We’re looking forward to introducing you to Nicholas Ditto. Check out our conversation below.
Nicholas, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
Reading. I set a goal this year to read 12 books and made it public to keep myself accountable—I’m already on book 10. Reading is more than just relaxing; it sharpens my thinking, expands my perspective, and helps me reset. Whether I’m diving into a biography or a book on leadership, I always walk away with something new. It’s one of the best ways I recharge and stay sharp.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Nicholas Ditto, a lifelong educator and the Founder & CEO of Fort Worth STEAM Academy, a tuition-free public middle school opening in Fort Worth in August 2026.
At our school, we’re focused on three things:
1. Personalized learning—because every student learns differently and deserves the right support and challenge.
2. A strong foundation in STEAM—science, technology, engineering, the arts, and math—fields that prepare students for real opportunities.
3. A structured, supportive environment—where students feel safe, stay focused, and enjoy coming to school.
This year, we’re building the systems, hiring dedicated staff, and connecting with families to make sure we launch strong. Our goal is simple: give every student the tools to succeed now and the foundation to thrive long-term.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
When I moved to Texas in 2017 to join a school leadership program, I was paired with a mentor principal named Joan Alvarez. From the beginning, he saw leadership potential in me that I hadn’t yet recognized in myself.
What made his mentorship so impactful was how he shared not just what to do—but why. I remember shadowing him through a tough staffing decision. He took the time to walk me through the entire process, weighing the options and explaining his reasoning. That experience shaped how I lead today—with thoughtfulness, clarity, and a willingness to coach others the same way.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes—during my first year of teaching. It was a steep learning curve, and there were moments when I felt overwhelmed and unsure if I was making a difference.
But what helped me push through was the support from my colleagues and mentors, and a shift in mindset. I started focusing on small daily wins—like helping one student grasp a tough concept or seeing a lightbulb moment in class. Those small victories kept me going. Looking back, I’m incredibly grateful I stuck with it. That experience made me more resilient and grounded in my “why.”
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
A former supervisor of mine, Jacob, comes to mind immediately. What stood out about him was his consistent character—he treated everyone with the same respect and attention, whether it was the executive director or the building custodian.
I watched him lead meetings with confidence, then stay late to help staff clean up without ever seeking credit. That kind of quiet leadership left a lasting impression on me. It taught me that how you treat people—regardless of title—defines the kind of leader you are. I try to bring that same mindset into every relationship I build.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What are you doing today that won’t pay off for 7–10 years?
Founding Fort Worth STEAM Academy is absolutely a long-term investment. By the time we open in 2026, it will have been a three-year journey of planning and preparation. But the real impact? That’s measured over decades.
I often imagine one of our first students walking across the stage at their high school graduation—confident, capable, and excited for what’s next. Knowing their secondary education journey started with us, in a school built to support their growth, makes every late night and early morning worth it. We’re building something that will serve families for generations to come.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.fwsteamacademy.org
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasditto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fwsteamacademy
