By Maya Brown, Literacy Content Development Manager at the UF Lastinger Center New Worlds Reading[1] is Florida’s free program that mails eligible VPK - 5th graders 9 free books with reading activities each school year to help boost their literacy skills. We often get asked questions... Continue Reading
By Jennifer Abrams Hard conversations are an inherent part of school leadership. More often than not, as a principal or an assistant principal, you will engage in hard conversations, and you will need to do so in productive ways. Speaking with clarity and courage and addressing difficult... Continue Reading
By John C. Maxwell Years ago, I became convinced of a truth that changed the trajectory of my life: Everything rises and falls on leadership. Great leadership has the power to improve an entire organization. And, unfortunately, bad leadership has the power to bring down an entire organization.... Continue Reading
By Andy Farley and Eric Hagen At Brookfield East High School in Brookfield, WI, we work tirelessly to develop a culture of gratitude and recognition as we live our mission: “Dedicated to Academic and Human Excellence.” Like most schools, we recognize students and their many... Continue Reading
By Brad Gustafson People have the capacity to navigate extraordinary change when the conditions are right. But the conditions aren’t always right in education, and leading in an environment of constant change can be exhausting. Some weeks, I consider it a success if I’m able to stay... Continue Reading
By Rivkie Berger, OTR/L Students with sensory challenges may struggle to focus, stay calm and engage in learning. They might appear hyperactive, disruptive or restless when they simply need to find the right sensory tool to self-regulate. Using sensory tools empowers students so that they are... Continue Reading
By Travis J. Peck Reflecting on my first principal position, I recall my mixed emotions. During this transitional time in my career, my emotions ranged from excitement to nervousness. I was excited about the opportunity to lead a school of educators and students, but I was also worried about... Continue Reading
Three Communication Practices That Successfully Transform School Culture, Regardless of Your Preference By Julia Ullmann, Ed.D. Assistant Principal, NeoCity Academy, Osceola County Let's be real—between budget meetings, discipline referrals, and the 127 unread emails in your inbox (all... Continue Reading
By Corey Peloquin Science education is at the heart of preparing Florida’s students for a competitive and innovative future. From elementary through high school, the foundation laid in our classrooms today shapes tomorrow’s thinkers, problem-solvers, and leaders. As K-12 school... Continue Reading
By John Gies As the frontline leaders in education, principals witness firsthand the challenges and opportunities that arise in classrooms every day. Yet, many of the issues we face—whether related to funding, curriculum mandates, or student support services—are shaped by decisions... Continue Reading
By Katy Kennedy “I don’t know” is a typical response from middle school students when they are asked: Where are your basketball shoes? Where did you put your math homework? Do you want to type or handwrite your assignment? How can I help right now? What did we go over... Continue Reading
I stopped at a gas station on my way from the Portland Oregon airport to the Portland coast recently. It was a typical rest stop like we’ve all seen and done a million times before. Gas up the car, get a drink, and use the restroom in a town we’ve never been to before. As I walked... Continue Reading
