The NAESP Principal Podcast

Principals know there are no guarantees that any initiative, improvement plan, or new idea will be successful at their school. How do we convince stakeholders—and just as importantly ourselves—that these ideas are worth pursuing? We sat down with Philadelphia principal Tim Boyle to discuss how to navigate ambiguity and improve what matters at your school. Tim Boyle is principal of Science Leadership Academy Middle School (SLAMS) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Liz Garden is principal of Henry P. Clough Elementary school in Mendon Massachusetts, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership. Scott McLeod is professor of educational leadership at the University of Colorado, Denver, and a fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.

Most school leaders will be familiar with PBL. But for principal Amy McElroy PBL means Problem-Based—not Project-Based—Learning. We discuss what the differences are and what it means for her school, and how this approach impacts her student's engagement and overall success. Amie McElroy is elementary school director at STEM School in Highlands Ranch, Colorado. Liz Garden is principal of Henry P. Clough Elementary school in Mendon Massachusetts, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership. Scott McLeod is professor of educational leadership at the University of Colorado, Denver, and a fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.

Social-emotional learning (SEL) is crucial at any age, but it has a special significance at the middle level. Today we sit down with an Illinois principal who's school's unique approach to SEL has made an impact in to the culture and character of students in the middle grades and beyond. Francesca Peck is principal at Polaris Charter Academy in Chicago, Illinois. Liz Garden is principal of Henry P. Clough Elementary school in Mendon Massachusetts, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership. Scott McLeod is professor of educational leadership at the University of Colorado, Denver, and a fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.

Today we're joined by author, educator and PBL advocate Sara Lev, to explain why project-based learning is not only appropriate for our youngest learners, but should be implemented far more often. We cover what it looks like in the early grades, and how principals can lead the way in implementing project-based learning in early childhood. Sara Lev is teacher on special assignment at the Larchmont Charter School in Los Angeles, and author of Implementing Project Based Learning in Early Childhood. You can find her on Twitter @saramlev. Liz Garden is principal of Henry P. Clough Elementary school in Mendon Massachusetts, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership. Scott McLeod is professor of educational leadership at the University of Colorado, Denver, and a fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.

Regardless of what strategies school leaders use to improve learning, one thing is for certain: Students must be present to receive that learning. Student attendance is a critical issue for many schools across the country, and in this episode we discuss the assistant principal's role in tackling chronic absenteeism. Donna McGuire is moderator for the NAESP Assistant Principal Community of Practice, and serves as assistant principal at Park Terrace School in New York City. Sonia Matthew is assistant principal of Mary B. Neal Elementary School in Waldorf, Maryland, and a 2025 NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal. D'Metria Alston is assistant principal of Wilder Elementary School in Westerville, Ohio. Join us this April to celebrate National Assistant Principals Week! Visit naesp.org/APWeek to learn more.

In this powerful episode, Xavier Reed and Dr. Sharon Porter engage in a candid and thought-provoking conversation on anti-racist and inclusive leadership in education. Joined by NAESP President Kevin Armstrong and leadership expert Madeline McNeely, they explore strategies for fostering equitable school environments, dismantling systemic barriers, and leading with intentional inclusivity. This episode is a must-listen for educators, administrators, and leaders committed to transforming schools into spaces of belonging and empowerment for all students. Kevin Armstrong, Ed.D. is executive principal at DuPont Hadley Middle School in Old Hickory, Tennessee, and 2024-2025 NAESP President. Madeline McNeely, M.Ed. is an author, speaker, executive coach, and founder and CEO of Conditioning Leaders. Sharon Porter is principal of Rose Valley Elementary School in Fort Washington, Maryland, and has just started her inaugural year as fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership. Xavier Reed is principal of Central Middle School in Wayzata, Minnesota, and is continuing his second year as fellow at the center.

Join the Center for Diversity Leadership fellows for a powerful conversation with Dr. Trudi Lebron, DEI expert and author, as we explore the transformative impact of equity-centered practices on schools, students, and communities. Sharon Porter is principal of Rose Valley Elementary School in Fort Washington, Maryland, and has just started her inaugural year as fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership. Xavier Reed is principal of Central Middle School in Wayzata, Minnesota, and is continuing his second year as fellow at the center.

