Indiana Association of School Principals (IASP) Podcast

Hello, IASP Members, Today, advocacy and leadership come together in a big way! In this week's IASP Advocacy Podcast, we're celebrating an exciting announcement about the future of the Indiana Principal Leadership Institute (IPLI). Since 2013, IPLI has been hosted by Indiana State University with a strong partnership with IASP. Earlier this week, ISU announced that IPLI will begin transitioning to IASP over the next year, ensuring continued growth, sustainability, and impact of IPLI's mission. This move strengthens IASP's commitment to leadership development and aligns perfectly with our vision to support principals at every stage of their careers. Joining me on today's episode are Dr. Todd Bess and Dr. Tiffany Barrett as we discuss this exciting transition, what it means for Indiana school leaders, and how IASP will continue IPLI's proud legacy of relationships, reflection, and growth.    

In this episode of the IASP Leadership Podcast, Dr. Tiffany D. Barrett sits down with Dr. Todd Bess, Executive Director of the Indiana Association of School Principals, to discuss current leadership trends, the upcoming IASP Fall Conferences, and the power of connection among Indiana school leaders. Together, they explore how the School Leader Paradigm (SLP) continues to shape professional growth across the state and how administrators can bring it to life in their daily practice.

Hello, Indiana School Leaders, This week's IASP Advocacy Podcast takes you inside two major meetings shaping education policy in Indiana: the Fiscal Policy Interim Study Committee and the State Board of Education's discussion of Draft 2 of the School Accountability model.

This week, Annie sits down with IASP Assistant Executive Director Cindy Long to talk all things Indiana Cheer Competition! From exciting new updates to what they're most looking forward to, they dive into how IASP is working hard to put on an unforgettable event for Indiana's student-athletes, their coaches, and families.

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Hardy shares his journey from classroom teacher to nationally recognized principal, offers real-world strategies for increasing your leadership impact, and gives us a sneak peek into his keynote, “Leading Where It Matters Most: The Assistant Principal's Path to Impact.”

Hello, School Leaders! This week's IASP Advocacy Podcast tries something new. I'm joined by Executive Director Dr. Todd Bess for a rapid, insightful game we're calling One Word, Two Lenses—we each bring a word shaping education right now and look at it from the local (in-school) lens and the larger (statewide/policy) lens. In this episode, we cover: Accountability — measuring impact through student success factors Advocacy — connection, one conversation at a time Attendance — student attendance vs. school attendance Leader Development — mentoring tomorrow's leaders and growing with IASP Fall BREAK — time to recharge and rejuvenate  As always, thank you for leading with purpose and partnering with IASP to keep Indiana's schools moving forward. Warmly, Cindy Long

Dear IASP Members, I'm excited to share our latest episode of the IASP Leadership Podcast: From the AP Lens: A Look Ahead 2.0 – The New Diploma and Special Populations. This conversation lifts the voices of assistant principals and centers on what matters most—our students. In this episode, I sit down with Kristen Peterson (Chesterton HS) and Kyle Owens (Danville CHS), two passionate leaders who contributed to the October Indianagram. Together, we explore how Indiana's new diploma is shaping planning, communication, and inclusive practices—especially for our students with IEPs, ILPs, and emerging multilingual backgrounds. This episode is packed with ideas, strategies, and encouragement. Whether you're just beginning to unpack the new requirements or you're already leading change in your building, I think you'll find this episode helpful, hopeful, and grounded in real-world leadership. Lead on, Dr. Tiffany Barrett Assistant Executive Director Indiana Association of School Principals

Good morning, School Leaders! It's Friday, and that means it's time for the IASP Advocacy Podcast — your go-to for education policy, leadership insight, and what's next in Indiana and beyond. This week's episode features Dr. Bess's Fireside Chat with KGR attorney Seamus Boyce, and it's packed with timely updates you won't want to miss. Topics include:

Tune in to the latest IASP Leadership Podcast as Cindy Long and I walk you through this fall's can't-miss programs and events—what's new, what to expect, and how to get the most out of your membership. We highlight the Assistant Principals Conference, the Fall Professionals Conference, student programs (including Cheer), plus special features like Reel Impact and the Petteri Elo event. In 10 quick minutes, you'll get dates, pro tips, and easy next steps to register and share with your team.  

