The NAESP Principal Podcast

In today’s episode, “Lead with Connection in Special Education,” principal and host Equetta Jones talks to Nia Abdullah and Abby Foley from the Lead IDEA center about how principals can best approach serving the special education needs of their schools. Throughout their conversation, they cover how leaders can… Read more

In today’s episode, Liz Garden and Scott McLeod from NAESP’s Center for Innovative Leadership talk with Eric Sheninger about what innovation really means in schools—and how leaders can challenge conventional thinking without simply adding more to anyone’s plate. From purposeful technology use to deeper learning,… Read more

In today’s episode, Kim Taylor and Julie Bloss from NAESP’s Center for Early Learning Leadership talk with Jillayne Flanders and Dr. Orinthia Harris about how school leaders can begin conversations about empathy, equity, belonging, and anti-racism with young learners, staff, and families. From leading with heart to… Read more

In today’s episode, "Home Visits and the Power of Personal Connection," Andy Jacks talks with veteran principal Matt Moyer about building stronger relationships with students and families—and creating a school culture where every child feels seen and valued. Matt Moyer is principal of Rupert Elementary School in… Read more

Every year, extraordinary school leaders from across the country are recognized through the NAESP National Distinguished Principal® program, and come together in Washington D.C. to meet each other and share their stories.. In this special episode of the podcast, we've curated a selection of their speeches to highlight… Read more

In today’s episode, hosts Liz Garden and Dr. Scott McLeod talk with Dr. Kristan Rodriguez about what it takes to create schools where every learner can succeed. From understanding student variability and building systems that work to shifting from compliance to authentic engagement, this conversation explores… Read more

Today’s episode explores what new leaders need to know about managing change. Assistant principal Donna McGuire talks with Dr. Dallas Lee about leading with clarity, slowing down under pressure, and building trust when everyone is watching. Dallas Lee, Ed.D. serves as instructional superintendent at the District of… Read more

In today’s episode, host Equetta Jones talks with Ashley Farrington and Dr. Jerod Phillips Sr. about how school leaders build the relationships and support systems that help them grow from assistant principal to principal—and thrive once they get there. This conversation explores how connection can turn leadership… Read more

Originally released 12/14/23: 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,… Read more

We talk with educator and innovator Katie Fielding about how principals can help teachers and students use AI safely, creatively, and ethically. From setting clear expectations to helping students think critically about new tools, we explore how principals can build a culture of curiosity and responsibility around… Read more

In today’s episode, Dr. Sharon Porter talks with Katy Kennedy and David Griffith about why regulation is at the heart of every student’s success. They discuss how schools can better support students and staff—through counseling, co-regulation, and policy changes—while modeling the practices we want children to learn.… Read more

In today’s episode, principal Andy Jacks talks with leaders Jessica Quinter and Kenny Newby about what it takes to enter a new school as an experienced principal. From building trust fast to aligning with supervisors and protecting your own well-being, this conversation offers practical strategies you can put to work… Read more

In today’s episode, principal Equetta Jones talks with experts from the Lead IDEA Center about what it takes to lead schools where every student belongs—and succeeds. From preparation gaps and staffing shortages to shifting mindsets and building strong systems, this conversation offers insight and practical strategies… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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.… Read 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,… Read more

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,… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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,… Read more

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,… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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… Read more

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,… Read more

Sometimes we’re caught looking for that one silver bullet for school improvement. But when asked how he leads his high-performing school, Arizona principal Chris Jackson gives credit to the families and students that come in every day. Adam Welcome and Rachael George sit down with Jackson to discuss how a… Read more

Principals may be leaders at their school, but they’re always at their best when learning with and from their colleagues, community, and beyond. That could mean Idaho principal Tim Lowe bringing together staff and community members to learn about their culture, or Washington principal Jack Arend working with fellow… Read more

School leaders must understand that in order to build a positive school culture they must prioritize understanding the experiences and perspectives of others. Empathetic leadership is an essential component of school leadership. Today, Dr. Ryan Daniel and Dr. Edgardo Castro discuss ways principals can build and… Read more