Although wellness has always been crucial, it has become increasingly relevant in recent years. Today, wellness coach and expert Molly Funk joins us as we learn the importance of social-emotional wellness for students and educators alike, and how principals can demonstrate leadership through practicing wellness themselves. Molly Funk is an integrative educator wellness coach and professional learning facilitator. Andy Jacks is principal of Ellis Elementary School in Manassas, Virginia, and senior fellow at the NAESP Centers for Advancing Leadership.

When there are significant shifts in what we know about education, it can take a long time before those changes reach all teachers. For Erik Francis, Depth of Knowledge (DOK) is one such framework that needs reexamination. But these shifts don't happen with trainings alone—they require leadership to implement effectively. Francis sat down with the Center for Innovative Leadership to discuss the future of DOK, and how principals play an essential part in successful professional development Erik Francis is an author and speaker, and currently employs his 25 years of experience in education as owner and operator of professional development company Maverik Education. Liz Garden is principal of Henry P. Clough Elementary school in Mendon Massachusetts, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership. Scott McLeod is professor of educational leadership at the University of Colorado, Denver, and a fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.

How should AI be incorporated—or not—into school? Although it's latest iteration is relatively new, veteran educator and author Holly Clark has plenty of experience negotiating the relationship between technology and education, joins us to offer her thoughts on the promises and limits of artificial intelligence in education. Holly Clark is a speaker, best-selling author, educator, and dedicated advocate for digital learning. Liz Garden is principal of Henry P. Clough Elementary school in Mendon Massachusetts, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership. Scott McLeod is professor of educational leadership at the University of Colorado, Denver, and a fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.

When Bryan Byerlee's school building was set for reconstruction, three basic needs were prioritized: warm, safe, and dry. But those were just the baseline non-negotiables. What he and others would come to recognize is how redesigning a school is a unique opportunity to empower students, shape school culture, and improve learning overall. Bryan Byerlee is principal of Garden City Elementary School in Cranston, Rhode Island. Liz Garden is principal of Henry P. Clough Elementary school in Mendon Massachusetts, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership. Scott McLeod is professor of educational leadership at the University of Colorado, Denver, and a fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.

Often in conversations about the teaching elementary vs. secondary students, it's easy to overlook those at the middle level. More than a simple overlap of both categories, children in these grades have their own unique needs. Fortunately, at our annual conference in Nashville, the NAESP Center for Middle-Level Leadership fellows had an opportunity to sit down with Katie Powell of the Association for Middle Level Education to discuss how principals can better understand and serve middle-level students.   Katie Powell is Director for Middle Level Programs at the Association for Middle Level Education. Dr. Todd Brist is principal of Watertown Middle School in Watertown, South Dakota, and a fellow at the NAESP Center for Middle-Level Leadership. Jessica Cabeen is principal of Austin Online Academy in Minnesota, as well as a past fellow at the NAESP Center for Middle-Level Leadership.

Some educators might feel limited when it comes to outdoor learning options. Sure, there's sports, the odd field trip, and maybe holding a class or two outside—weather permitting. Today's guest comes to us from a unique and innovative school in Oregon that is blazing trails by teaching outside every day. We hear how rewarding it is for the students they serve, and what principals can take away from this model and bring to their schools. Heidi McKay is executive director of Down to Earth Forest School in West Linn, Oregon. Liz Garden is principal of Henry P. Clough Elementary school in Mendon Massachusetts, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership. Scott McLeod is professor of educational leadership at the University of Colorado, Denver, and a fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.

Where are you on your leadership journey? How has equity informed that journey? What is your "why" as a school leader? In this episode of the NAESP Principal Podcast, Xavier Reed discusses these questions and more with Sharon Porter, the newest fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership. Sharon Porter is principal of Rose Valley Elementary School in Fort Washington, Maryland, and has just started her inaugural year as fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership. Xavier Reed is principal of Central Middle School in Wayzata, Minnesota, and is continuing his second year as fellow at the center.

It's all too easy to assume that schools need to focus only on standards and benchmarks at the expense of everything else. Baltimore-based principal Traci Mathena joins us today to explain how enriching educational opportunities are something all students should receive, and shares how her school is benefitting from play-based and place-based learning. Traci Mathena is principal of Creative City Public Charter School in Baltimore, Maryland. Liz Garden is principal of Henry P. Clough Elementary school in Mendon Massachusetts, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership. Scott McLeod is professor of educational leadership at the University of Colorado, Denver, and a fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.

