Principal Matters: The School Leader's Podcast with William D. Parker
Principal Matters: The School Leader's Podcast with William D. Parker
With William D. Parker and Friends
Episodes
PMP522: Lessons from Coaching High School with Tony Bornhorst
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before each week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: What do I do when I become aware of conversations in the teacher’s lounge – about my lack of support, for example – that filter their way back to my office? Listen in to hear their response! Meet Tony Bornhorst: A veteran educator, coach, and athletic administrator with over three decades of hands-on experience, Tony Bornhorst has dedicated his career to shaping high school athletic and academic communities across multiple distinct school districts. After earning his undergraduate degree from Ohio Wesleyan University and his Master’s degree from Miami University, Tony spent seven years teaching and coaching at Riverside-Brookfield High School in Illinois, followed by five years at Jackson High School in Ohio, before settling in Dublin Ohio as a teacher, coach, and assistant athletic director for the past 21 years. Over the course of his career, he has coached a wide array of sports—including basketball, cross country, football, and tennis—and has channeled that extensive sideline wisdom into his essential guide, Thinking About Coaching High School? Read This First. Using basketball as a medium, his book pulls back the curtain on the profession to offer prospective coaches a realistic, story-driven glimpse into the daily responsibilities and complex dynamics of education today. Lessons from Coaching High School: In this episode of Principal Matters Podcast, Jen Schwanke sits down with Tony Bornhorst to discuss his what lead him to write his book. He reflects on how coaching serves as a perfect microcosm of school administration, emphasizing that both roles require immense dedication, endless communication, and the courage to navigate difficult conversations. Whether managing playing-time complaints from parents or supporting a struggling program, Tony explains how setting boundaries with empathy builds foundational trust. He challenges school administrators to prioritize hiring coaches who are also full-time teachers in the building, noting the immeasurable impact a coach has when they are accessible to students throughout the instructional day. A Few Takeaways from the Episode: The Power of Parallel Leadership: Coaching and school administration are fundamentally parallel; a leader is only as good as their team, and maintaining the dignity of your staff or players is paramount. The Six Ps: Success in both the classroom and on the court relies on a core philosophy: proper, preparation, prevents, pathetically, poor, performance. Building-Based Coaching: Whenever possible, principals should hire coaches who also teach in the building. Having an educator-coach present during the school day allows for proactive mentoring and seamless support for student-athletes. Deflecting Blame, Sharing Credit: Exceptional leaders own the losses to protect their team from outside scrutiny, but step aside to give others full credit when celebrating a victory. The Impact of Affirmation: Small gestures from upper administration—like a supportive arm around the shoulder after a tough situation or an unannounced note of praise—can completely revitalize an educator’s morale. Defining Long-Term Success: The true reward of leadership is not found in the final score or a win-loss record, but in the lifelong relationships built with every student, parent, and player, long after they leave the school. Tony wraps up the episode with a powerful reminder for all school leaders, teachers, and coaches to find value in their daily grind and remember the profound weight of their purpose. For school leaders looking to support their athletic staff or looking for an impactful gift for their coaches, Tony’s book is a highly practical, story-driven resource. You can purchase your copy of Thinking About Coaching High School? Read This First on Amazon. Contact information: If you would like to contact Tony, you can email him at [email protected]. The post PMP522: Lessons from Coaching High School with Tony Bornhorst appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Let’s Proflect Together
A few weeks ago, Jen Schwanke and I talked about the term “proflection”. Proflection is a term, coined by Jen, that combines reflection and proactivity. It means reflecting on past experiences in order to make changes to future practices. This week, Jen and I spend some time proflecting about work we have done recently. Jen shares some lessons that she presented at a conference in Louisiana, where she talked about the history of public education and the challenges that school leaders face in today’s educational landscape. I proflect on some lessons that I have been learning in my work in leadership and coaching sessions. A theme that emerged during our time spent proflecting is that a lot of US school leaders are dealing with the same issues, no matter where they live. The solution to their problems are going to be different depending on the person and the setting in which they serve, but it can be helpful for school leaders to remember that they are not the only person dealing with their problems. As we wrap up the episode, we challenge listeners to spend time proflecting on whatever challenges they are facing this school year. Don’t miss the opportunity to grow from whatever you are experiencing today! Listen to our full conversation for some more great takeaways! And, as always, thank you for doing what matters! The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Let’s Proflect Together appeared first on Principal Matters.
