Proud Principals Podcast with Tony Cattani

Neil Burti, Director of Secondary Schools in the Cherry Hill Public Schools District in New Jersey.  2024 New Jersey Visionary Secondary School Leader of the Year Dr. Neil Burti Jr. was the principal of John A. Carusi Middle School, in Cherry Hill, NJ. Previously, he served as a principal at the elementary, middle, and high school levels and taught college courses at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. For the past decade, he has supervised clinical internships for pre-service administrators, mentored novice administrators seeking licensure, and chaired dissertation committees. During that time, his schools have received both state and national recognition, and he has presented his work around the country. Neil shares how Carusi Middle School created an opportunity for his students to amplify their voice in identifying expectations to making school decisions.    Contact Dr. Neil Burti to better understand the approach. nburti@chclc.org  

Miles Shea is the Principal of Quantico Middle School in Virginia for the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) and was recognized as the DoDEA Principal of the Year. Miles is known for transforming student success and supporting military families through initiatives like advanced AP courses and robust STEM programs. He has extensive experience within the DoDEA, previously serving at West Point Middle School and in multiple international locations. He fosters a positive, high-achieving environment for military-connected students.  Mr. Miles J. Shea arrived at Quantico Middle High School on November 16, 2020, after serving as Principal of West Point Middle School on United States Army Garrison West Point in New York. A native of Pennsylvania, Mr. Shea earned his bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and his master’s degree in Educational Leadership. Mr. Shea has served successfully as a classroom teacher, coach, committee chair, school improvement chair, assistant principal and principal and he has been nominated as Principal of the Year multiple times. As a parent he has also served as President of Project Graduation. He and his wife, a teacher at Crossroads Elementary School, have had the good fortune to serve DoDEA schools in Japan, Germany, Ft. Stewart, GA, Belgium, England, West Point and now Quantico. Among his accomplishments he conceived, designed, and implemented a full-time Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program at Feltwell ES. It was named a powerful practice during accreditation and has been profiled on the Armed Forces Network. In addition, he led his basketball team to a league championship while stationed in Germany. At West Point Middle School, he developed several innovative programs including Bulldog Bistro, Bulldog Learning Academy, EXL Mentoring, and the school was awarded a Blue Ribbon for school year 2019-2020. Under Mr. Shea’s leadership, QMHS has transitioned to the Greater Piedmont Athletic Conference (GPAC) and continues to have highly successful internal reviews in the Mid-Atlantic District. Mr. Shea believes strongly in a positive school climate with high expectations for all, shared leadership and developing vibrant partnerships throughout the community to deliver a world class education to our DoDEA students. Mr. Shea grew up in a family of eleven children and is an avid golfer, boater, cyclist, and lifelong learner. Mr. and Mrs. Shea’s daughter is a DoDEA graduate, and they are Lolli and Pops to their three wonderful grandchildren! Email: miles.shea@dodea.edu Address: 3307 Purvis Road Quantico, VA 22134-2198 United States Phone:  571-660-9555

Heather Pino-Beattie is the principal of Montgomery High School in New Jersey.  Heather proudest work as a principal has been creating and growing the Montgomery STARR Program ((Shifting Through Awareness, Regulation, and Relationships), a mental health program that now touches every secondary school in her district. From the start, it was clear that you cannot be trauma-informed without being culturally competent, and you cannot be culturally competent without being trauma-informed. STARR was their response to that truth. The program keeps students in their least restrictive environment while providing intensive support for both mental health and academics. It centers on relationships, regulation, and a sense of belonging. Whether a student is formally in the STARR program or not, the foundation of belonging that is at the center of STARR has become the foundation for every aspect of Montgomery High School. What started at the high school level now serves students across all three secondary schools and has transformed how our staff supports every learner. STARR has reduced out-of-district placements, expanded access to care, and, most importantly, helped students feel seen, safe, and valued. The most significant impact is cultural. STARR has reshaped their school community. It allows Heather and her staff to meet students where they are, whether they are thriving, struggling, or somewhere in the middle. It gives them the chance to tell every student that they matter, and that they will challenge them academically while supporting them socially and emotionally. That balance of care and expectation is what makes STARR the work Heather Pino-Beattie the most proud of. X- @PrincipalPino   Instagram - Principal Pino @MHS_Cougar_Den