Today we're joined by members of NAESP's Latino+ Network to discuss the perspectives of Latino students, staff, and administrators. Whether it's the unique needs of students, engaging with the broader community, or the importance of representation in teaching and leadership, understanding these perspectives is crucial to the success of our schools. Annette Sanchez is principal of Hampton-Moreno-Dugat Early Childhood Center in Beeville, Texas, and serves as NAESP state representative for Texas. Chris Jackson is principal of Hollinger K-8 School in Tuscon, Arizona.

Quality early childhood education has a huge impact on any student's success as they learn and grow. Often those with limited experience with their youngest learners quickly find themselves searching for more ways improve in this crucial area. Today we talk with one educator who's commitment to improving learning in the early grades empowered her practice and made a real difference in her school. Leslie Selberg Viveiros, is fine arts coordinator at the Carlucci American International School of Lisbon in Portugal. Julie Bloss, a retired principal, is fellow at the NAESP Center for Early Learning Leadership and instructor for NAESP's Principal Leadership for The Early Grades program.

Though a title change can quickly take someone from a team member to its leader, the qualities one needs to lead stem from a career long journey of growth, and principals have a special role to play in fostering this leadership at their schools. Texas school leaders Dr. Shelby Calabrese and Dr. Alejandra Perez join us to discuss how better hiring practices and a culture of recognition can help create a robust pipeline to leadership. Dr. Shelby Calabrese is principal of Harvard Elementary School in Houston, Texas. Dr. Alejandra Perez is assistant principal of Harvard Elementary School in Houston, Texas. Danny Bauer is a principal retention development expert, best-selling author, and host of the Better Leader, Better Schools podcast.

School leaders have a huge role to play when it comes to the success of special education in their schools. Principals can shape how IEP meetings are conducted, ensure specialists are getting what they need, and set the tone for the entire school's approach to special education. We sat down with folks from the newly formed Lead IDEA Center to discuss this role, and how school leaders can move from simply meeting obligations to truly committing to improving special education. Abigail Foley, Ed.D. is director of the Lead IDEA Center at the American Institutes for Research. David Bateman, Ph.D. is co-principal investigator at the Lead IDEA Center. Lynn Holdheide, M.S. is co-principal investigator at the Lead IDEA Center. Andy Jacks, Ed.D. is principal at Ellis Elementary School in Manassas, Virginia, and senior fellow at the NAESP Centers for Advancing Leadership.

As the academic year starts back up, principals have an opportunity to hone in on their school's unique identity. Taking time to truly reflect on the culture and demographics of a school and its community can help leaders set the tone, vision, and direction for their students. Join us today as we discuss strategies that center student voice and agency, and how principals can leverage their school's identity to foster a strong and positive learning environment. Quennel Cooper, Ed.D. is principal of Prairie View Elementary School in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Harold McCray, Ed.D. is founding principal of MacArthur High School in Washington, D.C. Xavier Reed is principal of Central Middle School in Wayzata, Minnesota, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership. Dr. Ryan Daniel is principal of Fort Foote Elementary School in Fort Washington, Maryland, and previously also served as fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership.

Hiring can be a challenging process for any principal, but getting it right is crucial to the success of your school. Today we discuss why being intentional in our hiring practices is so important. We explore strategies for evaluating needs, fostering inclusivity, and navigating the dual nature of hiring: mourning departures while seizing opportunities to fill vital roles within the team. Dr. Ryan Daniel is principal of Fort Foote Elementary School in Fort Washington, Maryland, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership. Xavier Reed is principal of Central Middle School in Wayzata, Minnesota, and also serves as a fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership.

As summer approaches, principals will no doubt be reflecting on their schools' progress, and what it means heading into the school year. And as with any process, equity should be a key area of consideration by school leaders. In this episode, we discuss how personal experiences influence equity approaches, how to establish common definitions, creating supportive systems, and building capacity for equitable leadership within schools and districts. Dr. Ryan Daniel is principal of Fort Foote Elementary School in Fort Washington, Maryland, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership. Xavier Reed is principal of Central Middle School in Wayzata, Minnesota, and also serves as a fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership.