This week, Annie sits down and talks with IASP's very first intern, Juliann Jones! Juliann, a senior at Greenfield Central High School, chats about what she is learning in her internship thus far. We cover everything from cheer, academic contests, and behind the scenes looks to new programs and inititiaves that Juliann herself is spearheading! Listen to learn about fun new opportunities that are happening right here at IASP. 

Good morning, School Leaders! It's Friday, and that means it's time for the IASP Advocacy Podcast! In this week's episode, I'm fresh off our September Board of Directors meeting and district visits across the state. I'll share three big topics that are shaping our schools right now: School Accountability – Why the draft model is a step forward and how it can better highlight the incredible work happening in our schools. Freedom of Speech – A timely discussion on educators' First Amendment rights  Teacher Appreciation Grant (TAG) – A dive into the stipulations of the grant, who is eligible, and some practical approaches. Click here to access the IDOE Guidance document.

Good morning, School Leaders! It's Friday, and that means it's time for the IASP Advocacy Podcast — your go-to for education policy, leadership insight, and what's next in Indiana and beyond. This week, I'm joined by Dave Strouse, Principal of Batesville Middle School and IASP's NASSP Coordinator. Dave just returned from his bi-monthly NASSP meeting and he's bringing you the inside scoop. Here's what you'll hear in this episode: ✅ Conference Shifts — NASSP is adjusting its conference timeline. Find out what's changing and why it matters. ✅ Federal Appropriations — What must be done before September 30 to avoid a government shutdown. ✅ National Principals Month — October is all about celebrating YOU and the incredible work you do.

Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast.  A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth.  In this episode, we hear from Mrs. Kristen Peterson, Associate Principal at Chesterton High School and IASP Assistant Principal Liaison, along with Mr. Craig Bruns and Mrs. Robyn Witty, both Assistant Principals at Greenwood Community High School. Together, they co-authored this month's Through the AP Lens article, Looking Ahead: Transforming Obligations into Opportunities Amidst Change and we are excited to explore it together today.

Good morning, School Leaders, This week's IASP Advocacy Podcast recaps important takeaways from the September 9th State Board of Education (SBOE) meeting. Here are some highlights:

As the first major IASP academic competition of the year, Spell Bowl sets the tone for the season - and few know it better than longtime coach Peggy Grabowski. With over 20 years at the helm of Terre Haute South Vigo High School's Spell Bowl team, Peggy led her students to the state finals more than twenty times and earned five state championships along the way. In this episode, Annie sits down with Peggy to talk about what it takes to build a thriving academic team - from practice routines and team culture to the joy of language and "embracing the quirk." Whether you're a seasoned coach, a new competitor, or just a word nerd at heart, this episode is full of insight, inspiration, and a lot of love for learning.

Hello IASP Members, This week on the IASP Advocacy Podcast, we're looking at advocacy through a different lens. As school leaders, advocacy isn't just about legislation — it's also about telling the story of your school. Whether it's culture, attendance, or programming, we are always sharing what makes our schools unique. In this episode, I'm joined by IASP's new intern, who shares her work-based learning experience and talks about her role in launching Reel Impact — a brand new digital media competition from IASP Student Programs. You'll hear about: The power of work-based learning opportunities What it takes to create a short, high-impact video How her school community reacted to her project Why Reel Impact videos can be powerful tools for advocacy — not only with students and parents, but also with local officials and state legislators. Consider how you and your students could use Reel Impact to showcase your school's story while also engaging your community and decision-makers. Thanks for all you do to advocate for your schools and your students! Warm regards, Cindy Long Assistant Executive Director Indiana Association of School Principals

Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. In this episode, we hear from Dr. Jen Schawnke, upcoming IASP Assistant Principals Opening Keynote Speaker. Leading with heart. Handling conflict with confidence. Protecting our joy in the middle of constant demands. If that sounds like exactly what you need, you'll love this preview of our opening keynote with Dr. Jen Schwanke at the IASP Assistant Principals Conference on November 20, 2025, at the JW Marriott, Indianapolis. We highlight takeaways from her keynote, “Leading with Heart,”—school climate, authentic support, work–life integration, and self-care—and her breakout, “Conflict Management for Assistant Principals,” featuring the practical anticipate–analyze–act approach. Tune in for inspiration and ready-to-use strategies, then make plans to join us on November 20. Click to register!

