful in assisting me with how I feel the culture of our District should be strengthened. I know that isn't my role but I am very passionate about Leading with the Heart and creating a healthy culture for our students and staff. Thank you for all that you do and know that your work is appreciated and respected.

Chip Schuman

Mattawan Middle School Principal

The Successful Middle School Leader is not just for the middle school leader, but for leaders at all levels of education who want to learn how to lead from their Heart, Head, and Hands.

Purchase your copy

Leadership Lift
The LIFT for those who lift others

“School leadership is tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. In Leadership Lift, I’m sharing powerful insights that will help you lead with confidence and clarity.”

Fearless Leadership Podcast

Cedrick is featured in the Fearless Leadership/Fearless Schools podcast to discuss his approach to leading fearlessly. With extensive experience in school and district leadership, Cedrick, along with Dr. Racheal George, help to make sense of some of the toughest topics facing leaders today.

Listen in to learn about leadership at any level for tips to energize your staff and style.