Project-based learning (PBL) isn't a new concept, but that doesn't mean there aren't new ways to approach it. South Carolina principal Beth Foster joins us to talk about how her school is innovating it's implementation of PBL, strengthening student literacy, relationships, and more. Beth Foster is principal of Anderson Mill Elementary in Moore, South Carolina. Liz Garden is principal of Henry P. Clough Elementary school in Mendon Massachusetts, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership. Scott McLeod is professor of educational leadership at the University of Colorado, Denver, and a fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.

In order for students to learn or for teachers to teach, attending to mental health is crucial. What role do principals play in ensuring those needs are met in their schools? Equetta Jones is joined by Cynthia Cardenas and Dr. Jerod Phillips to discuss strategies to help their students, staff, and school community with their mental health needs. Cynthia Cardenas is principal of Orchard Elementary School in Orem, Utah. Dr. Jerod Phillips is principal of David E. Robinson Elementary School in Magnolia, Delaware. Equetta Jones is principal of Love Creek Elementary School in Lewes, Delaware, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Early Career Principal Community of Practice.

Providing a safe and secure environment is one of the most essential obligations for anyone looking after children, and principals have a unique role to play in creating such an environment at their schools. Today Equetta Jones talks school safety with principals Ashley Farrington and Dr. Jessica Grant, sharing their strategies for ensuring students, staff, and families feel safe and secure at their schools. Ashley Farrington is principal of Birchview Elementary School in Plymouth, Minnesota, and president-elect of the Minnesota Elementary School Principals' Association. Dr. Jessica Grant is dedicated leader of a K-5 school in Prince Georges County Public Schools in Maryland. Equetta Jones is principal of Love Creek Elementary School in Lewes, Delaware, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Early Career Principal Community of Practice.

A principal's job involves a broad variety of roles, responsibilities, and communities. So it stands to reason that any school leader seeking to improve their practice should seek to grow in multiple ways. Dr. Ryan Daniel and Liz Garden, both of whom work within the NAESP Centers for Advancing Leadership, sit down with host Andy Jacks to discuss how this work has helped themselves and their peers grow. Dr. Ryan Daniel is principal of Fort Foote Elementary School in Fort Washington, Maryland, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership. Liz Garden is principal of Henry P. Clough Elementary school in Mendon Massachusetts, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership. Andy Jacks, Ed.D. is principal at The Nokesville School in Nokesville, Virginia, and senior fellow at the NAESP Centers for Advancing Leadership. Learn more about the NAESP Centers for Advancing Leadership at naesp.org/CAL

Most people intuitively understand kindness, but defining what it means, how it impacts those around us, and how to practice it can be truly revealing. We're joined by Houston Kraft, co-founder of CharacterStrong, and Nikki Sparks, lead of the American Student Council Association (ASCA), to discuss the ways principals, staff, and students specifically can lead with empathy to create a kinder school and community. Houston Kraft is co-founder of CharacterStrong, an organization providing curriculum and training to help teach leadership, character, and social-emotional skills, and author of Deep Kindness, and Be Kind. Nikki Sparks is assistant executive director of executive services and recognition programs at NAESP, administering programs such as ASCA, the President's Education Awards, and the National Distinguished Principal® program. Donna McGuire is assistant principal at The Park Terrace School in New York City, a 2023 NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal, and moderates the NAESP Assistant Principal Community of Practice.

This July in Nashville, NAESP is excited to be hosting its annual conference jointly with the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) for UNITED: The National Conference on School Leadership. Host Andy Jacks is joined by NAESP President-Elect Kevin Armstrong and Associate Executive Director of Professional Learning Gracie Branch, to discuss what to expect and how school leaders and educators from all grade levels can learn and grow this summer. Kevin Armstrong, Ed.D. is principal of DuPont Hadley Middle School in Old Hickory, Tennessee, and president-elect of NAESP. Gracie Branch, Ph.D., is associate executive director of professional learning at NAESP. Andy Jacks, Ed.D. is principal at The Nokesville School in Nokesville, Virginia, and senior fellow at the NAESP Centers for Advancing Leadership. Learn more and register today at theunitedconference.org.