Fill the Gap with Trust with Darren Melton – PMP521
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview Jen Schwanke and I take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: I’m a Secondary leader now tasked with coaching and supporting Elementary leaders. What advice do you have for me when I’m sometimes out of my comfort zone with their unique challenges? Listen in to hear our response! Meet Darren Melton: This week on Principal Matters Podcast, I sit down for a conversation with Darren Melton. Darren serves as Head of School at Lincoln Christian School in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he has led since 2023. A veteran educator, coach, and administrator with more than 30 years of experience, Darren is known for his relational leadership style, commitment to Christ-centered education, and practical wisdom in building healthy school culture. Prior to returning to Lincoln Christian, he served as Executive Director of Athletics for Broken Arrow Public Schools. Earlier in his career, he spent 17 years at Lincoln Christian as Head Football Coach and Athletic Director, leading the football program to a 142–38 record. Darren has also coached at Jenks Public Schools and Owasso Public Schools and has served on the board of directors for the OSSAA. He is passionate about leadership development, strong parent partnerships, and creating school environments built on trust, accountability, and care for students. Hiring People Who Truly Care About Kids: We begin by discussing one of Darren’s core beliefs about hiring and team development: “We don’t hire people who take things out on children.” Darren explains how difficult it can be to evaluate emotional maturity and relational health during the hiring process, but emphasizes the importance of surrounding students with people who genuinely love kids and want to build relationships with them. He reflects on the joy of seeing former students become strong leaders, parents, and educators themselves—and why character matters just as much as competency in school leadership. Filling the Gap with Trust, Not Suspicion: One of the central themes of the episode comes from a phrase Darren often uses: “Fill the gap with trust, not suspicion.” Darren shares how leadership teams can easily fall into unhealthy assumptions when communication is incomplete, but healthy organizations choose trust first. He explains how strong leadership cultures are built when teams feel safe enough to disagree, wrestle with hard conversations, and still walk away united around what is best for students and families. The conversation highlights the importance of humility, healthy conflict, and assuming positive intent. Building Parent Partnerships Before Conflict Happens: We also explore how school leaders can strengthen partnerships with parents before problems arise. Darren explains why schools must proactively communicate expectations “upstream” rather than waiting until conflict surfaces. From admissions conversations to parent meetings and athletic programs, he shares how clarity and consistency help families better navigate challenges when they come. Darren emphasizes that conflict is inevitable in schools, but trust and preparation can make those conversations healthier and more productive. “Kids Are the Managers of Information”: Another powerful part of the conversation centers on Darren’s statement that “kids are the managers of information.” He discusses how students naturally tell stories from their own perspective, and why parents and schools must work together carefully to pursue truth instead of reacting emotionally to incomplete information. Darren explains that discipline should ultimately be about restoration, growth, and helping students fail forward while still knowing they are loved and supported by the adults around them. Getting Upstream from Problems: We also discuss the importance of getting “as far upstream as possible” from problems. Darren shares practical examples from coaching, athletics, and school leadership about why leaders must clearly define expectations early and often. Whether it’s teaching procedures, communicating standards to parents, or preparing students for responsibility, he explains how intentional systems prevent unnecessary confusion and conflict later. Leadership, he argues, is often about managing small details with consistency and care. Leading with Humility and Support: As the episode closes, Darren reflects on the importance of surrounding yourself with great people and building cultures where staff members know their leaders genuinely have their backs. He speaks candidly about leadership challenges, reviewing systems honestly, learning from mistakes, and continuing to grow alongside trusted teams. Throughout the conversation, Darren models a leadership style grounded in humility, courage, accountability, and deep care for people. Now It’s Your Turn: As you reflect on this conversation, consider these questions for your own leadership: Where might you be filling gaps with suspicion instead of trust? Have you clearly defined expectations for your staff, students, and families “upstream” before conflict occurs? Do your team members genuinely know that you have their backs? How are you building a culture where healthy conflict and honest conversations can happen safely? In what ways could you better communicate care and support before addressing problems or performance? Thank you for doing what matters as you lead with practical wisdom and powerful reminders about trust-based leadership and healthy school culture! You can learn more about Lincoln Christian School at their website. Connect with Darren Melton via email at: [email protected]. The post Fill the Gap with Trust with Darren Melton – PMP521 appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – “The Dog I Wanted”
What happens when what you get isn’t what you wanted? This week on Monday Matters, Jen Schwanke shares a story from her newsletter, “The Dog I Wanted,” about losing a beloved dog and learning to love a new one who was nothing like what she expected. Jen and Will connect the story to a reality every school leader knows: the staff you lead, the students you serve, and the challenges you face won’t always match what you hoped or planned for. Listen in as they discuss how principals and teachers can let go of expectations, adjust to the people and circumstances in front of them, and lead well when reality looks different from the plan.