Shauna Haney Principal of Ogden High School is the 2025 Utah State Principal of the Year and a 2025 NASSP National Principal of the Year Finalist.  Shauna Haney is the principal of Ogden High School in Ogden, UT. Previously, She was an assistant principal and exercise science, health, special education, and physical education teacher. A two-time Teacher of the Year (2008, 2013), she also received a Distinguished Leadership Award in 2014. Under her leadership, Ogden was one of Utah’s first schools to implement a no cell phone policy. Her leadership has also helped retain 90% of her teaching staff post-COVID, due to her focus on positive school culture and recognition of faculty and staff. Ogden is making strong progress on goals in literacy, graduation, PBIS, and talent development, and she credits its success to a dedicated faculty and staff, amazing students, and a supportive community. Shauna focuses her meaningful share on the following: - Making students and staff to feel welcome and wanted at Bogden - How to build back her staff by intentional approached of relationship building. - How she supports staff so they can support students.  - Interview practices to identify educators that care about others. - CompliMINT Cards - Tiger High Fives

Dr. Cody Killen - Principal of Brandon High School in Rankin County, Mississippi Dr. KIllen is a fixture in professional organizations. He has served on the board of MPE, served as board president of MASSP, presented at MASA, MPE, and NCEE, and even taught leadership development sessions for aspiring principals. For him, professional organizations are lifelines for school administrators. Board President- Mississippi Association of Secondary School Principals Board Member- Mississippi Professional Educators We encourage you to contact Dr. Killen for additional information about the episode.  Email -cod502@RCSD.MS Instagram - @CodyKillen1 X- @ckillen1

Dr. Todd Dain Overland Park, KS Shawnee Mission South High School 2023 Kansas State Principal of the Year NASSP Board of Directors Todd shares is proudest effort of cultivating a culture for all students to be successful. Listen and learn about his "Culture Keepers" student led team which embodies their core values.  Also to listen for: - Hard Hat Hero recognition - Champion of Culture recognition - Hiring Process - ask this one question! - One relationship at a time - Importance of Trust With over 30 years in education, Dr. Todd Dain brings a wealth of experience as the Principal of Shawnee Mission South High School since 2015. An Emporia State University alumnus, where he excelled in track and field, and a Doctorate holder from Baker University, Dr. Dain has worn many hats—teacher, coach, and administrator. His journey spans from Blue Valley Southwest HS as Associate Principal to impactful roles at Olathe Northwest HS, Shawnee Mission East, Shawnee Mission West, and Washburn Rural HS. Beyond his academic achievements, he’s a celebrated athlete from Silver Lake, Kansas, boasting multiple state championships in football and track. Life off-campus sees him alongside his wife, Dr. Jessica Dain, cherishing moments with their three children: Andie, Ashton, and Brock. X- @SMSouthTDain Email - ToddDain@smsd.org    

Jason Hayes - 2025 NASSP Oklahoma Principal of the Year Jason Hayes is the principal of Edmond Santa Fe High School in Edmond, Ok. Previously, he was an assistant high school principal, a middle school principal, and English teacher, and a coach. Under his leadership, Edmond Santa Fe is one of only three Class 6A High Schools (Oklahoma’s large enrollment category) to receive an A on its state report card for the previous two school years. The school has also been named a National Blue Ribbon School during his tenure as principal. He attributes his school’s success to a positive combination of high-achieving students, helpful teachers, engaged parents, and a supportive community that continues to promote and invest in public education. In this episode, Jason shares about Edmond Santa Fe High School's ultra impactful philanthropy culture. Double Wolf Dare Week has been a tradition for over 30 years raising more than money, as it is the "Heartbeat of the School". While last year they raised $233,000 to provide to a local non-profit organization, his students are learning more about the power of community, lifelong lessons, and all while having some fun too.  Listen and learn about an amazing tradition of giving in Oklahoma.  Feel free to contact Principal Jason Hayes for more information. Instagram -@esf.wolfpack jason.hayes@edmondschools.net