Ensuring a fair and equitable education for students is essential to their success and well-being, which is why it is so important for principals to understand implicit bias. Whether it manifests in students, staff, or importantly themselves, school leaders should be aware of the impact of bias and how to address it.… Read more

For educators seeking new perspectives and ways to grow, it's hard to compete with a good book. And as Adam and Rachael discuss in this special episode, those books don't even have to be education focused to be of value. From vinyards to music venues, principals can read between the lines to find inspiration for their… Read more

Being a relatively new principal at your school is hard enough as it is—adding a pandemic on top of that definitely makes it harder. Arizona principal Garth Cupp sits down with us to discuss how despite these challenges, his school managed to get it done and continues to do so. Garth Cupp is principal of in Kyrene… Read more

Every student in my classroom deserves an equal chance despite their differences, what can we do as school leaders to ensure that? Equity in education is the process of reforming practices, policies, and procedures at the school and district levels to support academic fairness and inclusion. This ensures every child… Read more

Personal success as a principal should be applauded, but the true measure of achievement for leaders is how they contribute to the success of those around them. In this episode we sit down with Donna McGuire as she shares how, as a woman in leadership, she embraces the concept of "lifting as we climb" Donna McGuire is… Read more

What does it take to effectively lead a school? There are plenty of skills and strategies to look to, but critical to the success of any principal is effective preparation and development. Adam and Rachael talk to Marjorie Wechsler, a researcher at the Learning Policy Institute, to discuss their recent study,… Read more

Why did you become a principal? What would you tell teachers at your school to get them to actually want to become an administrator? These are just a few questions Maryland principal Ed Cosentino reflected on in today's episode. Join the conversation as we discuss: What people don't understand about being a principal… Read more

In this popular episode from the NAESP Principal Podcast archive, Oregon educator LaKeyshua Washington joins us to discuss effective supervision and evaluation of teachers and staff, covering: The good and bad of evaluations and supervision The difference between supervising and coaching How to get the most out of the… Read more

Principals put in a lot of work towards taking care of the staff, students, and families they serve. But too often they forget to take care of themselves. Adam and Rachael sit down to discuss what wellness means to them and how to practice it every day. Plus, we hear wellness tips and strategies from school leaders… Read more

With all the stress and challenges faced by school leaders this year, how do principals deal with it all? As she transitions into the role of principal coach, Dr. Shana Henry has some sage advice for new and veteran principals alike on how they can better pace themselves and still lead effectively. Adam and Rachel sit… Read more

It’s easy to get siloed as a principal, and forget the wealth of advice and support that can come from fellow school leaders. Adam and Rachael sit down with a principal they met at this year’s conference in Louisville, Nicole Boone, to chat about the job and share some simple leadership tips. In this episode we… Read more

There's a fine line between overconfidence and selling yourself short. Walking this tightrope can be challenging, particularly for women in leadership. Alabama educator Dr. Demica Sanders has honed her confidence over her career, and shares with Andrea and Jessica how and why it is important to walk and talk with… Read more

As principals start off the year and work on school improvement or professional growth, its helpful to identify strategies that can help them throughout the year. Adam Welcome and Rachael George sit down with veteran Idaho principal Heather Hepworth to discuss what works, including: Starting off strong at the… Read more

Any good leader knows when to both listen, and when to raise their hand and speak up. But gender-based expectations about using your voice and being confident are too often limiting for women in leadership. Andrea Thompson and Jessica Gomez sit down with principal Jennifer Black to discuss: Importance of trust… Read more

Successful leaders are generally given license to be proud of their work, but all too often women are made to feel either that they have achieved less or that they should be quiet about their achievements. Center for Women in Leadership fellows Jessica Gomez and Andrea Thompson sit down with principal Shanessa Fenner… Read more

Social-emotional learning (SEL) has become a priority for schools in recent years, especially with the impact of the pandemic. Implementing high-quality SEL that meets the needs of all students is essential, but requires a strong understanding of fundamentals to. That's why NAESP Executive Director Earl Franks sat… Read more

At this year's conference in Louisville, Adam Welcome sat down for a quick chat with Jessica Cabeen to share strategies and ideas for practicing principals. In this special episode, they discuss: Focusing on strengths instead of weaknesses How to start connecting with other leaders How crucial work-life balance is to… Read more

Have you ever felt that despite success in your role, you feel you're somehow unworthy of it? You're not alone: This phenomenon, known as "imposter syndrome," can have negative effects on a principal's work and well-being. Andrea and Jessica sit down with school leader Tequila Lamar to discuss the what, how, and why… Read more

It's great when schools do good work, but even better when principals are able to talk about it. Good communication is essential for stakeholder engagement, and the overall success of your students and school. Adam Welcome and Rachael George are joined by Centers for Advancing Leadership fellows Dr. Ryan Daniel and… Read more

No matter how confident you are as a leader, self-doubt, anxiety, and generally negative thoughts always have a way of creeping up. Though often unavoidable, there are ways principals can address negative thinking. Andrea Thompson and Jessica Gomez are joined by Florida principal Tiffany Emanuel-Wright to talk… Read more

The first few years of a principalship can often be the hardest, but great leaders work hard every day no matter how long they've been in their role. We sit down with Missouri principal Bryan Campbell who has been leading his school for 15 years to learn. We discuss: Developing relationships with staff Maintaining a… Read more

Every leader has an important story to tell, but too often women are expected to share their successes quietly—if at all. Center for Women in Leadership fellows Jessica Gomez and Andrea Thompson sit down with Michigan principal Allyson Apsey to discuss how women can take ownership of their own stories. In this… Read more

The contributions of assistant principals at their schools can never be understated. Carise Echols should know: Her stellar service as an AP landed her an NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal award. Adam and Rachel sit down with her to talk leadership as an AP, and to discuss: Finding balance Staying… Read more

Juggling work and family life can feel overwhelming at times, especially for women. Center for Women in Leadership fellows Jessica Gomez and Andrea Thompson sit down with speaker and former principal Pam Gildersleeve-Hernandez to discuss how principals can strike the right balance between their personal and… Read more

Reading is just as important to a principals learning as it is to the students they serve. Whether it offers practical advice for educators or thoughtful tips for personal growth, a good book can have a huge impact. In this episode Adam and Rachael sit down to talk about some of their recent favorites, and recommend… Read more

Women leaders can often face unique challenges, but one strength they can draw upon should never be ignored: each other. Center for Women in Leadership fellows Jessica Gomez and Andrea Thompson sit down with Massachusetts principal Liz Garden to talk about how crucial this support can be. In this episode, we discuss:… Read more

Join Adam Welcome and Rachael George as they talk simple leadership tips that can make principals lives easier and their practice stronger. In this episode we discuss: When to treat something as urgent Keeping things simple How to manage relationships Engaging with criticism productively

Self-care can be a frequently overlooked aspect of leadership, especially for women. Jessica Gomez and Andrea Thompson, fellows at the NAESP Center for Women in Leadership, sit down with Principal Sarah Harrington to discuss: Tips for practicing self-care The value in finding a sisterhood Incorporating mindfulness… Read more

No matter what equipment or resources you have at your disposal, there's nothing more important to school success than the people working there. We sit down with Ryan Sheehy, a district-level director of human resources, to learn the best ways to find and keep great staff. In this episode we discuss: How to recruit… Read more

School improvement is an ongoing process, with changes both big and small. We sit down with Oregon principal Kimberly Miles to talk about how she leads through these changes. In this episode we discuss: What it means to be a turnaround principal How focus has shifted from before the pandemic to now How to support… Read more

Adam and Rachael sit with Oregon educators Sara Hertel and Chris Wyland to continue their discussion on the significant impact morning meetings can have on students social-emotional learning and achievement. In this episode we discuss: Staff professional development The four parts of morning meetings Two-way… Read more

Principals have to make tough calls that can have a big impact on the success of their school. And as a former NCAA official, New York principal Andrew Marotta is no stranger to making those calls. Adam and Rachael sit down to discuss: How to overcome day-to-day challenges principals face Lessons learned as an… Read more

A focused and meaningful morning meeting can have a huge impact on student academic and social-emotional learning. Adam and Rachael sit with Oregon educators Sara Hertel and Chris Wyland to talk about how they've developed their morning meetings, what works, and how to implement it. In this episode, we discuss:… Read more