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In this inspiring episode, NAESP President April D. Knight joins Darrin to explore what leadership looks like when it stays grounded in relationships, service, and intentional support for school leaders. April shares the story of her 34-year career, her leadership journey through Columbus City Schools, and how her deep commitment to equity and connection led her to the NAESP presidency.

Together, they dig into three major initiatives shaping NAESP’s future:

• The groundbreaking NAESP–AMLE partnership, focused on elevating support for middle-level leaders.
• The National School Leaders Conference, including new strands for early childhood, middle school, and secondary success.
• The National Gold Star School Program, NAESP’s bold new recognition initiative honoring schools for culture, systems, and people—not just test scores.

April also shares timeless advice for early career principals, discusses the evolving nature of school leadership, and reflects on what it means to “lean into leadership” during times of change.

Key Topics Covered

• April Knight’s leadership journey from classroom teacher to NAESP President
• The importance of relationships and trust-building in early leadership
• How NAESP is expanding support for middle-level leaders
• Behind the scenes of the new NAESP–AMLE partnership
• What leaders can expect from the 2025 National School Leaders Conference in Orlando
• Details and criteria for NAESP’s new National Gold Star School Program
• Advice for aspiring and first-year administrators
• How April is “leaning into leadership” right now

About Today’s Guest – April D. Knight

With 34 years in education and over two decades as a principal, April Knight is a nationally respected advocate for students, teachers, and school leaders. She serves as the 2025–2026 President of NAESP and leads Avondale Elementary in Columbus City Schools, Ohio’s largest district. Her work focuses on academic excellence, equity, mentoring future school leaders, and advancing the principalship nationwide.

Links & Resources Mentioned

• NAESP Website: https://www.naesp.org
• National School Leaders Conference Information & Proposal Submission
• National Gold Star School Program (application open through Jan. 31)
• AMLE Website: https://www.amle.org
• Connect with April:
• Email: aknight@naesp.org
• X (Twitter): @AKnightApril