Lewis Bradford is the 2025 Mississippi Secondary Principal of the Year. Assistant Principal of the Year 2024.    Lewis Bradford – Northwest Rankin High School, MIssissippi.  Mr. Bradford’s leadership, vision, and commitment to student success have made a lasting impact at Northwest Rankin and across our district.  Lewis shares shares how he grows Family Bond and Pride in their school, focusing on Family atmosphere, Teacher Retention, and Trust.  Being Stronger on the Backside of Adversity. Lewis describes his proudest moments were inside the most difficult times. Our most difficult moments taught us who we really are. These moments put a spotlight on our strengths and shines even brighter on our weaknesses. The moments are challenging times that can teach us if we are truly being effective with our efforts to accomplish our intended goal. Opportunities are provided everyday - are you taking advantage of all opportunities to invoke the change you want to your organization.   X/Twitter  @MrB_notBelding Instagram  @lewisbradford81

Dr. Austin is the 2025 Louisiana Secondary Principal of the Year.   Amanda Austin, EdD, is the director of the Math, Science, and Arts (MSA) Academy East in St. Gabriel, LA. MSA Academy East is the magnet program of East Iberville High School. Previously, she was the principal of North Iberville High School, which had been shuttered for more than a decade. With community support, input from district leadership, and full hiring autonomy, North Iberville is a thriving traditional school with a STEM magnet program. With her recent participation in the Louisiana Superintendent’s Academy and acceptance into ASCD’s Champion in Education cohort, she continuously strives to grow as an instructional leader and expects to lead her school to meet or exceed each student’s individual growth target. Through teamwork with all stakeholders, she believes that all students can and will succeed.     X - @dr_amandaaustin/ @MSAEastKnights Instagram - @dr_amandaaustin/ @msaeastknights

Lindsey Allen is the NASSP 2025 Georgia Principal of the Year   Lindsey Allen has served as principal of Walnut Grove High School in Walnut Grove, GA, since 2020. Previously, he was the principal of multiple schools and executive officer of secondary schools in Bibb County. Since taking the helm at Walnut Grove, he has led the school to a five-star rating from the Georgia Department of Education on the School Climate Star Rating and secured AP Honor School recognition in five categories: AP Expansion, Humanities, Humanities Achievement, STEM, and STEM Achievement. The school has also been awarded the PBIS Distinguished designation and most recently earned the Math Leader recognition from the state for outstanding student growth and achievement on the Georgia Milestones. His leadership is marked by innovation, high expectations, and a relentless focus on student success. Twitter: @WGHS_Principal    Email - lindsey.allen@walton.k12.ga.us

Dr. Flynn has dedicated over 21 years to the City of Burlington Public School District, beginning his career as a special education teacher.   His move into administration began as a Vice-Principal at Burlington City High School (2006–2010), followed by a tenure as Principal at Wilbur Watts Intermediate School (2010–2013). Dr. Flynn then returned to Burlington City High School, serving as Principal from 2013 to 2022. He transitioned to the Central Office in 2022, serving as Director of Research/Planning, Evaluation, Operations, and State and Federal Programs before being named Assistant Superintendent in February 2025. He also serves as the District School Safety Specialist and previously coached the Boy’s Basketball team from 2004–2010. Dr. Flynn earned his doctorate in Educational Leadership from Rowan University. His dissertation, "High School Principal's Perception and Experience with Student Voice and Youth-Adult Partnerships," reflects his passion for the topic, which he has presented on at the national level (National Association of Secondary School Principals and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development) and the state level (New Jersey Association of School Administrators). Additionally, Dr. Flynn is a strong advocate for School Zone Safety and student pedestrian safety.

Dr. Mindy Milavsky, principal of Lawrence Middle School in Mercer County, NJ, has dedicated her career to fostering a school environment that promotes compassion, empathy, and kindness. As an educator for over 31 years, Dr. Milavsky has made great strides in providing students with an educational experience that complements high standards in all academic disciplines with a focus on developing students’ social and emotional competencies. This initiative has led to innovative curricula, community service programs, and peer leadership experiences. Under her leadership, Lawrence Middle School has received 9 Promising Practice Awards from the Character Education Partnership and has been identified as a NJ State School of Character. Beyond the school day, Dr. Milavsky serves as an instructor for the nationally recognized NJEXCEL program, inspiring future administrators to lead with heart. In 2023, Milavsky was honored with the titles of NJPSA Visionary Principal of the Year and NASSP New Jersey Principal of the Year, affirming her commitment to empowering students both academically and emotionally. Email mmilavsky@ltps.org Personal and School X/Twitter Tag @mmilavsky, @LMSNation   Personal and School Instagram Tag @milmindy, @lmsnation

Terence Johnson is an assistant principal at Cumberland Regional High School District, New Jersey. Terence Johnson -  New Jersey State Assistant Principal of the Year for 2019 by the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association (NJPSA)/National Association of Secondary School Principals.   Terence shares how his work with the CRHS Freshman Seminar/Senior Mentoring program, along with the positive relationships he has built over the years with his students. The Freshman Seminar/Senior Mentoring program, established at Cumberland Regional under Johnson’s leadership, partners at-risk ninth-graders with role model senior mentors to work together during and outside of class time on character and leadership development, the promotion of positive school culture, and setting and progressing toward the achievement of goals for academic success.   Terence Johnson Assistant Principal 856-451-9400, ext. 256 johnson@crhsd.org

Rebecca Belkota is the 2025  New York Middle School Principal of the Year   Rebecca Belkota is the secondary principal of Perry Junior Senior High School in Perry, NY. She has cultivated a school culture rooted in strong relationships, with a focus on mental health and social-emotional learning. She introduced a structured process for data review and established an MTSS team that collaborates weekly to analyze both quantitative data and qualitative feedback from instructional staff to ensure comprehensive support for students and their families. Under her guidance, instructional teams work collaboratively to develop standards-based curriculum, aligning instruction and assessment. She consistently champions innovative teaching and curriculum to create engaging, student-centered learning. Her leadership has resulted in notable improvements in student achievement and a significant increase in graduation rates, reflecting her deep commitment to academic excellence and the holistic success of every student.

After 29 years in public education, including 18 years as a school leader, Todd left his dream job.  As a high school principal, in the neighborhood where he lived, and the high school for all five of his children, Todd stepped away in 2025. Todd Bloomer is currently the Director of School Leadership with the Archdiocese of San Antonio. In this new role, Todd coaches and empowers principals.  Todd shares his experiences of how he managed "You are always the principal" in the community, social media, family, and friends.  Website: https://www.toddmbloomer.com/about-1 Book https://www.toddmbloomer.com/theblueprint   You can follow Todd on every social platform: @toddbloomer - Linkedin  @todd_bloomer_author (Instagram and Tik Tok) @bloomer_sa (X)  email: bloomertodd09@gmail.com   

Jerry Mack is the 2025 Nebraska Secondary Principal of the Year. Jerry Mack has served as the principal of Chadron High School in Chadron, NE, for 14 years. Under his leadership, the rural school has often been recognized as one of the top schools in the state according to U.S. News & World Report and Niche.com. He has emphasized restorative practices, supported the integration of technology in instruction, and co-hosted a school leaders podcast. He has spoken at numerous conferences to promote communication and school safety, and he has advocated for including universal mental health student screenings in annual health screenings for all students. He is dedicated to creating a positive, supportive environment for both students and staff. His leadership is defined by his commitment to excellence and deep pride in serving his school community. Email - jerry.mack@chadronschools.net X- @jerry_mack @ChadronHS Instagram - @mackjerrye  and @chadronhs

Erica Schnee is the 2025 Montana Secondary Principal of the Year.  Erica Schnee has been the principal of Gallatin High School in Bozeman, MT, since it opened in 2020. Previously, she was the assistant principal and a government and economics teacher. An inspirational and dedicated leader who has prioritized community, culture, and student well-being, she has overseen exponential growth in the community’s multilingual student population. Under her leadership, the school has implemented initiatives resulting in a welcoming environment, high student engagement, and academic success for all students. As an administrator, her open-door policy and mentorship have had a significant impact on staff development, leading to a cohesive team. Episode Erica shares the following: - How she opened a new school - Utilizing consensus process - Collaborative Leadership Style - Creating School Culture  - "Strong Foundations - Expanding to new Horizons" - X -@GallatinRaptors and @MsSchneeGHS Instagram - @gallatinraptors

Christian Ledesma is the 2025 Minnesota Principal of the Year Christian Ledesma is the principal of Roosevelt High School in Minneapolis, where he leads with a strong focus on safety, equity, and academic excellence. Returning after the pandemic, he addressed students’ physical and emotional well-being through safety campaigns, increased supervision, and student-led cultural celebrations. Under his leadership, Roosevelt strengthened its partnership with the International Baccalaureate program, emphasizing collaborative planning, professional development, and character education. Ledesma’s leadership has created a culture of care and academic rigor, preparing students to thrive as globally-minded, reflective, and principled members of their communities. In this episode Christian shares: - how he grew enrollment 300+ students in 4 years.     - Community events     - Junior Teddy Program     - Academic achievements Backwards planning of student dreams - asking every student their goal after HS, and creating a plan aligned with their goal.  - Walking people through hard stuff Instagram - @Principal_Ledesma Schoo and  @FollowTheTeddy

Kelly Messmer - South Dakota's 2025 Secondary Principal of the Year Kelly Messmer is a dedicated principal in rural South Dakota who is determined to provide his ranching-country students with opportunities that reach far beyond the traditional classroom. Recognizing the challenges of limited access in a rural community, he has brought career education directly to his school through a mobile experience with skilled instructors each semester. Students now have hands-on learning in welding, electrical work, and carpentry—that expose them to skills that not only prepare them for a possible career opportunity but also lifelong applicable knowledge. His vision ensures that, despite geographic barriers, his students have endless opportunities to succeed and thrive Kelly Messmer is the principal of Harding County High School in Buffalo, SD. Along with his principal duties, he also serves as the district’s activities director. Previously, he was the district’s technology and testing coordinator. He has been teacher and administrator at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. He strives to ensure every student is treated with respect and given every opportunity to succeed academically and socially. He credits his supportive superintendent, amazing staff, hardworking students, school board, and community for working together to help create a safe and successful learning environment.   X- @messmerHC kelly.messmer@k12.sd.us  

State Principal of the Year Series - Nevada Ryan Cordia - 2025 Nevada Principal of the Year Northeast Career & Technical Academy Ryan Cordia is in his second year as the inaugural principal of Northeast Career and Technical Academy in North Las Vegas, NV. The school is the first in state to implement in-person, self-paced, mastery blended learning, which breaks away from the traditional Carnegie Unit model. As principal, he created a framework for the school where every student receives career coaching and emotional intelligence training each semester. The purpose of this training is to shorten the timeline for students from freshman orientation to revenue generation. Previously, he was named Nevada’s CTE Administrator of the Year and 360Schools’ Principal of the Year. Instagram - @northeastcta https://newsroom.ccsd.net/ccsd-administrator-named-2025-state-principal-of-the-year/ (702) 799-7500 (ext. 4101)