Transformative Principal

In this episode of Transformative Principal, host Jethro Jones interviews Joel Lavin, an equity and inclusion administrator in Eugene, Oregon, with 25 years of experience in public education. Joel shares insights into his work supporting high school students with disabilities, focusing on transition services that help students move from school to adulthood. The conversation covers the importance of inclusive practices, unifying specialized programs, and providing real-life experiences through initiatives like CTE (Career Technical Education) and the Future Build program. Joel and Jethro discuss the challenges and successes of integrating students with disabilities into broader educational and extracurricular opportunities, including unified sports and robotics. The episode features personal stories that highlight the impact of these programs on student confidence, independence, and community involvement, emphasizing the value of collaboration among educators to create inclusive environments. LinkedLeaders: Yo

In this episode of Transformative Principal, host Jethro Jones interviews Tyler Lafferty, executive director and founder of Slingshot. Tyler shares his mission to help young people discover purposeful career paths by aligning their unique skills and personalities with fulfilling jobs. The conversation explores the IDEAS framework—Introspection, Design, Exploration, Adaptability, and Service—and offers practical advice for educators and students to dream big, build social capital, and find meaning in both work and community service.Purposeful directionDream big about their futureShow kids how to connect the dots Multi-faceted human being – many different paths that you could find fulfillment in.Be open to the winding path.No losing just learningTyler’s book, “Be More Like You”The path of least resistance.IDEAS FrameworkIntrospection, Design, Exploration, Adaptability, ServiceDreaming too small.Meaningful conversation about the work.Encouraging teachers to get out and find someone to speak in their classroom. B

In this episode of Transformative Principal, Brandon Cardet-Hernandez shares his journey from being a principal to advising the NYC Mayor, and now serving as President of Mrs. Wordsmith, a company dedicated to improving children's literacy through innovative tools like books and video games. Brandon dives into the urgent need for solutions in education, particularly addressing the missed "dosage" in phonemic awareness, phonics, and vocabulary instruction that many students experience. He explores the role of video games in education, emphasizing that while games can't replace teachers, they can enhance the learning process through engaging, spaced-repetition techniques, like the popular game Word Tag.Brandon discusses how joy and mastery of language can transform a student's understanding and emotional connection to words. He also highlights the challenges many students face in developing strong reading skills, especially in middle and high school, and how increasing practice time is essential.Leaving the pri

Host Jethro D. Jones talks with teacher Hilda Guerrero about her "Peacefully Productive Kids" program, which helps students develop emotional regulation, empathy, and conflict resolution skills. Hilda shares practical strategies and resources she created after working with a challenging student, and discusses her mission to make social-emotional learning easy and accessible for teachers everywhere.Peacefully Productive Kids - SEL and personal development for kids. Started 3 years ago when she had a highly challenging student, elopement, emotional outbursts. Started to read books and did action research with that particular student. Creating and collecting resources. Videos and resources already available and creating as she went along. Stephen Guise Elastic HabitsCreated a chart and tracked behavior. Ridiculously simple goals. The more he succeeded the better he got at succeeding. What causes the elopement?Let him know he’s safe, consistent soft, gentle messagesWhen a child is in distress, they need to learn

Nearly a year ago, Dr. Kelly Hastings interviewed Jethro on this show to talk about Saboteurs. It’s high time we get her on the show to talk about her work. SCALE Framework:Set the vision and team with clarity and purposeCreate the script that drives aligned, actionable changeAct and communicate effectively with your entire communityLearn, listen, and linger to build momentum and avoid burnoutEmpower and elevate your team so the work lasts beyond one leader or school yearYou can’t always make a vision happen in a single year. Principals must set the vision, but they can’t do it alone. Smallest possible action, aligned with what we are already doingCommunicate with everyone about how they can support the initiative. The power of “Shadow a Student”Teaching teachers how to be leaders - so powerful. Power of Permission - How to change mindsets - Vertical DevelopmentHow to be a transformative principal? Listen to what your good teachers are saying. Dr. Kelly Hastings brings over 28 years of dedicated service to pu

Naphtali Hoff is an executive coach, organizational consultant, trainer, writer & speaker.How to come back from making a mistake.Think big picture.If you don’t create the right foundation, then you will spend far less time helping kids thanWhen elephants fight, it’s the grass that gets trampled. - Rick LavoieWhere you can support the visionEverything flows from the foundation.We make decisions based on the emotional connection.Trust shields you from other problems.How to be a transformative principal? Continue to invest in yourself. You can’t give what you don’t have.

In this episode, Jethro and Danny continue their "Reject the Premise" series, a collaborative book-writing and podcast project. They discuss challenging traditional assumptions in education, focusing on reimagining school leadership, student development, and the real purpose of education.Links to Parts 1-3:Reject the Premise 1: Podcasts LinkReject the Premise 2: Podcast LinkReject the Premise 3: Eric Chagla Episode LinkedLeaders: You need support. Get just-in-time mentoring at LinkedLeaders.comWe’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

In this episode of Transformative Principal, Jethro Jones welcomes three inspiring guests to discuss the origins and impact of the Test Kitchen Education Foundation in Fort Madison, Iowa. Brent Zirkel shares how the foundation was created to blend culinary arts with education, providing students with essential life and academic skills. Kumar Withanage, a renowned chef and passionate educator, recounts his journey from Sri Lanka to the U.S. and his motivation to give back to the community through after-school programs that teach both cooking and life lessons. Julian Pope, a former student and participant, describes how the Test Kitchen became a turning point in his life, offering mentorship, practical skills, and opportunities that helped him pursue higher education. The conversation highlights the power of mentorship, the importance of community, and the value of providing safe, supportive spaces for students to grow.How Test Kitchen Education Foundation came to be. How Julien got involved through the robotic

In this episode, Jethro interviews Derek "DC" Crager, a passionate advocate for making artificial intelligence accessible, especially for the neurodiverse community. DC shares his personal experiences as an autistic individual and discusses how AI can empower people with autism, ADHD, and dyslexia to enhance their skills and independence. The conversation explores the unique challenges neurodiverse individuals face, the importance of supportive AI interfaces, and how technology can provide cognitive equity and a patient, understanding companion. DC also explains his work with Practical AI and AI for Autistics, offering insights into building inclusive tools and communities that help neurodiverse people thrive in education and employment. The episode highlights the transformative potential of AI as both a mentor and a bridge for communication, learning, and self-advocacy.Neurodiverse vs. neurotypicalAI gives “us” someone to talk toVoice interface to be a patient anthropomorphic voiceSpeak with ourselves Those

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

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 t

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 w

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

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

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 gr

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

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

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

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 out

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 toge