School transformation is about more than just a change in name, or even a change in leadership. For Eric Chagala, principal of San Diego's VIDA Academy, culture is key. Chagala shares his story with Center for Innovative Leadership fellows Liz Garden and Scott Mcleod, and talks about the real reasons for VIDA Academy's successes. Eric Chagala, Ed.D. is is the founding principal of the Vista Innovation & Design Academy (VIDA) in San Diego, California. Liz Garden is principal of Henry P. Clough Elementary school in Mendon Massachusetts, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership. Scott McLeod is professor of educational leadership at the University of Colorado, Denver, and a fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.

Should I stay, or should I go? That's the question many assistant or aspiring principals are asking themselves when considering whether to transition fully into the principalship. We sit down with two APs to discuss their advice on the when, how, and why of becoming a principal. Shay Lewis is assistant principal at CREC Academy of Aerospace and Engineering Elementary School in Rocky Hills, Connecticut. Delaney Rosenberg is assistant principal at a pre-K–8 school in Fremont, New Hampshire. Donna McGuire is assistant principal at The Park Terrace School in New York City, a 2023 NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal, and moderates the NAESP Assistant Principal Community of Practice.

School leaders play a crucial role in guiding their teachers' math instruction. Donna McGuire, moderator of the NAESP Assistant Principal Community of Practice, is joined by two educators to share strategies specifically for APs that can help teachers conquer math anxiety, improve their pedagogy, and ultimately give math meaning at their schools. Sabrina Antonelli is principal of Norwood Elementary School in Warwick, Rhode Island, and a 2023 NAESP National Distinguished Principal. Sherry Knight is director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Equity in the Burlington (New Jersey) City School District. Donna McGuire is assistant principal at The Park Terrace School in New York City, a 2023 NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal, and moderates the NAESP Assistant Principal Community of Practice.

One of a school leader's most important roles is to build connections with their entire school community. In particular, it's essential to ensure that engagement is culturally responsive and includes all students, families, and stakeholders. In this episode, we discuss strategies for fostering inclusive partnerships, and how crucial it is for students' holistic development, success, and well-being. Dr. Ryan Daniel is principal of Fort Foote Elementary School in Fort Washington, Maryland, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership. Xavier Reed is principal of Central Middle School in Wayzata, Minnesota, and also serves as a fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership.

When a lack of belonging is felt, it can have a huge impact on our personal lives. Today's episode centers on how a culture of belongingness and inclusion can be fostered at their schools. We discuss why it is important to create a sense of acceptance, inclusion, and identity, and what it means to allow students, staff, and families to come to school as their authentic selves. Dr. Ryan Daniel is principal of Fort Foote Elementary School in Fort Washington, Maryland, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership. Xavier Reed is principal of Central Middle School in Wayzata, Minnesota, and also serves as a fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership.

We know that a great school leader can have a powerful impact on the success of a school and its students. But how exactly do we get great principals? We sat down with Dr. Linda Darling-Hammond to discuss the latest research on developing effective principals, and how policymakers, districts, and educators can ensure school leaders have what they need to grow and thrive. Dr. Linda Darling-Hammond is President and CEO of the Learning Policy Institute. She is also the Charles E. Ducommun Professor of Education Emeritus at Stanford University where she founded the Stanford Center for Opportunity Policy in Education and served as the faculty sponsor of the Stanford Teacher Education Program, which she helped to redesign. Liz Garden is principal of Henry P. Clough Elementary school in Mendon Massachusetts, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership. Dr. Scott McLeod is professor of educational leadership at the University of Colorado, Denver, and a fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.  

Principals have an ethical obligation to ensure their students are provided an equitable education. But that's easier said than done, especially in the midst of charged conversations surrounding school communities. Mark Anthony Gooden joins us to discuss how principals can effectively discuss and implement plans to improve equity at their schools, and why it's so important that they do so. Mark Anthony Gooden is Christian A. Johnson Endeavor Professor in Education Leadership, director of the Endeavor Antiracist & Restorative Leadership Initiative, and chair of the Department of Organization & Leadership at the Teachers College of Columbia University in New York City. Liz Garden is principal of Henry P. Clough Elementary school in Mendon Massachusetts, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership. Scott McLeod is professor of educational leadership at the University of Colorado, Denver, and a fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership. Want to learn more? Check out Gooden's Principal magazine article, "When the Fight for Equity Becomes an Ethical Dilemma." – https://bit.ly/3QZlWuJ

By creating a shared voice, you can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of your school communities' different cultural, economic, and geographic circumstances to ultimately better serve your school. In their first episode together, Center for Diversity leadership fellows Dr. Ryan Daniel and Xavier Reed team up to discuss what shared voice means to them, and how they implement it through their leadership. Dr. Ryan Daniel is principal of Fort Foote Elementary School in Fort Washington, Maryland, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership. Xavier Reed is principal of Central Middle School in Wayzata, Minnesota, and also serves as a fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership.