I Love This Place with Patrick Erwin – PMP520
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview, Jen Schwanke and I take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: What practical ways can I increase visibility even when I get trapped in my office so often? Listen in to hear our answer! Meet Patrick Erwin: Patrick M. Erwin is an educator, speaker, and leadership development specialist currently serving as Curriculum Director for Maxwell Leadership Foundation. With a background that blends music education, leadership, and school culture development, Patrick spent 17 years as the band director at Hillgrove High School, where he became known for building strong student leadership systems and positive team culture. He holds degrees from the University of Georgia, Auburn University, and Berry College. Patrick is the author of the new book I Love This Place, which explores how intentional leadership development can transform school culture. A nationally recognized presenter and leadership coach, Patrick continues to encourage educators through speaking, curriculum design, and practical strategies that help schools become places where both students and staff thrive. Amplifying School Culture Through Leadership: Patrick and I begin our conversation by exploring one of the central metaphors in Patrick’s new book, I Love This Place: the idea of constructive and destructive interference in music. Patrick explains how school teams either amplify one another or unintentionally cancel each other out depending on how aligned they are around vision, values, and expected behaviors. Just as musical harmony requires people playing together with intention, healthy school culture requires leaders who clearly communicate purpose and create alignment across teams. Leadership, Patrick argues, becomes more influential when others catch the vision and begin amplifying it alongside you. The Leadership Framework of HUSTLE: Patrick also shares the story behind the acronym HUSTLE, a leadership framework he developed while leading a large high school band program. Originally a reminder to move quickly and stay focused, HUSTLE eventually evolved into a practical leadership model centered on key character traits: humility, understanding, scholarship, trustworthiness, leadership attitude, and excellence. Patrick explains how those values became the foundation for developing student leaders who could influence culture, support one another, and help sustain a thriving organization far beyond what two directors alone could accomplish. Humility vs. Humiliation: One of the most powerful parts of the conversation centers on Patrick’s distinction between humility and humiliation. He explains that both words share the same root idea of being “grounded,” but humility is choosing to ground yourself honestly, while humiliation happens when the world grounds you instead. Patrick shares transparent stories from his early years as a teacher, including difficult moments where ego and pride created blind spots in his leadership. Those experiences ultimately helped him recognize that leadership is not about protecting personal reputation or legacy, but about serving others, learning continuously, and staying open to growth. Why Diversity Strengthens Teams: We also dive into Patrick’s reflections on diversity, inclusion, and team composition. Drawing from both research and his own classroom experience, he explains why diverse teams naturally create friction—but also produce stronger decisions, better creativity, and healthier outcomes over time. Patrick describes looking across his classroom and recognizing the incredible variety of personalities, experiences, and backgrounds represented within a single group of students. Rather than trying to erase differences, he argues that leaders must learn how to celebrate them, understand them, and help teams find common purpose while allowing different strengths to shine. Creating Rituals That Build Belonging: Patrick shares several practical strategies for building school culture, including one especially powerful ritual involving nuts, bolts, and paracord necklaces. At the end of each marching band season, students exchanged nuts and bolts with peers who had “helped them hold it together” throughout the year. The simple physical artifact became a lasting symbol of teamwork, support, and shared accomplishment. Patrick explains how attaching meaningful objects to emotional moments can help students remember that they belong to something bigger than themselves and that strong cultures are built through intentional connection and recognition. Building Places People Love: As the episode closes, Patrick reminds listeners that culture change takes time, often several years, but leadership development remains one of the most powerful drivers of long-term transformation. When schools intentionally invest in helping both adults and students grow as leaders, cultures become places where people feel connected, valued, and proud to belong. Eventually, students begin leaving campus and telling others, “I love this place.” And according to Patrick, that is when true culture change begins spreading into the broader community. Now It’s Your Turn: As you reflect on this conversation, consider these questions for your own leadership: Are your teams amplifying one another or unintentionally canceling one another out? How clearly have you communicated vision, values, and expectations within your organization? Are you choosing humility, or waiting for humiliation to teach the lesson instead? How are you helping diverse voices and strengths shine within your team? What rituals or traditions could help your students and staff feel more connected and valued? Where might you need to give someone permission to lead instead of trying to control every outcome? Learn more about I Love This Place and connect with Patrick at Patrick Erwin’s Website The post I Love This Place with Patrick Erwin – PMP520 appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Learning From Other Leaders
The school year is in full swing, and in addition to leaders I’ve been supporting in Grow Academies, Masterminds, and one-on-on coaching, I’ve also had the privilege of gathering with leaders in person.This week I wanted to share about an opportunity I had recently to join my friend Chris LeGrande, Executive Director of Oklahoma’s secondary principal and middle-level education associations (OASSP & OMLEA), as Principal Matters sponsored a dinner for principals from my area of the state. Several themes emerged from our time together. Here are three takeaways I thought may resonate with Principal Matters listeners and leaders: Belonging matters, not just for students, but for adults too. Beau Brannon, Union High School, Tulsa, Oklahoma, shared an amazing system he and his teachers have created to track every student to make sure he/she has a caring adult connected to their outcomes. Listen in as Jen and I talk about some of the takeaways he’s learned from that effort. PLCs, when done well, can be wonderful. When done without fidelity, they can become toxic. Timothy Ray, Assistant Superintendent, Catoosa Public Schools, Oklahoma, shared vulnerable lessons on how his leadership team has reorganized their own meetings around teaching and learning in order to dive deeper into the same tasks their helping teachers navigate. AI is still top of mind for many leaders who are trying to figure out how to protect against its misuse while also learning how to manage it as a tool, not an end in itself. Amy Sanders, Sapulpa Public Schools, Oklahoma, shared ways she and her teachers are tackling the hard questions of keeping students safe while also not being afraid of learning ways to utilize technology as an instrument in learning. As I like to say whenever I’m in a room with other leaders, “The smartest person in the room is the room.” Jen and I also discuss some upcoming leadership development opportunities for listeners. as well as give some shout-outs to the following: For Oklahoma leaders: Sign up for the OASSP/OMLEA Leadership & Learning Conference in Edmond, Oklahoma, October 28–29. Danny Steele and Phil Januszewski will be keynoting, along with other great leaders: https://www.ccosa.org/page/oasspomlea-leadership-and-learning-conference For all leaders: In September, I launched a virtual leadership series called Hats We Wear in partnership with First Educational Resources. We meet once a month. Even though we’ve already completed Session 1, it’s not too late to sign up for the remaining seven sessions. You’ll also receive the video from Session 1 so you can catch up in the meantime. Want to learn more about Hats We Wear – Virtual PD Series or sign up? Go here: https://resources.firsteducation-us.com/the-hats-we-wear-as-school-leaders-how-to-lead-serve-coach-and-communicate-with-confidence-full-year-series-landing-page Finally, Jen Schwanke will be at Louisiana’s principal’s association conference September 27-28, in Baton Rouge. If you’re there, make sure to tell her hello! Listen to the full episode to hear us reflect on these and other ideas that emerged in today’s Monday Matters! As always, thank you for doing what matters! ~ Will The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Learning From Other Leaders appeared first on Principal Matters.
