Transformative Principal

In this episode of Transformative Principle, host Jethro Jones welcomes back Dr. Chad Dumas, international consultant and author of "The Teacher Team Leader Handbook." Together, they explore the crucial distinction between who you are and what you do as a leader, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, integrity, and coherence in educational leadership. Chad shares practical advice for new teacher team leaders, highlighting the foundational responsibilities of creating psychological safety, building team capacity, and doing the work. The conversation delves into actionable strategies—like the power of the pause and using a "third point" in meetings—to foster trust and effective collaboration. Listeners will come away with insights on aligning intentions with actions and building long-term, meaningful professional relationships.Two parts - who you are and what you do (being and doing)Give me a tool! Give me a process! Others did not perceive them as being genuine or authenticCoherence - striving to live a life of coherence - same person when I’m with anybodyClarity about the responsibilities - psychological safety, building capacity, doing the workCulture of NiceSocial sensitivity - nonverbal communicationEquity in turn taking - 4 quadrants for decision-making for a leader. 40 actions - here’s one:  pauseAnother one: 3rd point - Michael GrinderWhat was most valuable to you today? From The Coaching Habit.How to be a transformative principal? Think about your intentions as a person and a leader and how you can About Chad DumasDr. Chad Dumas is a Solution Tree PLC and RTI at Work®, Assessment, and Priority Schools associate and international consultant, presenter and award-winning researcher. His leadership training and coaching focuses on building capacity for self, team, and system improvement. Having been a successful teacher, principal, central office administrator, professional developer and consultant in a variety of school districts, he shares his research and knowledge in his books, Let’s Put the C in PLC, An Action Guide to Put the C in PLC, and The Teacher Team Leader Handbook,  and consulting that includes research, stories, hands-on tools, useful knowledge, and practical skills. Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode of Transformative Principal, host Jethro Jones sits down with K.C. Knudson, MTSS Coordinator at the Northwest Educational Service District, to explore the critical distinction between coaching and evaluation in education. Drawing on research and real-world experience, K.C. shares why 98% of teachers need coaching—not evaluation—and how shifting from a culture of grading to one of growth can transform schools. The conversation covers the pitfalls of traditional evaluation systems, the power of collective efficacy, and practical strategies for principals to foster collaborative, learner-centered environments. Listeners will gain actionable insights on building effective teams, de-privatizing instructional practice, and making professional learning communities truly impactful.Coaching vs. EvaluationPennsylvania training and assistance networkPennsylvania data - 98% of teachers are rated proficientGrow vs. Grade - 98% of your staff want to grow and get better. Gates foundation spent $212 Million to state that teacher evaluations do not provide meaningful growth, retain teachers, or help with student achievementWashington - research-based evaluation - targeted vs. comprehensive evaluationNeed to teach our principals how to coach more effectively. Don’t spend a lot of time talking about quality instructionPrecision over profusion - trying to add more seat time is profusionWhat do we need our teachers to be really good at. Instructional floor - Anthony MuhammedWe’ve got to be good at our craft to get to the student learning part of it. Learner objectives - produce kids that know how to be seen and heard, how to function, how to thrive in the world. The Principal is PrincipleSchools change life trajectoriesCommunity Creates EquityPrincipal as the center of a wagon wheel vs. the principal as a node of a networkSupportive leadership in the service of empowered teachersHow to be a transformative principal? Deprivatize teaching: Sit down for 30 minutes and do a teams audit: When do I have people sitting down and focusing on student learning?About K.C. KnudsonK. C. Knudson is currently the MTSS Coordinator at the Northwest Educational Service District. Prior to this role, he served as a Senior Educational Consultant, where he focused on facilitating the establishment of inclusive classrooms, schools, and districts to effectively cater to the diverse needs of all students. This work is deeply rooted in the strategic utilization of the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) guidelines and the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework. K. C. has extensive experience in providing professional learning, coaching, and technical assistance specifically aimed at supporting the implementation of inclusive practices using UDL and MTSS. His background in education leadership includes significant roles such as Director of Teaching and Learning, Assistant Superintendent, Executive Director, Principal, Assistant Principal, and Teacher. Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode of Transformative Principal, host Jethro Jones interviews Kristian Golick, founder of EduCreative, about how schools can stand out by uncovering and communicating their unique culture and emotional truth. They discuss the importance of storytelling in school marketing, the process of identifying a school's key differentiator, and how a clear, emotionally resonant message attracts both families and staff who are the right fit. Kristian shares insights on the value of external perspective, the impact of belonging and engagement on students, and practical steps for principals to start collecting stories that define their school’s identity. The episode emphasizes that when a school’s message is clear and authentic, it fosters community, increases enrollment, and creates a virtuous cycle of pride and participation among students, staff, and families.Culture is just another word for reputationHow do you figure out what the key differentiator of your school. Tell me a time when you were so proud to work at your school.Emotions and key ideasKids will love school - Why?Your school is creating a sense of belonging in your students and families. Where kids want to congregate, rather than have to congregate. How having a good vision for your school helps recruit teachersIt can be hard to see what is good in your school when you’re in the thick of itAnything created is a representation of your school’s experience. How to be a transformative principal? What’s an amazing thing that happened this week?About Kristian GolickAt EduCreative, we help schools stop sounding like everyone else. Most schools talk about programs and preparation—but parents don’t choose schools based on that. They choose based on connection. We uncover the emotional truth behind what makes your school different, and turn that into strategic, story-driven video content, that resonates with the right families. Because when your message is clear and your story connects, enrollment follows. Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Jethro Jones welcomes Patrick Mongrain, a middle school teacher, instructional coach, and restorative justice specialist, to discuss building sustainable systems in education. Patrick shares his “Moneyball” approach—leveraging data and analytics to improve classroom instruction and teacher support. He emphasizes the importance of moving beyond quick fixes and initiative fatigue by focusing on eight key practices that create hope and clarity for educators.Moneyball - Billy Bean developed a system of analytics to make a better system. Judging people based on unimportant data and perceptions. Applying a similar approach to how we teach. Spending time in different areas that see what great things are happening all over the place. Stop throwing shiny objects at the problem. The Key Performance Indicators: Class RoutineCommunity DataCorrective FeedbackInformed SupervisionOpportunities To RespondPositive FeedbackPositive Feedback RangeStudent To Teacher TimeTeaching ExpectationSystems = hopeKnowing what to do next gives people hope. That’s how systems create hope. 2% of teachers need to be evaluated, 98% of teachers need to be coached. Evaluation as a hoop to jump through. Teachers are so incredible, having an evaluation system that is so complex makes it difficult. Repeating is not the same as creating. Two injustices against teachers - evaluations Evaluation systems seem intentionally overwhelming.Initiative FatigueTrust Based Observations Edchanger Pro app - Make observations like a How to be a transformative principal? Relationships - taking the time to connect with them. Self-care is working in a system that you feel confident in. About Patrick MongrainPatrick Mongrain is a certified teacher currently serving in a TOSA role. He taught middle school history and leadership for 10 years and has spent another 10 years as a district-level instructional coach and restorative justice specialist. In his current position within the professional learning department, he divides his time evenly between teaching in classrooms, supporting school leaders in building systems, and working on district wide improvement. Patrick believes teachers are incredible, and to truly support them, we must move beyond quick fixes and do the hard work of building and sustaining systems. In this spirit, he has created a coherent instructional framework that applies a “Moneyball” approach, leveraging data and analytics on key performance indicators. He’s written a book Theory Can Only Take You So Far and developed a data collection app called Edchanger Pro that brings this system to life.Contact: E-mail: pmongrain65@comcast.netWebpage: https://www.youtube.com/@EdChanger and www.EdChanger.comApp: EdChanger Pro: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/edchanger-pro/id6741165826 LinkedIn: Patrick Mongrain Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, host Jethro Jones welcomes Derek Mitchell, CEO of Partners in School Innovation, to discuss the evolving role of schools post-pandemic, the importance of community partnerships, and innovative solutions to chronic challenges like truancy. Derek shares insights on leadership, the need for equity-centered school improvement, and practical strategies for principals to become transformative leaders.Hope coming out of the pandemicHoped that role that schools play would be appreciated. Schools have also made families feel less invited. Think about how to expand schools beyond their four wallsPartner with ParentsSchools aren’t prepared for Truancy epidemic - See Jethro’s TedX Talk about AbsenteeismPartnered with a local laundromat to put laundry in the schoolListen to the broader community. 