Although policies made at the local, state, and federal level can profoundly impact schools, it doesn't have to be a one-way street. School leaders are perfectly positioned to both know what educators need, and to effectively communicate with policy-makers. We sat down with two principals to discuss how they stay engaged with lawmakers, and what steps school leaders can take to embrace the role of principal advocate. Joshua Gill is principal of Ayaprun Elitnaurvik Elementary School in Bethel, Alaska, and a 2023 National Distinguished Principal. Samantha Walder is principal of Tea Area Legacy Elementary School in Tea, South Dakota, and a 2023 National Distinguished Principal. David Griffith is associate executive director of policy and advocacy at NAESP.

Principals are charged with ensuring their schools adhere to standards, whether it's related to curriculum, building safety, or otherwise. But foundational to a school leader's practice are ethical standards, which are woven throughout everything they do. We sat down with several administrators to discuss what it means to be an ethical leader, and how principals can best hold themselves to the highest standards. Scott Borba is superintendent-principal of Le Grand Union Elementary School District in Califor­nia. He also sits on NAESP's board as the repre­sentative of Zone 9 and is an adjunct professor at California's State University– Stanislaus for school law. Diane Edwards is chief academic officer for Chesapeake (Virginia) Public Schools and supports NAESP in coaching mentors. Jayne Ellspermann is founder and CEO of Jayne Ellspermann LLC, a school leadership development company. She has spent 40 years in education, 25 of them as a school principal.

Whether it's through conferences, their district, or even social media, great things can happen when school leaders connect to discuss problems of practice and strategies for success. Today's guests share how their unique opportunity to do so on a frequent and consistent basis through "Mastermind" groups has helped them grow as leaders and improve their schools. Andrea Thompson works at the Delaware State Department of Education, and serves as facilitator for NAESP Mastermind Groups. Raine Bradley serves as an assistant principal at Glasgow Middle School in Alexandria, Virginia. Jessica Zimmer is principal of Forest Lake Elementary School in Wantagh, New York.

The role of principal can be a lonely one, which is why it is essential to find meaningful support networks. That's especially true for educators like Edward Anderson, Damon Qualls, and Farrell Thomas of the Bold Leadership Network. They joined us to discuss the unique challenges and successes that come with leading as a black male educator, and how connecting with each other has improved their practice, well-being, and the school communities they serve. Edward Anderson is executive director of On Track Greenville, leveraging public and private partnerships to keep kids on track to graduate from high school. Damon Qualls is a former principal from Greenville, South Carolina, and co-founder and consultant at the Bold Leadership Network. Farrell Thomas is principal of The Gray Court-Owings Elementary & Middle School in Gray Court, South Carolina.

In part two of our conversation on back-to-school approaches from NAESP's annual conference, Danny Bauer is joined by principals Carmen Maring, Ginny Gills, and Loren Brody to discuss more strategies for success as they begin their school year. Whether it's being present in their practice, emphasizing their own growth, or prioritizing the right kinds of work, they have plenty to share with one another and their fellow school leaders. Carmen Maring, Ed.D. is principal of Gull Lake Middle School in Richland, Michigan, and serves as the NAESP Director at Large, Middle-Level. Ginny Gills is principal of Cumberland County Elementary School in Cumberland, Virginia, and serves on the Virginia Association of Elementary School Principals Board of Directors. Loren Brody serves as an elementary school principal in Alexandria, Virginia. Danny Bauer is a principal retention development expert, best-selling author, and host of the Better Leader, Better Schools podcast.

Every principal has a different approach when planning for the new school year. What challenges they face, and the solutions they seek. NAESP's annual conference presented the perfect opportunity for school leaders to come together and share their stories and strategies. Principals Danya Woods and Brian Miller sat down with Danny Bauer to discuss their approaches, and how they can learn from each other to ensure success going into the school year. Danya Tiara Woods is assistant principal at Joseph E. Johnson Elementary school in Wilmington, Delaware. Brian T. Miller is principal of North Middle School in Great Falls, Montana. Danny Bauer is a principal retention development expert, best-selling author, and host of the Better Leader, Better Schools podcast.