It's Friday, and that means it's time for the IASP Advocacy Podcast — your go-to for education policy, leadership insight, and what's next in Indiana and beyond. This week's special guest is none other than The Retired Guy himself — Steve Baker. With his trademark humor and wisdom, Steve dives into how school leaders can successfully implement new changes—whether those changes come from the Indiana General Assembly, district-level policy shifts, or even federal mandates. With Soil, Ships, and Successful Leaders, Steve shares a fresh perspective on navigating the sometimes turbulent waters of leadership. Expect a few good laughs along the way, but also plenty of practical advice you can take back to your schools right now.  

Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership Podcast—a weekly production bringing you short, sweet nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for your leadership growth. In this episode, we hear from Damon West, author of The Coffee Bean and an incredible voice on resilience, transformation, and leadership. And here's the exciting part—Damon will be joining us live as the keynote speaker at the IASP Fall Professionals Conference, closing us out on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at the JW Marriott in Indianapolis. Registration is now open, and you don't want to miss him! Now, let's dive into this powerful conversation with Damon West. Click to register for the conference!

Dear IASP Members, It's Friday, and that means it's time for the IASP Advocacy Podcast — your go-to for education policy, leadership insight, and what's next in Indiana and beyond. This week, I sat down with Denise Funston, Director of Exceptional Needs for Community Schools of Frankfort, to talk all things special education. We dive into: Indiana's new IEP process and PowerSchool implementation The biggest challenges in rollout and how schools are adapting Strategies for addressing special education staffing shortages Tips for school leaders on working most effectively with special education staff Denise's perspective on what she'd change if she had a “magic wand” to remove barriers for students and educators This conversation offers practical insights for principals and a deeper understanding of what's happening in special education across Indiana.

What do fast buzzers, obscure facts, and lifelong learning have in common? For Adriana Harmeyer, the answer starts with Quiz Bowl and leads all the way to the Jeopardy! Masters stage. In this episode, Director of Student Programs Jill Slinker sits down with Adriana Harmeyer - 15-time Jeopardy! champion, Tournament of Champions runner-up, Masters competitor, and current Purdue University archivist - to talk about where it all began: high school Quiz Bowl. They explore how early experiences in academic competition can shape a lifelong love of learning, the importance of keeping students excited and engaged, and how the skills sharpened in Quiz Bowl (lightning-fast recall, wide-ranging knowledge, and buzzer strategy) translate seamlessly to one of television's most challenging quiz shows. Whether you've played, coached, or just love learning for the sake of it, this one's worth a listen.

Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast.  A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth.  In this episode, Dr. Tiffany D. Barrett shares a few of her favorite time management tips and tricks to help start your year off strong.

IASP Members, It's been a full and exciting week for Indiana education policy, and we've captured the highlights for you in this week's IASP Advocacy Podcast with Dr. Todd Bess.   Click here to listen to this week's IASP Advocacy Podcast! In this episode: Highlights from the State Board of Education meeting, including the release of IRead scores. A follow-up to our powerful School Accountability webinar with over 400 IASP members. **Additional resources provided via email for our members. 

Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast.  A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth.  In this episode, we hear from our Assistant Principal Liaison and Associate Principal at Chesterton HS, Mrs. Kristen Peterson, as she shares her article, "From the AP Lens: Using the S.A.N.I.T.Y. Blueprint to Kick Off the Year!"  

In this inaugural episode, Director of Student Programs Jill Slinker introduces Annie Bretz, our Programs Coordinator and the voice you'll hear hosting future episodes. Get to know Annie as she shares a bit about herself and what you can expect from this podcast moving forward— from student opportunities and event highlights to behind-the-scenes insights and conversations with the people who make it all happen. Whether you're a student, educator, or advocate for student programs across Indiana, this podcast is your go-to for staying connected and inspired. Stay tuned and subscribe. Exciting things are ahead!

Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast.  A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth.  In this episode, we hear from Mr. Andy Allen, our newly inducted IASP President, as he shares his vision for the 2025-2026 year.

Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast.  A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth.  On today's episode, we have Andy Allen, Principal at Batesville High School and President-Elect with us today to share some highlights as part of our BEST of series to round out the year.  This series is a highlight reel of all things good in education and today, we can't wait to hear from Mr. Allen's perspective!   

I'm excited to share a brief but important episode of the IASP Advocacy Podcast: “Action Items & Accountability: What You Need to Know Before School Starts.”

Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast.  A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth.  In this episode, we hear from our Assistant Principal Liaison and Associate Principal at Chesterton HS, Mrs. Kristen Peterson, and Mr. Josh Burkett, Elementary Assistant Principal at Wes-Del Community Schools. They join us for the “Through the Assistant Principal Lens” series.  I'm your host, Dr. Tiffany Barrett, and today Josh will share the Wes-Del journey through developing innovative strategies to improve literacy and integrate reflective practices during their school.

This week's episode of the IASP Advocacy Podcast is short—but powerful.

Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast.  A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth.  On today's episode, we have Dr. Bret Bailey, Principal of Hamilton Heights Middle School and IASP Vice-President with us to share some highlights from this year as part of our BEST of series.  This series is a highlight reel of all things good in education, and today, we appreciate Dr. Bret Bailey sharing his BEST with us!  

A brand-new episode of the IASP Advocacy Podcast is now live — and this one's a must-listen for every school leader in Indiana. On June 4, the Indiana Department of Education presented the first draft of the state's new school accountability model to the State Board of Education. In this 15-minute episode, I break down what's changing, why it matters, and how this shift could impact your school — all in language built for building leaders.

Join us for ther episode of the IASP Leadership podcast.  A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth.  On today's episode, we have Dr. Jane Bitting, Principal of Perry Hill Elementary School and IASP incoming vice-president with us to share some highlights from her year as part of our BEST of the 2024-2025 series.  This series is a highlight reel of all things good in education, and today, we appreciate Dr. Jane Bitting sharing her BEST with us!  

Greetings, IASP Members! We've just released a new episode of the IASP Advocacy Podcast, and this one is a must-listen as you plan for the 2025–26 school year. In this episode, I walk through the budget shifts, new mandates, and key funding implications from the 2025 Indiana General Assembly—and what they mean for your school.

Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast.  A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth.  On today's episode, we have none other than Mr. Steve Baker, Principal at Bluffton High School and our very own Liaison to the DOE with us to share some highlights from this year as part of our BEST of series.  This series is a highlight reel of all things good in education, and today, we would like to honor one of the very best, Mr. Steve Baker as we wish him well in his retirement!  

Good afternoon, IASP Members! As we start shifting into summer planning mode, I'm excited to share the latest episode of the IASP Advocacy Podcast: “Top Ten Hidden Nuggets from the 2025 Legislative Session: What Principals Need to Know Now.”

Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast.  A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth.  In this episode, we hear from our Assistant Principal Liaison and Associate Principal at Chesterton High School, Mrs. Kristen Peterson, and guest Tiffany Hawkins, Assistant Principal at Chesterton High School, joining us for our “Through the Assistant Principal Lens” series.  I'm your host, Dr. Tiffany Barrett, and today Tiffany and Kristen will share their journey and expertise on supporting students through the summer.  

IASP Advocacy Podcast: Wrapping Up Our Legislative Series with Dr. Jane Bitting We're closing out our Voices from the Field – Legislative Perspectives podcast series with an elementary lens on the 2025 legislative session. This week's guest is Dr. Jane Bitting, Principal of Perry Hill Elementary School and IASP's next Vice President. Jane offers thoughtful reflections on how this year's new laws are shaping the foundational years of education and what elementary principals should keep in mind moving forward. In this episode, we explore: HEA 1498 – Accountability & Assessment: How changes in performance metrics and testing are impacting elementary schools. HEA 1634 – Advanced Math Placement: Why early math readiness matters and how elementary educators play a role in advanced pathways. SEA 482 – Absenteeism: The importance of early attendance interventions and building family partnerships to support consistent learning.

Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast.  A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth.  In this episode, we're excited to bring you a special panel discussion featuring three outstanding Indiana superintendents: Dr. Michael Beresford of Carmel Clay Schools, Dr. Scott Collins of MSD Decatur Township, and Mr. Jason Cary of Greenfield-Central Schools. This conversation was recorded live at the Aspiring Principals Conference, and we're thrilled to share their valuable insights with all of you.  

We're continuing our special podcast series Voices from the Field – Legislative Perspectives with another powerful conversation, this time from the middle school lens. This week's guest is Dr. Bret Bailey, Principal of Hamilton Heights Middle School and IASP Vice President. Bret shares thoughtful reflections on how recent legislation is likely to impact middle schools across Indiana. In this episode, we dive into: SEA 255 – Bullying, STEM Flexibility, and Religious Instruction HEA 1634 – Math Education HEA 1498 – Accountability and Assessment

Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast.  A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth.  On today's episode, we are offering a special opportunity to dig deeper into Micro-Credentials with our past IASP President, Mrs. Aimee Lunsford, Chief Academic Officer, and Catherine Cavanaugh, Kindergarten Teacher, and Hilary Stouder, Building Principal, all from Warsaw Community Schools, in Warsaw, Indiana. Are YOU interested in taking a Micro-Credential?  Click HERE for more information or to register. Click to view the School Leader Paradigm.

We're excited to launch a brand-new series on the IASP Advocacy Podcast featuring members of our Executive Board! Over the next three weeks, we'll be spotlighting school leaders from across Indiana — each offering their unique perspective on key education legislation from the 2025 General Assembly session. This week's guest is Andrew Allen, Principal of Batesville High School and IASP President-Elect. Andy brings a thoughtful and experienced voice to the conversation as we dive into three impactful bills: HB 1064 – Student Transfers: Exploring how the bill may shift local control and enrollment dynamics. HB 1498 – Accountability: Unpacking new provisions around data, assessment, and what they mean for schools. HB 1001 – Teacher Appreciation Grants: Discussing changes to how these funds are distributed and recognized.  Whether you're a principal, administrator, or education advocate, this series is designed to keep you informed and connected to the policy decisions shaping our schools.  

Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast.  A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth.  In this episode, we hear from four of our new leaders as they share about their experiences. Please welcome Bryan Ramirez, of Northview Middle School, Tony Tate, of Decatur Middle School, Rhonda Bates, of IU High School Online, and Tevin Shoultz, of Jennings County Middle School. Would you like to know more about INALI?  Click here to learn more. If you are interested in joining INALI, simply click here and your leadership journey will begin! 

This week's Legislative Update podcast is packed with everything you need to know as we near the end of the 2025 legislative session!

Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast.  A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth.  In this episode, we hear from Aimee Lunsford, Chielf Academic Officer at Warsaw Schools as she shares some important information on the Science of Reading. 

Happy Easter from all of us at IASP!

Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast.  A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth.  In this episode, we hear from Jeff Lehman, Middle School/High School Assistant Principal at South Adams Schools and Kristen Peterson, Associate Principal at Chesterton High School & IASP Assistant Principal Liaison, as they share more on school safety, in our Through the AP Lens Series.

This week's Legislative Update Podcast features a quick rundown of the final Senate bills heard in the House Education Committee—some key pieces of legislation you'll want to keep an eye on as we approach the end of session. In this episode, we cover: SB 255 – updated language regarding bullying SB 442 – instruction on human sexuality SB 482 – addressing chronic absenteeism SB 373 – a wide-ranging education bill from Senator Raatz SB 202 – Senator Goode's Higher Education bill Also—don't miss our upcoming webinar! Join us Wednesday, April 16 at 10:00 a.m. for a special IASP webinar focused on early implementation of Indiana's new graduation requirements, with a focus on the Enrollment Honors Plus Seal. This new seal automatically grants undergraduate admission to Indiana students who earn it, so it's important to understand what it means for your students and your school. As always, thank you for your continued leadership and commitment to Indiana students.