3 reasons why adults don’t do what they should to help kids learn. Skills, will, plan.How to be a transformative principal? Manage your time more strategically. 1. Plan space between things 2. Schedule blocks of time in classroomsAbout Derek MitchellDerek Mitchell has been the CEO of Partners in School Innovation since 2009. Under Derek’s leadership of “Partners,” the organization has adapted to a dynamic educational landscape and grown to address an expanding need for equity-centered school improvement. Partners has joined with national funders such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, and the W. Clement & Jessie V. Stone Foundation to help educators build their capacity to serve some of the most challenged communities in the United States. Along the way, Dr. Mitchell has published reflections about Partners’ work in a variety of journals and blogs such as Phi Delta Kappan, EdSource, and Leadership magazine.In addition, Derek has recently been a fellow of The Gratitude Network and is currently a fellow of the Pahara Institute. He is also a member of the board of trustees for the California Academy of Sciences and for Pitzer College.Before coming to Partners, he earned a Ph.D. in educational psychology from UCLA; served as the director of technology and student achievement for the Oakland Unified School District in California; supported district-wide reform across the country for the Stupski Foundation; and was the executive director of the Opportunity Zone in Prince George’s County in Maryland. Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, host Jethro Jones discusses the crucial topic of AI and cybersecurity with Sam Bourgeois, an experienced IT director with a background in private industry and education. The conversation covers the importance of AI standards, the ethical implications of AI use, and the need for cybersecurity awareness among young people. Sam introduces 'Make It Secure Academy,' an innovative platform aimed at educating students about cybersecurity through interactive and engaging methods. The episode emphasizes the critical need to incorporate these lessons into everyday education to protect children in an increasingly digital world.Cybertraps PodcastAI Standards, AI Ethics, and Cybersecurity for kids.Working for a company that has an International footprint How to support someone who wants to bring on tools. Guardrails, not blockade. NISTRegulations around AIIs it worthwhile for kids to learn standards about AI usage. A student should know and recognize there are correct and incorrect ways to use AI. With great power comes great responsibility. MakeITsecure academyOnce data is exposed, they’re being watched and tracked all the timeKids will turn 18 with data exposed for years. How to teach kids without it being a gotcha! On a mission to protect every kid, one kid at a time. About Sam BourgeoisSam is the leader of a large managed services provider in the US serving global customers ranging from defense to education. He is the Sr. Dir. of Technology and Cybersecurity and leads the visioning of new products and services, oversees DEVSECOPs teams and serves as the cyber leader of the organization and many clients. He has deep telecommunication, IT, education, and corporate training industry experiences, and is passionate about serving those in need whether it’s in Rotary or non-profit board membership. Socials: @makeitsecurellc = insta, Fbhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/102108099Webpresence LLC - https://www.makeitsecurellc.com/home501c3 - https://www.make-it-secure.org/LMS - https://makeitsecure.academy/Intro to the LMS and Courses - https://youtu.be/xEyFXhe6Z3E  Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Jethro Jones talks with Dr. Jayne Lammers, a dissertation coach, about the importance of having systems and support to complete a dissertation. They discuss Dr. Lammers' experience, the role of a dissertation coach, and various strategies such as weekly accountability check-ins, peer exchanges, and 'shut up and write' sessions to help doctoral students succeed.Join DAGGER 🗡️ Doc Student SupportJayne’s interview on TP Episode 592 Kept her doctoral students after leaving the university. Successful because of systems. Signing up for systems that have come into How having a coach helps the chair and the studentPseudo-outside the universityPlace of support where they can be real. Seems like professors don’t care. Guides transition from student to scholarEmotional aspect to writing and investing in this project.Coach can help you navigate all those different factors. Weekly Accountability Group Meetings: the momentum generated by showing upShut Up and Write Sessions: the power of social writing sessions (or isolated writing)Setting Goals: making them attainable and humane, not just SMART (and why that matters for doc students, especially)Peer Exchanges: why it’s worth your time to read your peers’ work, even when you feel you have limited time for your ownAbout Jayne LammersDr. Jayne C. Lammers is a former tenured professor and Fulbright U.S. Scholar who has been supporting doctoral students since 2010. She now works as the Director of Learning Design for Edmentum, a K-12 digital learning and assessment provider, but remains connected to academia as a dissertation coach for the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education. Through Dr. Jayne Consulting Services, she helps researchers thrive by creating systems of accountability that turn the overwhelm into steady progress, and even joy! She’s been developing these systems through her work with academic writers at top U.S. institutions and in Indonesia. Whether someone is a doctoral student navigating the dissertation process or a faculty member stretched too thin, Jayne is there to help. Her approach, affectionately called “lovin’ and shovin’” by a recent student participant, blends compassionate accountability with a no-shame attitude. She meets people where they are and then encourages them to make meaningful progress on their writing, research, goals, and future.At the heart of everything she does is a commitment to making academia a more humane and rewarding experience for everyone involved.Those curious about her scholarship can check it out on ORCiD or Google Scholar.Those interested in what she’s up to professionally can follow her on LinkedIn. Her Curriculum Vitae, current as of May 2025, is also available. Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Jethro Jones and Damon Hargraves discuss innovative software solutions tailored for educational purposes. They share insights on the impact of AI and other emerging technologies on school environments, the conception of customized applications, and the future of software development in schools. Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Jethro Jones hosts Erin Bailey, Vice President of Literacy Programs and Research at Reading is Fundamental, to discuss the importance of reading in children's development. They delve into how reading fosters connections, the impact of screen time on reading habits, and effective strategies for schools and families to encourage reading. The episode also touches on the role of AI in literacy and mental health education through books.How To Help Families Find Joy In Reading with Dr. Erin Bailey Transformative Principal 586Focused on language components - material and affective component. Sitting side-by-side and face-to-face with a child.When kids want to read the books a hundred times in a row! Gen Z Parents Not Reading to their KidsQuick attention. Training your brain to only be able to pay attentionMissing out on opportunities to bond with children when reading. Reading can take you places, and you can escape.Family education Meet families where they are at. Schools cutting back on read-aloud time. Accessible guides.Teaching in Hong KongCognitive Debt ResearchHow to Train Your Amygdala Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, host Jethro Jones interviews Barb Solish, the National Director of Innovation for the National Alliance on Mental Illness. They discuss the importance of mental health awareness, early intervention, and the impact of literacy in shaping children's futures. Barb shares insights into the Macy's and NAMI partnership, the importance of building strong connections through reading and other activities, and the crucial role of community support in mental health care.For the interview between Barb and Erin, go here: https://transformativeprincipal.orgHalf of all mental health issues start before 14. Only half of those who need it are getting the help they need. Distinct warning signs. https://nami.org/signsLooking for changes. Call a pediatrician Conversation startersFind a support groupWhen you are not alone, you have hope.Cathleen Beachboard on Resilient Schools talking about hope.Trauma Awareness TrainingKids are a lot stronger than we give them credit for. Outcomes for students - what are the outcomes we want. Mental health education is health education.Focus on connection not perfection. Barb Solish: National Alliance on Mental illnessBarb Solish is NAMI’s National Director of Innovation. She is passionate about mental health awareness, education, and advocacy, especially after the loss of a friend to suicide. Barb’s lived experience developing a mental health condition as a young person also motivates her work improving outcomes for young people with mental health concerns.In her time at NAMI, Barb has led NAMI’s Youth and Young Adult Initiatives team, developing new resources for kids, teens, young adults, educators, and caregivers. She also led the creation of new initiatives, including the virtual version of the NAMI Ending the Silence presentation program for middle and high school students and NAMI Next Gen, NAMI’s young adult advisory group. In addition to youth and young adult work, Barb oversees NAMI’s Workplace Mental Health Initiatives, including NAMI StigmaFree Workplace. Barb believes strongly that not only is creating a mentally healthy workplace the right thing to do, it’s an economic imperative. Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Jethro Jones introduces a special conversation between Dr. Erin Bailey, Vice President of Literacy Programs and Research at Reading is Fundamental, and Barb Solish, the NAMI National Director of Innovation. They discuss the partnership between Reading is Fundamental (RIF) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), supported by Macy's, to provide books and mental health resources to children nationwide. The conversation dives into the youth mental health crisis, the literacy crisis, and how these two organizations are working together to support children's mental and emotional well-being through literacy and other resources.NAMI and RIF joining together with the support of Macy’sBeing next to someone is powerfulName it to tame it. Identifying emotions for kids is powerfulLiteracy for skills in both areas. The power of a mother reading aloud to her children. NICU mothers reading aloud to kids every day lowered rates of post-partum depression and stress. Routine and trust are built together. Early intervention The Presence and the connection is what really matters. Barb Solish: Link to headshot - National Alliance on Mental illnessBarb Solish is NAMI’s National Director of Innovation. She is passionate about mental health awareness, education, and advocacy, especially after the loss of a friend to suicide. Barb’s lived experience developing a mental health condition as a young person also motivates her work improving outcomes for young people with mental health concerns.In her time at NAMI, Barb has led NAMI’s Youth and Young Adult Initiatives team, developing new resources for kids, teens, young adults, educators, and caregivers. She also led the creation of new initiatives, including the virtual version of the NAMI Ending the Silence presentation program for middle and high school students and NAMI Next Gen, NAMI’s young adult advisory group. In addition to youth and young adult work, Barb oversees NAMI’s Workplace Mental Health Initiatives, including NAMI StigmaFree Workplace. Barb believes strongly that not only is creating a mentally healthy workplace the right thing to do, it’s an economic imperative.Erin Bailey, Vice President, Literacy Programs & Research, Reading Is FundamentalErin Bailey, Ed.D., joined Reading Is Fundamental in 2021 and currently serves as the Vice President of Literacy Programs and Research. Dr. Bailey brings deep curriculum and instructional expertise to her position, which includes serving as the subject matter expert and developing, curating, and managing content and professional learning for educators and families on literacy.She has played a pivotal role in shaping high-quality, research-based content that supports Pre-K through Middle School students nationwide. With a strong command of literacy best practices, she leads cross-functional efforts to ensure RIF’s resources spark reading joy while aligning with effective instructional strategies. Passionate about empowering educators, Dr. Bailey has spearheaded RIF’s professional development initiatives—designing and delivering hands-on, relevant learning experiences that build lasting capacity and support classroom success.Dr. Bailey has been an educator in U.S. and international classrooms. Her teaching experience spans from PreK-8 including roles as a classroom teacher, literacy specialist, English language learning specialist, and university instructor. Her interests include professional learning for teachers on family and community engagement, instructional strategies for multilingual learners, and literacy instruction. She is interested in the ways that partnering with families and communities, particularly for children from historically marginalized communities, can transform literacy instruction. Additionally, she designs curriculum and professional development for utilizing play-based learning to teach language and literacy to young children.Dr. Bailey has a robust and interdisciplinary research repertoire including learning through informal spaces such as public gardens, art museums, and social movements. She takes up art processes such as film, photography, and sound mixing to expand approaches to qualitative inquiry. She has presented her work at several major conferences including the American Education Research Association (AERA) and the World Organization for Early Childhood Education (OMEP) and has published in academic journals including Qualitative Inquiry, Journal of Early Childhood Literacy, and Journal of Literacy Research. Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Jethro Jones speaks with Bobby Canosa-Carr, a leadership coach, author, and former principal. They discuss various educational topics, including the power dynamics in schools, the importance of permission-seeking culture, and strategies for creating dialogue and addressing systemic issues.Why do we even ask to go to the bathroom? American schools have built a culture of permission seekingCharter schools are not the magic bullet! Is that what we’re here for? What are we here in school for? If you really audit what schools do, it doesn’t align to what we say it does.The system trains us to point fingers at each other. Create more opportunities for dialog. Can you prove it will improve test scores? How to be a transformative principal? Start a conversation with the person who is the most at odds with you. About Bobby Canosa-CarrBobby Canosa-Carr is a leadership coach, an author, a mindfulness teacher, a former teacher and principal, and a senior public education executive. He is the founder/CEO of Enlighten Leadership Coaching and the Senior Managing Director of Schools at Equitas Academy Charter Schools.As a school principal, Bobby led the turnaround of a large public high school in Los Angeles and subsequently founded a charter school in his hometown of San Pedro, California. He is a pioneer in personalized & project-based learning, restorative practices, and mentoring in schools. Bobby recently published his first book, Can I Go to the Bathroom? and Other Asinine Questions We Ask in School. It's an exploration of the dysfunctional power dynamics that leave almost everyone feeling disempowered in American schools.Bobby is most fulfilled when doing anything that brings him to the present moment and reminds him to breathe on purpose. You might find him climbing boulders in Joshua Tree, swimming in the waves of the Pacific Ocean, or riding his Harley Davidson up a winding coastal road. Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode,  Jethro Jones interviews Samantha Hamilton, an award-winning principal, national education consultant, speaker, and author. Samantha shares insights from her career, discusses her book 'Brave On Purpose,' and emphasizes the importance of courageous, empathetic leadership in education. The episode also touches upon the challenges of leadership, the role of faith in leadership, and tips for preventing burnout among educators.Brave on Purpose means choosing courageIntentional leadership when it’s easier to not have that. LISA Academy - be seenLeaders can’t rely on titles to have trust.Help people feel seen, safe, and valued.Don’t have access to what happens day-to-day in schoolsLeadership on paper is different than leadership in real life.Can’t assume we know what happened right before.People first paper second. More info from Erika Garcia-NilesPower of delegation & perfectionism - sign up for Jethro’s email list.Interweaving faith into leadership.How to help principals who feel burnt out or stuck.What defines success today? How to be a transformative principal? Give yourself permission to be human, pick one thing that you want to get better at tomorrow. Progress over perfection. About Samantha HamiltonSamantha Hamilton (BarefootPrincipal.com) is an award-winning school principal, national education consultant, speaker, and author of non-fiction leadership books that inspire courage, connection, and culture change. With over two decades of experience in early childhood education and K-12 school leadership, she’s known for transforming vision into action and heart into strategy.Born in Joplin, Missouri to two lifelong educators, Samantha began “teaching” both real and imaginary students by the age of five. That early calling grew into a career defined by faith, humor, and an unshakable belief that relationships—not rigid rules—are the foundation of lasting success. Whether she's leading a school community, coaching new leaders, or navigating chaos with compassion, Samantha brings grit, grace, and just the right amount of sparkle to shift the atmosphere.She has served in both public and charter schools, taught multiple grade levels, and led schools through tornado recovery, staffing crises, major cultural transformations, and systemwide change initiatives. Her leadership philosophy is simple: people first, always. Her impact? Anything but simple.Beyond the school walls, Samantha mentors aspiring leaders, develops curriculum, and trains educators nationwide on topics such as leadership resilience, school culture transformation, data-driven decision-making, and sustainable servant leadership. She is a doctoral candidate in Organizational Leadership and a proud wife, mom of three, and Christmas enthusiast who blends fun and focus into everything she leads.Her debut book, Brave on Purpose: How Courage, Culture, and Connection Create Lasting Impact, is a love letter to educators and leaders navigating the real trenches of change. It invites readers to lead with clarity, courage, heart, and a little sparkle. Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Dr. Sarah Ranney shares her journey from instructional coach to executive director of Lafayette Preparatory Academy. She and Jethro dive into the powerful—and sometimes delicate—dynamics of instructional coaches evaluating teachers. Dr. Ranney discusses how LPA has built a culture of continuous improvement, the role of academic rigor, and how leadership vision shapes school success.Lafayette Preparatory Academy, started k-2 and added a grade each year, K-8The reason schools exist is to educate kids. Strong academic program Inner core of St. Louis CityDiverse by design - socio-economic status and race and religious diversityWhat three words would you use to define our school? It really does take a village to raise a childParent experienceIntake conference - teachers asking parents to build relationshipsFamilies are our students’ first teachers. Teachers are spending many hours with our kids. Students grew academically over the pandemic because of the relationships with parents. Designing school. Data personalizes and depersonalizes all at the same timeTeaching is a very personal project. If you think you don’t have anywhere to grow, you probably should get out of the field you’re in. Why their coaches do evaluations instead of the principal.How to be a transformative principal? Ask for feedback and be willing to be vulnerable to respond to that feedback.About Dr. Sarah Ranney  Dr. Sarah Ranney has been with Lafayette Preparatory Academy (LPA) since 2014 and is a proud parent to an LPA 8th grader. She believes that every child has an inalienable right to attain an excellent education no matter their economic status, residential location, or background. Sarah joined LPA after four years working as an instructional coach with Teach For America where she focused on developing Early Childhood and Elementary teachers across the metropolitan area. She supported more than 300 teachers in more than 40 schools during her tenure there. Prior to Teach For America, Sarah spent several years in the classroom in the St. Louis Public Schools and an Independent, Private School. Sarah has an Ed.D in School Administration as well as an Education Specialist and Masters in School Administration from the University of Missouri- St. Louis, a Master of Arts in Teaching from Webster University, a Bachelor of Arts in Media Relations and a Bachelor of Arts in Women's and Gender Studies from the University of Missouri-Columbia. She is a certified Teacher, Principal, and Superintendent. Sarah is also a Doula and Certified Lactation Counselor. She is also an Assistant Scoutmaster with Troop 362 and loves helping youth develop leadership skills in the great outdoors. When not at school, you might find her playing strategic games like War Chest or Settlers of Catan or hanging out in Tower Grove park with her family. Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Jethro Jones and guest Danny Bauer delve into the evolution of their collaboration on the 'Reject the Premise' book idea, discussing its transformation into a podcast series and the subsequent book writing process. They share valuable leadership lessons on knowing when to push forward and when to step back, highlight the drawbacks of feedback sandwiches, and emphasize the importance of not writing off people prematurely. They reject traditional premises such as 'operate in isolation,' advocating for a supportive network, and 'give feedback sandwiches,' encouraging honest, inquisitive communication. A poignant discussion on finding the right place for staff members underlines the episode's focus on empathetic and effective leadership.00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome00:49 The Book That Almost Wasn't01:07 Resurrecting the Idea as a Podcast02:08 Leadership Lessons from Letting Go03:06 The Importance of Being in Flow04:05 If You Don't Like Someone, Move Them Out10:43 The Custodian Story14:38 Feedback Sandwiches Don't Work19:29 Effective Feedback Strategies20:18 Challenging and Supporting Superstars22:12 The Importance of a Support Network25:27 Personal Experiences and Insights34:18 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Jethro D. Jones welcomes back Craig Randall to discuss the evolution of trust-based observations and its impact on improving teaching and learning. Craig shares insights from his podcast '20 Minutes of Teaching Brilliance (On the Road with Trust-Based Observations)' and delves into the challenges and strategies for writing and implementing effective educational practices.Nerding about the writing process. When the idea comes, you’ve got to take it. How Trust-Based Observations has evolved. You learn something new every single week. Coaching model vs. Trust-Based ObservationsWe have blind spots, if we leave it to that model, we may not have the solution they need. Cumulatively add the activities to the lesson to show the most learning. Intensive training, really goes deep. Don’t offer suggestions until the fourth visit because we haven’t built enough trust. Asking permission to offer a suggestion. Observation form available on the web site. 9 areas of pedagogy hasn’t changed. Relational trust hasn’t changed. TBO is collective teacher efficacy in actionHow we lower vulnerability to get people to take risks is by building trust. Craig’s podcast - 20 Minutes of Teaching Brilliance (On the Road with Trust-Based Observations)Craig was last on my podcast in 2021! Here’s his podcast episode. And someone even did a dissertation on TBO.About Craig RandallCraig Randall is developing relational trust between principals and teachers, leading to risk-taking and growth. Author of Trust-Based ObservationsTrust-Based Observations, a book about a transformative method of doing teacher observations. In a nutshell the book and model are designed to help show administrators how to build trusting differentiated relationships with each of their teachers such that teachers are willing to work through uncomfortable feelings of vulnerability and embrace taking big risks to grow their practice. The model also directly connects the observation process to annual action research goals and schoolwide professional development through the creation of professional development communities tied directly to TBO areas of pedagogy. 

In this episode of Transformative Principal, Jethro Jones interviews Linda Berberich, a behavioral scientist, about her extensive experience in machine learning before it became a buzzword. They discuss the practical applications of artificial intelligence in education, the pros and cons of using technology like GPT models in learning environments, and the importance of integrating technology thoughtfully based on the specific needs and culture of a school.AI is such a buzzword but it’s really just machine learningBuilt many solutions to virtual learningWhat technology is really good at is computingCycle motor learning - good formToo much memorizing Far transfer vs. Near-transfer (Ruth Clark) and organic vs. mechanistic skillsStandardizable tasks are mechanistic. The way you perform is how you train. Complex and Simple tasks.Skewed responses. How to know when to use a computer (AI, Machine Learning) for learning. Attempts to make the machine more empatheticJethro’s example of writing using two different GPTs to writeNarrow the field and expand the field. Grades have a massive impact on peoples’ lives, so we can’t ditch that.Ideas around what school looks like. Use the time for kids to be together pro-socially. Generative InstructionTeachers know this stuff! Using Technology to get kids interested in Don’t be afraid of technology or of letting kids lead. About Linda Berberich, PhD.Behavioral scientist specializing in innovative, impactful, and immersive learning and intelligent, intuitive technology product design. Extensive background in data analysis, technical training, behavior analysis, learning science, neuroscience, behavior-based performance improvement, and sport psychology/performance enhancement.Passionate lifelong learner who is constantly up-skilling, most recently in the areas of:solopreneurship, technology-based networking, writing business cases for corporate-wide initiatives, design thinking, agile/scrum methodology, data science, deep learning, machine learning, and other areas of artificial intelligence, particularly as they intersect with human learning and performance.Follow her newsletter at Linda Be Learning. Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Jethro Jones discusses the nuances of education journalism with Charles Sosnik. Together, they explore the differences between news reporting and education journalism, the impact of political agendas on education, the role of blogs and podcasts in the industry, and the importance of including diverse voices in education media. They also delve into the responsibilities of parents versus educators, the necessity to inspire a love for learning, and how to effectively share wisdom and experiences through various media platforms.Education journalism is about talking about big ideasIt’s about voices, but so manyDistraction vs. actually educating our kidsDrop your kids off and 13 years later you Education is the responsibility of the parents, but the state stepsOur kids aren’t digging what we’re giving them. Why people are in education. Teaching vs. learningRelevance. We have the opportunity to change the world, You have a responsibility to get your voice out there. Publications to be a part of: https://thelearningcounsel.com/https://et-mag.com/https://edu-ai.org/https://www.ednewsdaily.com/ Southeast education network magazineYou can make a big impactYour voice matters, get it out there. About Charles SosnikCharles Sosnik is a writer in American Education with 40 years in media. He is the Editor and Publisher for education publications including ET Magazine and Educate AI Magazine, and an Editor at Learning Counsel. Additionally, he serves as a ghost writer for some of America’s top voices (but that’s a secret, can’t tell you who!)  and sits on the Board of the (soon to be) new Education Media Association. Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, host Jethro Jones welcomes Shenita Perry, an assistant principal from Montgomery Public Schools, Alabama. They discuss the unique challenges of educating gifted students, Shenita's experience with the SchoolX book study, and valuable insights on empathy and perspective in education. Shenita also shares practical advice for transformative leadership.Magnet Middle School Academically and artistically gifted childrenAwkwardness of being middle schoolers and gifted can be challengingPrincipal Matters ListenersThe School Experience vs the Traditional ExperienceDesign thinking processWhat does the school look like through the other peoples’ viewpoints. Treating kids as if they’re not human. We forget the humanity of every other part. Day to day work - Looking at things through other peoples’ eye. How to be a transformative principal? Have a listening ear and an open eye to see from different perspectives. Listen to understand instead of listening to respond. Join the book study here. Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode of Transformative Principal, host Jethro Jones welcomes Dr. Melinda Bier, the Theresa M. Fisher Endowed Professor for citizenship education at the University of Missouri St. Louis. They discuss the character education program, the impact of a national cohort, and faculty changes during the pandemic. They also delve into the design of the new cohort at UMSL, the importance of practical learning, and the integration of character education and social emotional learning into school leadership.Having a national cohort, online only programReally interesting what people learned from each otherThe design of the programAdaptive to the needs of studentsUrban university with a historyLoss of faculty membersModeling is an important part of our theoretical basisNext cohort - character development, social-emotional learning, and leadershipFaculty team to walk through this with people. Who You are is More Important with Tom Hoerr Transformative Principal 224Formative Five with Tom Hoerr Transformative Principal 225Chief Empathy Officer with Dr. Tom Hoerr Transformative Principal 495Character Education is a focus on the whole personAdults need to model the behaviors they want to see in the kids. Kids need opportunities to experience all the virtues. Use your power for the common good. Kids get gains in academics when you start with character. Schools have changed a lot over the last few years. Dissertation in Practice is a different kind of dissertationRetrospective pretest. About Mindy BierMindy Bier is currently the Teresa M. Fischer Endowed Professor for Citizenship Education at University of Missouri, St. Louis. Mindy’s expertise spans the fields of Character Education, teacher preparation and professional development, and the design and use of instructional technology for enhanced teaching and learning. She has extensive experience in the adoption of K-12 educational innovations, providing and managing professional development for geographically and culturally diverse teachers, and in the philanthropic sector. Mindy is the principal investigator for a series of cross-disciplinary service learning projects that address the social determinants of health disparities called Youth Empowerment in Action (YEA!) Join the Transformative Mastermind Today and work on your school, not just in it. Apply today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.