Creating Belonging, Experience, and Memories with Robyn Hamasaki – PMP519
Meet Robyn Hamasaki: Robyn Hamasaki is Managing Director of Leadership Development for the National Principals Association, supporting efforts to develop PreK–12 school leaders, National Honor Society advisers, and student councils. Previously, she served as a teacher, assistant principal, and PreK–8 principal and helped establish the Principal Leadership Institute with the Colorado Department of Education. She also served as a Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. Born and raised in Hawaii, Robyn brings a deep commitment to servant leadership, coaching, belonging, relationships, and developing others. The Realities of School Leadership: Robyn begins by discussing one of the persistent realities of school leadership: it can be lonely. Whether leading a rural school, serving without an assistant principal, or simply carrying responsibilities others may not fully understand, school leaders need meaningful connections with people who understand the work. Robyn emphasizes the importance of networks, coaching relationships, and communities where leaders can safely talk through challenges, exchange ideas, and learn from one another. Belonging: A central theme of the conversation is belonging. Robyn explains that belonging matters not only for students, but also for teachers and school leaders. When people feel seen, heard, and connected, they become more committed and confident. The progression can be summarized in this way: Belonging → Attachment → Commitment → Transformation Five Guiding Principles: The conversation also explores lessons Robyn has learned from decades of leadership across education and the military. She identifies five principles that continue to guide her: I can’t do it alone. It’s not about being right and making someone else wrong. Include and empower others in leadership. Lead by example. Trust your gut and the experience behind it. 2027 National Principals Conference: Robyn also previews the February 2027 National Principals Conference in Tampa, built around the theme “One Conference, One Community.” She shares how the conference is being designed as a PreK–12 gathering focused not simply on professional development, but on creating meaningful experiences, relationships, and memories for school leaders. Conference strands will address teaching and learning; belonging and well-being; systems leadership; community voice and shared responsibility; and innovation, technology, and AI. Closing Comments: As the conversation closes, Robyn offers a reminder to school leaders to cherish the experience of leadership. The work is difficult, but leaders have an extraordinary opportunity every day to influence students, teachers, families, and communities. She encourages leaders to notice and celebrate what’s going well, reach out when the work becomes difficult, build a community of support, and remember the power of something as simple as noticing another person and saying hello. Staying Connected: To connect with Robyn Hamasaki, you can shoot her an email at: [email protected]. If you would like to learn more about the 2027 National Principals Conference, you can visit https://www.principals.org/ or see the information below! National Principals Conference 2027:February 6–9, 2027Tampa Convention Center | Tampa, Floridahttps://npc.principals.org/ Conference Registration & Rates:https://npc.principals.org/conference-rates-and-hotel/ The $699 early-bird registration rate is available through September 30, 2026. The post Creating Belonging, Experience, and Memories with Robyn Hamasaki – PMP519 appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Helping Teachers Avoid Burnout
This week on Monday Matters, Jen Schwanke and Will Parker discuss helping teachers avoid burnout. They start out the conversation by going over the differences between fatigue and burnout. Next, they spend some time talking about the benefits of proactively addressing burnout. Then, Will and Jen address the ways that school leaders can be proactive about teacher burnout. School leaders do have some responsibility to provide teachers with the tools they need to avoid burnout. Some ways that leaders can address the risk of burnout with teachers: Auditing the invisible load Learning to protect focus over volume Normalizing boundaries These three practices are a great way for leaders to open the discussion about burnout with their teachers and minimize the risk of teacher burnout down the line. The tools discussed in this week’s episode are also great ways for leaders to proactively address their own burnout. Will and Jen remind listeners that this job is a gift, but even gifts can be handled in a way that leads to burnout. Give yourself grace as you navigate the highly emotional and impactful work you do! Now It’s Your Turn: Think about a time that you felt exhausted or lonely in your work. What did you do to resolve that? Listen to the full conversation for more takeaways! If you would like to read Jen Schwanke’s full post about burnout, you can find it here. As always, thank you for doing what matters! The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Helping Teachers Avoid Burnout appeared first on Principal Matters.