Summer is typically the ideal time for schools to begin to fill vacancies and plan for the upcoming year. For principals, it is important to be utilizing equitable hiring practices when identifying the best teachers for our students. Ryan Daniel shares some of her experiences and strategies when it comes to ensuring your school is hiring with an eye for equity. Dr. Ryan Daniel is principal of Fort Foote Elementary School in Fort Washington, Maryland, and fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership.

Assistant principal Natalie Nelson has one mantra she has always emphasized: "people precede product and process." Prioritizing those around her has helped her throughout her career as a dedicated servant leader. Adam and Rachael sit down with Natalie to talk about her role as an AP and why it's crucial to stay people-focused. Natalie Nelson serves as assistant principal at Clara H. Carlson School in Elmont, New York.

Donna McGuire, an assistant principal in New York City, is happy to rely on her principal and colleagues in her district for help. But she's also not afraid to reach out further afield to fellow APs in her network, even when they're in a different state or school community. Adam and Rachael sit down with her to find out how being facilitator for NAESP's Assistant Principal Community of Practice has shown her the value in connecting with fellow APs, and the kind of support and assistance it provides. Donna McGuire is assistant principal at P.S. 018 in New York City, and also serves as facilitator for the NAESP Assistant Principal Community of Practice.

When asked how her year is going, new assistant principal Katie Laird is quick to thank her school and community for providing a welcoming environment. But anyone starting off is bound to face surprises in their new role. Adam and Rachael sit down with Katie to discuss her first year on the job, both challenging and rewarding, and what to expect from the assistant principalship. Katie Laird serves as assistant principal at Hillcrest Middle School in Trumbull, Connecticut.

The principal's role can be a lonely one, but it doesn't have to be. Creating connections is essential for any school leader, and no one knows that better than Scott Borba. Serving as both principal and superintendent in his district in California—as well as being an active member of NAESP—he highlights the importance and benefits of staying engaged with professional associations and collegial networks. Adam and Rachael sit down with Scott to discuss his multiple roles, and his advice for educators seeking these crucial connections. Scott Borba is principal and superintendent at Le Grand Union Elementary in Le Grand, California, and serves as director of Zone 9 on the NAESP board. He is also a member of the 2017 class of NAESP National Distinguished Principals.

Knowing who we are and how we are seen in the world is as complex as it is essential. Understanding intersectionality is crucial for principals looking to better understand their students, school community, and themselves. Today Center for Diversity Leadership Fellow Dr. Edgardo Castro is joined by Dr. Jennifer Haan to discuss how intersecting identities shape us, and ways we can acknowledge, understand, and support students and educators in your school. Jennifer M. Haan, Ph.D. is an assistant professor and program coordinator of educational leadership at Sul Ross State University, who's research focuses on social justice leadership as related to the experiences of students in the K-12 public education system.

In this popular Women in Leadership episode from the NAESP Principal Podcast archive, Andrea Thompson and Jessica Gomez are joined by Florida principal Tiffany Emanuel-Wright to talk successful strategies to address negative thinking. In this episode, we cover: Recognizing when and how negativity arises Finding help through networks The impact of negative thoughts on confidence Staying focused on the work Tiffany Emanuel-Wright is principal of Love Grove Elementary in Jacksonville, Florida.

Jackie Wilson has had many roles over the course of her career in education, from being a para-professional, a classroom teacher, a principal, and an advocate for education policies. Andrea Thompson and Jessica Gomez sat down with Dr. Wilson to discuss her journey, including challenges as a woman navigating moving though her career, and her advice to others on how to learn and grow. Jackie Wilson, Ed.D. is executive director of the National Policy Board Educational Administration and Assistant Professor at the University of Delaware's School of Education.

A great tool or program can make a world of difference for a school looking to advance its teaching. But central to those programs are dedicated teachers who already demonstrate great practices every day. Missouri principal Jenni Hayes sits down with Adam and Rachael to discuss her approach to school leadership, including program vs. practice, K-12 alignment, and what brings her joy as a principal. Jenni Hayes is principal of Grandview Elementary School in Higgins, Missouri, and an NAESP state representative for the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals.