Principals do not have an easy task when Superintendents or District Leaders just say “No”. Our podcast guest this week is Ralph Nigro, a retired principal and the former President of the Ontario Principals Council in Ontario, Canada. Ralph shares stories from his journey of navigating the challenges of tragedy in his school community and lhow to foster a culture of collaboration and empathy. This episode dives into the detrimental effects of hasty decisions, the importance of supportive relationships, and how to lead effectively in the face of adversity. Perfect for principals and their supervisors looking to inspire innovation and resilience in their school and district teams. Our conversation uncovers what it truly takes to succeed. From handling media pressure during a school crisis to navigating the demands of social media, Ralph provides actionable advice for today’s principals who are interested to learn how to create an environment that empowers risk-taking and build trust between principals, district leaders and their teams.

#SchoolLeadership,#Principal,,#leadership,#restorative practice,#tragicevents,#listening,#relationshipbuilding,#connection,#sustainability,#trauma, #traumainformed

In a world where educational pressures are mounting, how do principals ensure that students—and staff—feel seen and supported? This week’s podcast guest is Dr. Shannon Behan, Dr. Behan is the President of the British Columbia Principal Vice-Principal Association also known as the BCPVPA. The podcast looks at the principal’s evolving role in creating a culture of connection and care. Drawing on the concept of contextual literacy and Fullan’s “spirit work,” we discuss how focusing on human relationships can lay the foundation for both academic and emotional success. Listen now to learn how you can lead with heart and purpose in your school.

#SchoolLeadership,#Principal,,#leadership,#restorative practice, #listening,#relationshipbuilding,#connection,#mentalhealth

As a principal, you are more than a manager—you're a leader driving change in the face of challenges like dwindling autonomy and rising pressures. Dr. Shannon Behan is back as a guest on our podcast this week. Dr. Behan is the President of the British Columbia Principal Vice-Principal Association also known as the BCPVPA.The role of principals is evolving as leaders "from the middle." Navigating between district expectations and the unique needs of their school communities, principals are at the heart of systemic change. Dr. Behan also explores the "Equity Theory of Change" and how understanding our history and community relationships can transform schools. Principals looking for strategies to strengthen their leadership and foster equity in their school should give this a listen.

#SchoolLeadership,#Principal,,#leadership,#restorative practice, #listening,#relationshipbuilding,#connection,#mentalhealth,#equity,#Changetheory,

Principals didn’t choose their profession for the financial rewards but because they believe in the transformative power of education. Principals’ role is about more than just management—it's about building relationships and leading with love. Our guest is Niigaan Sinclair, an Anishinaabe writer, editor, activist and Head of the Department of Native Studies at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, Manitoba. With Niigaan we explore how leading with humility can help you overcome the challenges of school leadership. Principals can take small yet powerful actions, from fostering authentic relationships with Indigenous communities to overcoming the sense of overwhelm that comes with the job.

#reconciliation,#SchoolLeadership,#Principal,#leadership,#restorative practice,#relationships,#humility,#indigenous,#nativestudies,#relationshipbuilding,#inclusion,

Are traditional disciplinary methods in your school leading to real change? Restorative practice in schools is more than just addressing harm—it’s about understanding its roots and breaking cycles of violence. Our guest is Niigaan Sinclair, an Anishinaabe writer, editor, activist and Head of the Department of Native Studies at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, Manitoba. With Niigaan we explore how Indigenous justice principles offer a powerful framework for principals to address student conflicts and suspensions while building a stronger, more inclusive school community. Principals can use these time-tested approaches to create a more supportive environment, reduce suspensions, and empower both students and staff. Principals can address harm, and build lasting relationships with students through culturally responsive practices that lead to real change.

#reconciliation,#SchoolLeadership,#Principal,#leadership,#restorative practice,3relationships,#suspension,#expulsion,#indigenous,#nativestudies,#relationshipbuilding,#inclusion,

Are territorial acknowledgements becoming mere formalities in your school? In this episode, our guest is Niigaan Sinclair, an Anishinaabe writer, editor, activist and Head of the Department of Native Studies at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Niigaan leads the conversation into how principals can transform these acknowledgements from empty gestures into meaningful practices that genuinely contribute to reconciliation. Indigenous education is not just a moral obligation but a crucial factor in employability of students today. Every student, regardless of career path, in Canada, will need to effectively engage with Indigenous communities. Principals can play a leading role in fostering this essential competency in today’s schools.

#acknowledgement, #land,#territory, #reconciliation,#employability,#SchoolLeadership,#Principal,#leadership,#restorative practice, #ally,#indigenous,#nativestudies,#relationshipbuilding,#inclusion, #systemicbarriers

As school leaders, principals hold the power to either reinforce the status quo or champion meaningful change in education. In this episode, our guest is Niigaan Sinclair, an Anishinaabe writer, editor, activist and Head of the Department of Native Studies at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Niigaan leads the conversation on how principals can be true advocates for Indigenous education and reconciliation. There are real challenges, tough decisions, and bold moves principals must make to support reconciliation efforts, even when it means facing resistance or risking their own career progression.Stepping beyond symbolic gestures with even the smallest act can lead to transformative actions that challenge systemic barriers, create inclusive environments, and make a lasting impact on students and communities alike. Part 1 of 4

#SchoolLeadership,#Principal,#leadership,#restorative practice, #ally,#indigenous,#nativestudies,#relationshipbuilding,#inclusion, #systemicbarriers

A critical issue facing our schools is how early literacy struggles can set the stage for poor attendance and long-term academic challenges. Our guest this week is Dallis Novelli , teacher and Education Officer, Literacy from Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) . We explore the story of a young student who, despite receiving help from multiple tutors, faced a daunting journey to close the gap in their reading skills. That was the root cause of their absenteeism. It’s often only when a child is visibly struggling that parents feel the urgency to act. Dallis explores some simple yet practical ways schools can engage parents, provide the right tools, and build a supportive community that encourages consistent attendance and learning.

#studentattendance, #absenteeism,#parents, #teachers, #relationshipbuilding, #restorativepractices, #readingskill, #parentteachercommunication#literacy, #earlyintervention