Why Rural Schools Matter with Dr. Mara Tieken – PMP518
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before each week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: If we know best practices for strong student outcomes, why are so many schools not implementing them? Listen in to hear their response! Meet Mara Tieken: Mara Casey Tieken is a professor of education at Bates College in Lewiston, Maine. Her research focuses on educational equity for rural students and communities, including rural college access, rural school closure, and rural racial justice. She is the author of Educated Out: How Rural Students Navigate Elite Colleges—and What it Costs Them (University of Chicago Press, 2025), which was a 2025 American Educational Studies Association Critics’ Choice Book Award winner, and Why Rural Schools Matter (University of North Carolina Press, 2014). She is currently working on two projects: one focused on school closures in rural Black communities, and another studying rural-serving college access organizations. An award-winning teacher, Mara also designed and maintains a web-based toolkit for rural communities fighting school closure. She began her career in education as a third-grade teacher in rural Tennessee. “We give rural students an awful choice: college or community. We need to help them think about it as navigating different worlds rather than choosing one or the other.” Mara Tieken In this week’s episode, Dr. Jen Schwanke leads the conversation with author and researcher Dr. Mara Tieken to explore the unique challenges and strengths of rural education. Drawing from her experience teaching in rural Tennessee, Mara discusses the invisible barriers that rural students face when navigating higher education and the cultural cost of leaving home. The “College vs. Community” Paradox: Rural students often feel they must choose between pursuing a degree and maintaining their community identity. Educators must help students see college not as a replacement for their roots, but as a path to navigate multiple worlds. Recognizing Rural Assets: Rural students bring immense practical skills—like problem-solving, development of systems, and establishing routines—that are often undervalued in traditional academic settings. High school leaders can help students frame these life experiences as professional and intellectual strengths. The Myth of “Schooling” vs. “Schools”: There is a critical distinction between the business of education (test scores, mandates, data) and the sanctuary of a school (relationships, safety, and community). Successful principals “clear the clutter” so that the human element of the school remains intact. The True Cost of School Closures: Research shows that closing rural schools rarely saves the money promised by policymakers, yet it can flatten a community’s social and economic hub. Listening to student voices during these transitions is vital for mitigating trauma and preserving community hope. Normalizing Help-Seeking: Many first-generation rural students feel isolated in elite environments because they aren’t aware that certain resources (like emergency funds or tutoring) are meant for everyone. Administrators can bridge this gap by coaching students on how to advocate for themselves before they leave high school. Staying Connected: If you would like to learn more about Dr. Mara Tieken, you can visit her Linked In profile. The post Why Rural Schools Matter with Dr. Mara Tieken – PMP518 appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – A Tribute to Wendell Berry
Thinking about Wendell Berry’s Lessons for Schools When Andy Catlett, Wendell Berry’s character, a nine-year-old boy, visits his grandparents in 1943 over a Christmas vacation, he narrates the everyday happenings of a three-day journey. In one scene, he describes his Grandma’s button box. According to Andy, everyone had button boxes in every home he visited in those days — an assortment of glass, brass, or pearl buttons in different shapes and colors collected over the years from worn or discarded garments. These could be used to adorn new handmade clothes or to replace the lost buttons on other shirts or dresses. For Andy Catlett, playing in these boxes was like searching for hidden treasure. On this particular visit, however, Andy realized he no longer liked playing with buttons. In one sense, he was surprised at the realization. On the other hand, it was an acknowledgment that growing up means losing interest in some things and finding it in others. At the same time, Andy was realizing his interests were shifting to more adventuresome objects like rifles or mule teams. Even as he thought of this moment from childhood, the grief in his voice is evident as he says, “Maybe it was because I was now traveling away from home…by myself, but I knew suddenly and finally that my time of playing with buttons was past, just as one summer evening a year or two later, when I had found a perfect slingshot fork in the top of a tree, it came to me that I was no longer interested in slingshots, and I climbed down and left the perfect fork uncut” (Berry 457). In addition to Andy’s realization that button boxes and slingshots had lost their interest for him, he also realizes that small farming practices are going out of style as well, and this sad reality brings more serious consequences for entire communities. In fact, it is this loss that shows up most as one of the major themes for most of Wendell Berry’s characters. Almost all of Berry’s books contain themes that run up against the losses of treasures we so easily discard in the name of progress or modernization. From his nonfiction work, The Unsettling of America, to his poems of protest against practices like strip-mining, Berry’s works create a masterpiece of classics that help us relate to the everyday lives of his characters while yearning to redeem or repair the damage being done to their places and lives. Some of these losses, Berry acknowledges, are a natural part of living. Others, however, he shows, have been thrust upon us by outside forces bent on taking rather than giving. In his novel about Hannah Coulter, the grandmotherly narrator is able to show her patriotism while also pointedly convincing you of her hatred of war and violence. Jayber Crow, the town barber, in the book he narrates, helps readers grieve the loss of forests and natural field boundaries that protect farms from erosion and land devastation. As a Kentucky farmer, Berry lived near the very Kentucky River he describes in his fictional town of Port William. He also practiced what he preached. The Berry Foundation, established by his family, has helped small farmers reclaim more than 2,000 acres of Kentucky farmland to reestablish regenerative farming practices that are not dependent on industrialized farming methods. What do Wendell Berry’s stories have to do with school leadership? Growing a community of learners can very easily be compared to the growth of a healthy garden or farm. Both require healthy soil as the culture for healthy growth. Both require a commitment to long-term investment of careful husbandry versus quick fixes or trendy applications. Both require an investment in the people involved in the work as much as the work itself. As I’ve said in other posts, strong schools (or any community, for that matter) require commitments to three areas: strong shared beliefs, committed people of strong character, and sustainable, effective systems. Strong beliefs include the shared values that every child can learn