Hey, gang! I am bringing you the real talk on professional development. Let’s be honest: when educators hear “professional development,” it doesn’t always spark excitement. Instead, we brace ourselves for long hours, unengaging presentations, and content irrelevant to our...

Hey gang! I’m diving into a game-changer for every school out there: culture. School culture is so much more than just the vibe in the hallway or the posters on the wall—it’s the foundation that supports everything else, including student success. When the culture thrives,...

Hey, gang! Let’s dig into something crucial for all of us in schools: the concept of “Reduce, Not Eliminate.” This mindset shift can transform how you approach problems in your classroom, school, or district.  

We all deal with issues, problems, and concerns in...

Hey, gang! I have a challenge for you this week. If you’re looking for ways to improve your school's culture and climate, this is it. The challenge is simple, but the impact can be huge. I've learned that building a positive school culture isn't about grand gestures—it's about...

Hey gang! I want to share something that can transform your school community and elevate morale: building a culture of gratitude. Let me take you on a little journey and show you how simple, intentional actions can create a ripple effect of positivity. 

Cap, Gown, Tassel, and a Thank You...

As I walk through schools across our nation, I see an unsettling trend: talented educators leaving the profession. The problem isn't a lack of capable teachers—it's our struggle to retain them. Retaining great educators requires more than acknowledgment; it demands...

Gang, returning to the classroom can be hard after a long winter break.  January is a vital time to reset your classroom and set the tone for a fantastic return to learning.  I’m excited to share three simple yet powerful communication tips you can implement in your classroom...

Exploring Student Learning Pathways  

When we think about education, we often picture a straight and narrow path—a singular road traveled by all, leading to the same destination. Yet, as teachers and learners, education is rarely a one-size-fits-all experience. Each student has...

The Co-Teaching Connection

I promise this is a school climate and culture blog, not a relationship blog! But there are certainly some common themes. Co-teaching brings a fresh dynamic to the classroom, one that’s driven by teamwork, trust, and adaptability. More than just two teachers in a...

As a former student, educator, and administrator with dyslexia, overcoming learning challenges has always been a part of my life. Over the years, as I’ve worked with students, families, and other educators, I’ve come to realize just how complex and vital this field truly is....

Efficiency and effectiveness are two concepts that often get thrown around together, yet they can feel like distant cousins in the world of education and leadership. For many of us, these terms create tension, like a marriage that constantly needs counseling. When we strive for both...

Who Are We?

In life, no good stories start with eating a salad.  Great success stories begin with a bold move, a moment of courage, a creative risk, or a leap of faith.  Many of you have tuned in and read the blogs for “Stand Tall Leadership Show” and now “The School...