and include an unbending commitment to doing whatever it takes to hold them to high expectations while providing high supports. Committed people have the hearts, not just the heads, for good teaching and learning. Character is more important than competency, and competency goes much further when carried by people with character. And without strong, sustainable systems or structures in place, you cannot achieve outcomes. You can attract good people with the right beliefs, and you can have the right collective outcomes in mind, but if the structures are weak, many of those same people will grow frustrated in the work and likely go somewhere else. It is the responsibility of leaders to set the tone for beliefs, to invest in supporting people, and to create the structures for sustainable outcomes. This school year, you will be venturing into the hard work of growing a healthy learning environment. Wendell Berry’s books remind me of the wonders and joys of being a child. They also remind me to honor the legacies of brave everyday men and women who are often our best examples of human flourishing. He calls his readers to think deeply about our relationships not just to people but also to places. He inspires us to improve or redeem the places and times we live in now, not just yearn for the past or look to the future. Wendell Berry’s ability to take simple, everyday occurrences and turn them into moments of reflection is a gift that keeps giving over and over again in his books and poems. These sentiments may be best captured in one of his most famous poems, “The Peace of Wild Things,” where he says: When despair for the world grows in meand I wake in the night at the least soundin fear of what my life and my children’s lives might be,I go and lie down where the wood drakerests in his beauty on the water, and the great heron feeds.I come into the peace of wild thingswho do not tax their lives with forethoughtof grief. I come into the presence of still water.And I feel above me the day-blind starswaiting with their light. For a timeI rest in the grace of the world, and am free. From The Selected Poems of Wendell Berry (Counterpoint, 1999) Now It’s Your Turn This school year, what commitments can you make to the beliefs, people, and systems that produce healthy learning outcomes? How can you stay timely in your understanding of your students and your practices while also holding to the timeless principles that have always made learning possible and will keep on working long after we’re gone? Other Source Cited:Berry, Wendell. Port William Novels & Stories: The Civil War to World War II. Edited by Jack Shoemaker, Library of America, 2018. Listen to Will & Jen discuss this tribute: The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – A Tribute to Wendell Berry appeared first on Principal Matters.
Teachers Are The Engine of School Success with Chien Nee – PMP 517
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: What is a story with a student, teacher or community member that reminded you why you are an educator? Listen in to hear their response! They also invite listeners […] The post Teachers Are The Engine of School Success with Chien Nee – PMP 517 appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Proflection
Happy Monday, Principal Matters Listeners! This week, Jen Schwanke and I are talking about a term called “proflection”. Coined by Jen, the term “proflection” means “proactive reflection”. Typically, reflection is a passive process, but proflection is intentionally taking charge of what you intend with your work and what you think about your work. In practice, […] The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Proflection appeared first on Principal Matters.
Rooted Leadership in a Mobile World with Dr. Tyler Watkins – PMP516
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before each week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke spend some time answering a listener question. This week’s question is: What advice would a teacher want to give to a new principal? Listen in to hear their response! Meet Tyler Watkins: Tyler Watkins, Ed.D., is the principal of Petal High […] The post Rooted Leadership in a Mobile World with Dr. Tyler Watkins – PMP516 appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – A Positive Start to the School Year
Welcome back to another episode of Monday Matters! This week, Jen Schwanke and I are discussing ways that school leaders can influence a positive start to the school year with a few shout-outs to school leaders we’ve admired. Below is a brief overview of our conversation: Now It’s Your Turn: What are some methods that […] The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – A Positive Start to the School Year appeared first on Principal Matters.
Collaborative Team Meetings: The Missing Piece with Kurtis Hewson – PMP515
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before each week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: I’m new to my role as a principal after years as an AP, and I’ve set my calendar for what I believe are the most important priorities. How do […] The post Collaborative Team Meetings: The Missing Piece with Kurtis Hewson – PMP515 appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Examine Your Influence
Welcome back to another episode of Monday Matters! This week, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke reflect with listeners about the importance of examining your influence. Your influence matters. Every day, the way you interact with students, teachers, colleagues, and families contributes to the emotional and cultural atmosphere around you. Are you helping others breathe healthy […] The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Examine Your Influence appeared first on Principal Matters.
Lessons from Beekeeping with Dr. Fernando Branch – PMP514
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: I’ve joined a new team and I want to build trust without coming across as too eager to be accepted, if that makes sense. What’s the balanced way to […] The post Lessons from Beekeeping with Dr. Fernando Branch – PMP514 appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Weather vs. Climate
This week on Monday Matters, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke discuss a recent newsletter from Jen, “Weather vs. Climate”. Jen starts out the episode recounting a time that she got caught in an unexpected storm while on a run. She then goes on to talk about how sometimes unexpected storms pop up in leadership. Leaders […] The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Weather vs. Climate appeared first on Principal Matters.
Cornerstones of Effective Schools with Dr. Darin Thompson – PMP513
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: I’m wanting to intentionally develop leaders on my team. Ideas or suggestions? Listen in to hear their repsonse! Meet Dr. Darin Thompson: Darin A. Thompson, PhD, is a veteran […] The post Cornerstones of Effective Schools with Dr. Darin Thompson – PMP513 appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – What Kind of Day is It?
This week on Monday Matters, Jen Schwanke and I take some time to talk about decision making. Inspired by a newsletter Jen recently wrote, we talk about how it’s important to make decisions on an average day, not a really good day or a really bad one. School leaders make a lot of decisions each […] The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – What Kind of Day is It? appeared first on Principal Matters.
PMP512: Forgiveness Looking Like Nachos with Dr. Will Darter
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: How can I set the tone on Day #1? Listen in to hear their response! Meet Will Darter: Dr. Will Darter is a rural school superintendent, author, presenter, speaker, […] The post PMP512: Forgiveness Looking Like Nachos with Dr. Will Darter appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – First Day of School Reminders
First Days of School Reminders William D. Parker This post is reprinted from an archived one we shared in 2019. Jenny is a returning student at her high school. She has a part-time job, which keeps her up late most nights. When she arrives late to school, she has already missed breakfast, and she’s tardy. […] The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – First Day of School Reminders appeared first on Principal Matters.
PMP511: Creating a Greenhouse Culture with Mike Hayes & Ashley Pacholewski
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview, Will Parker takes some time to ask Jen Schwanke about recording an audio book version of her book, You’re the Principal Now What? Here is a link to purchase the book! https://www.echopointbooks.com/cart/add/?id=45972673560749&quantity=1 Use code PRINCIPAL30 for a 30% discount! Follow this 30-second demo to learn how […] The post PMP511: Creating a Greenhouse Culture with Mike Hayes & Ashley Pacholewski appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Book Talk
In this week’s Monday Matters episode, Jen and I grabbed four of the last books we’ve read, and shared a few takeaways from each for listeners looking for good reads this summer: Will’s List: The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan KamaliA compelling novel tracing the history of Iran from the 1970s through the Revolution […] The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Book Talk appeared first on Principal Matters.
PMP510: Redefining Leadership Through Relational Intelligence with Brad Johnson and Rachel Edoho-Eket
A Quick Note to Listners: Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: I’m thinking about retiring in a year, but I want to do something part time. What are some options you’ve learned about consulting that I might be able to […] The post PMP510: Redefining Leadership Through Relational Intelligence with Brad Johnson and Rachel Edoho-Eket appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Lessons in Sailing Upwind
Lessons in Sailing Upwind William D. Parker, July 9, 2026 When my friend Dave Sandowich, a retired principal with 20+ years of admin experience, invited me to go sailing with me off the Chesapeake Bay, I was thrilled. This would be the third time he had taken me on the water, and my son Jack, […] The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Lessons in Sailing Upwind appeared first on Principal Matters.
PMP509: A Complaint Free World with Will Bowen
Meet Will Bowen Will Bowen is an internationally recognized speaker, author, and founder of the Complaint Free® Movement. This movement has inspired millions of people across more than 100 countries to live with greater positivity and personal accountability. He is best known for his bestselling book A Complaint-Free World, which introduced a simple yet powerful […] The post PMP509: A Complaint Free World with Will Bowen appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – The Problem with Certainty
Welcome back to another episode of Monday Matters! This week, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke talk about the problem with certainty. Certainty is not a bad thing. It is very soothing and comforting for us, but it doesn’t equal growth. In fact, being certain is a terrible substitute for growth. The idea of leadership as […] The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – The Problem with Certainty appeared first on Principal Matters.
PMP508: Rigor, Routines, and Relationships with Dina Langston & Stacey James
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: How can I discover my teacher’s unique “professional work languages?” Listen in to hear their response! You can use these questions to help discover those “work languages”: How do […] The post PMP508: Rigor, Routines, and Relationships with Dina Langston & Stacey James appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Why Vacation Matters
Today’s Monday Matters discusses the importance of summertime for mental break and the importance of disengagement from the worries. Will Parker and Jen Schwanke discuss the benefits of giving yourself a mental break from the stress of a leadership job. They talk about how taking a break will make the next school year better, and […] The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Why Vacation Matters appeared first on Principal Matters.
PMP507: Steady Leadership with Paden Morris
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: What would you say is the solution for the current state of decline in U.S. schools? Listen in to hear their response! Meet Paden Morris: Paden Morris serves as […] The post PMP507: Steady Leadership with Paden Morris appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – 10 Lessons from Masterminds
In this week’s Monday Matters, I share with Jen a list of 10 takeaways from learning I’ve experienced with leadership groups this past school year. We discuss several of them together and how these lessons have stood out in our thinking and growth. Here are 10 takeaways we explored together: Listen in for the whole […] The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – 10 Lessons from Masterminds appeared first on Principal Matters.
PMP506: Hope Is A Strategy with Jamie Meade
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: What is the difference between procedures and systems? Listen in to hear their response, and thank you for doing what matters! Meet Jamie Meade: With a career spanning over […] The post PMP506: Hope Is A Strategy with Jamie Meade appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Let Them Theory
Will Parker and Jen Schwanke spend this Monday Matters episode discussing one of Jen’s recent newsletters about the “let them” theory. The central thesis of their discussion is that school leaders can’t control other people’s emotions. They talk about how leading sometimes means making decisions that people disagree with, and being okay with that. Whether […] The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Let Them Theory appeared first on Principal Matters.
PMP505: A School Leader’s Playbook for Tough Conversations with Erika Bare & Tiffany Burns
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: I want to say yes to new opportunities outside my building without neglecting my first commitments to my school. Is it possible to do both? Listen in to hear […] The post PMP505: A School Leader’s Playbook for Tough Conversations with Erika Bare & Tiffany Burns appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Learning From Asparagus
This week on Monday Matters, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke reflect on a story that Jen recently shared in her newsletter. She shares the story of watching the asparagus her father planted to see if it would grow, only for it to grow when she wasn’t watching it. Will and Jen take some time to […] The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Learning From Asparagus appeared first on Principal Matters.
PMP504: Ready to Lead with AI with Dr. Kip Glazer
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: I’m working hard, doing good work, of course not perfectly, but I’m beginning to feel stuck. How do I keep myself from becoming complacent as a leader? Listen in […] The post PMP504: Ready to Lead with AI with Dr. Kip Glazer appeared first on Principal Matters.
PMP503: Time, Tools, and Tactics of Instructional Leadership with TJ Vari & Joseph Jones
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s episode Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: How do you know when you should stay or leave? I’m in a place in my career where I’m wanting to do something different and not finding as much […] The post PMP503: Time, Tools, and Tactics of Instructional Leadership with TJ Vari & Joseph Jones appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – The Perspective Question
This week’s episode of Monday Matters is about shifting one’s perspective. Will Parker and Jen Schwanke consider a question about perspective that Jen recently wrote about in her newsletter. The question is: “If every person in the world wrote down their problems and put them in a hat, would you risk taking on someone else’s […] The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – The Perspective Question appeared first on Principal Matters.
PMP502: Strategies for Effective Leadership with Dr. Erica Buchanan-Rivera
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: I’ve said yes to a new position within the district. How do I leave my current school in the best way possible while also doing my best to get […] The post PMP502: Strategies for Effective Leadership with Dr. Erica Buchanan-Rivera appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS: Making an Impact with Ohio Mastermind Members
In this episode of Monday Matters, Will Parker brings together a group of school leaders from Ohio who participate in an ongoing Impact Mastermind in partnership with the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, Adkins & Company, LLC, and Principal Matters, LLC. The conversation centers on how collective coaching and collaboration strengthen leadership practice and […] The post MONDAY MATTERS: Making an Impact with Ohio Mastermind Members appeared first on Principal Matters.
PMP501: Developing Teacher Leaders with Dr. Chris Jochum
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: I’ve been leading short-handed with an Assistant Principal on leave and without the kind of support I’ve wanted from my central office. Any advice for wrapping up a school […] The post PMP501: Developing Teacher Leaders with Dr. Chris Jochum appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS: “What Would Mastermind Do?” with Archdiocese of Louisville School Leaders
In this special episode of Monday Matters, I had the privilege of sitting down with members of a leadership mastermind group from the Archdiocese of Louisville Catholic Schools in Kentucky. Recorded during Kentucky Derby season, I affectionately referred to this group as my “Derby Mastermind.” Together, we reflected on how collective coaching, mentorship, collaboration, and […] The post MONDAY MATTERS: “What Would Mastermind Do?” with Archdiocese of Louisville School Leaders appeared first on Principal Matters.
PMP500: Celebrating 500 Conversations in School Leadership
A Milestone Built on Consistency and Community Episode 500 of Principal Matters is more than a milestone; it’s a reflection of years of consistency, curiosity, and commitment to elevating school leadership. What began as a blog in 2013 and evolved into a podcast in 2015 has grown into a global conversation among educators. With over […] The post PMP500: Celebrating 500 Conversations in School Leadership appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS: Jedi Lessons from Legacy Mastermind Leaders
When I was a boy, I loved watching Star Wars. I thought it was incredible when Jedi masters like Obi-Wan Kenobi or Luke Skywalker could persuade others through thought or outwit opponents through their use of “The Force.” Sometimes, I like to describe amazing educators as “Jedis” in their own work. You know that teacher […] The post MONDAY MATTERS: Jedi Lessons from Legacy Mastermind Leaders appeared first on Principal Matters.
PMP499: Cultivating Educator Wellness with Dr. Alli Phelps
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: I’m an assistant principal with 9 years of experience. I’ve made it to superintendent interviews to become principal of my school. K-8 with about 900 students. My competition is […] The post PMP499: Cultivating Educator Wellness with Dr. Alli Phelps appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Welcome to May-cember
Welcome to “May-Cember”: 5 Steps for Closing Out the School Year (And Preparing for Your Next Launch) by William D. Parker It’s the end of the school year, and the last month of school is often the busiest. My wife likes to call this month “May-cember” because, next to Christmas, there’s not a busier time […] The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Welcome to May-cember appeared first on Principal Matters.
PMP498: Rethinking High School with Dr. Dominique Smith
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: Help! Our school construction project was supposed to be finished for the start of next semester, and we found out it won’t be completed till some time in late […] The post PMP498: Rethinking High School with Dr. Dominique Smith appeared first on Principal Matters.
MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Wayward Solutions
Recently, Jen Schwanke shared a newsletter about wayward solutions. She and I spent this week’s episode of Monday Matters discussing solutions. Specifically, we talk about how solving a problem can sometimes lead to even more problems down the road. In school leadership, we are constantly trying to find solutions to problems, but we have to […] The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Wayward Solutions appeared first on Principal Matters.
PMP497: Magic Acronyms with Andrew Marotta
A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: I’m a new principal and preparing for my first meeting to let a teacher know we won’t be renewing their contract for next year. Any tips on how to […] The post PMP497: Magic Acronyms with Andrew Marotta appeared first on Principal Matters.