Stacey shares practical, highly repeatable ways to build belonging for staff and students: a simple “tap out” support system for tough days, staff-to-staff celebration routines, a joy-fueled Hoopla Committee, and High Five Fridays that bring community members into the school day in a fun, welcoming way.

You’ll also hear about Stockton’s Foster Grandparent Program (intergenerational classroom support), their mixed-age community groups that stay together from kindergarten through 8th grade, and the mindset shifts Stacey uses to keep culture strong—like noticing effort over compliance and turning complaining into curiosity.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. Culture as the heartbeat: Leading a PreK–8 building with presence and care

2. Tap-out support: Normalizing quick breaks for teachers on hard days

3. Foster Grandparent Program: Intergenerational support that builds belonging

4. The Power of Mattering: Noticing, affirming, and showing people they’re needed

5. Hoopla Committee: Staff-led fun that sustains morale and joy

6. High Five Fridays: Community members welcoming students into the day

7. Mixed-age community groups: Same group and leaders from kindergarten to 8th grade

Key Moments

01:44 36 years in one district

03:30 Long-term relationships with families

05:54 Stacey’s leadership mindset

07:26 Navigating retirements and staffing transitions

09:50 Culture as the heartbeat of the building

11:56 Peer learning and staff celebrations

13:49 Foster Grandparent Program

15:30 The Power of Mattering

17:14 Intergenerational impact on students

18:23 Trauma-informed practices

21:04 CharacterStrong and mental health supports

23:25 Visibility and daily teacher support

25:07 Tap-out in action

28:27 Changes in the profession

Connect with Stacey Green

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-green-35186283
Website: https://www.usd271.com/

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Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.

James brings more than 20 years in education and 14 years in leadership to his work, grounded in servant leadership, presence, and relentless belief in people. Less than 18 months into his tenure, he stepped into leadership during one of the district’s hardest moments, arriving just after a devastating tornado impacted the community and families he was called to serve.

From that moment forward, James has led Valley View with visible action and heart. Whether he is standing in car line on cold mornings, hand-delivering retention stipends to staff, chasing students to competitions late into the night, or building systems that support growth and accountability, James believes leadership must be present and actionable.

Together, Karen and James explore how culture shifts through small, intentional wins, why servant leadership requires both humility and high standards, and how engaging, encouraging, and empowering people creates momentum that transforms schools. 

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. Leadership in Crisis: Showing up immediately after a tornado and serving alongside the community.

   
   

2. Servant Leadership Redefined: Why humility and high expectations go hand in hand.

   
   

3. Presence That Matters: Being visible in classrooms, car lines, games, and performances.

   
   

4. Retention with Dignity: Hand-delivering equitable retention stipends to all staff.

   
   

5. Celebrating People Creatively: Bobbleheads, Thor hammers, thank-you notes, and meaningful recognition.

   
   

6. Engage. Encourage. Empower.: The three principles driving culture change at Valley View.

Key Moments

01:15 Life in a small but growing North Texas district

02:45 From criminal justice to education

05:01 Arriving in Valley View after a tornado

06:55 Leadership during crisis and community healing

09:59 “Being part of them, not them being part of me”

10:08 Servant leadership and common misconceptions

12:16 Friday Night Lights and everyday presence

14:52 Modeling leadership for staff

16:58 Weekly admin meetings and breaking silos

29:55 Academic progress and momentum

32:33 Celebrating students and staff creatively

34:25 The three Es: engage, encourage, empower

36:19 Core values and the “EAGLES” framework

Connect with James Womack 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/c-james-womack-538445

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Alpaca LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get-alpaca

Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.

With nearly two decades in education and a background that includes coaching, teaching history, and pastoral ministry, Christopher leads with empathy, deep listening, and a long-term view of stewardship. At Quitman ISD, culture is built intentionally through trust, presence, and a shared mission that guides daily decisions.

That mission, “Every child. Every chance. Every day.”, is more than a phrase. It serves as a decision-making filter for hiring, budgeting, leadership development, and classroom practice. From staff listening tours to leadership-focused meetings and the BUILD committee, Christopher shows how consistent, human-centered leadership creates a culture where people feel seen, supported, and proud to serve.

Together, Karen and Christopher explore how relational trust, intentional leadership development, and a focus on stewardship shape a district culture rooted in service, integrity, and joy. 

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. Start and End Together: Why Quitman ISD now always kicks off and closes the year with the whole staff in one room.

   
   

2. Real Transparency: How a simple budget comparison and regular updates calmed fears after pay cuts.

   
   

3. The 13th Check: Returning the 2% reduction in a single end-of-year payment and what it signaled to staff.

   
   

4. Designing for Autonomy: Restructuring buildings, principals’ roles, and a 6–12 activities director to shrink workloads and sharpen focus.

   
   

5. Presence Without Micromanaging: Visiting every building weekly, staying in hallways, and letting principals lead instruction.

Key Moments

 01:14 First impressions of Quitman ISD culture
 02:03 “Every child, every chance, every day”
 04:57 Christopher’s path into education
 08:06 Mentorship and leadership growth
 10:28 Identifying leaders “on the bubble”
 13:53 Relational trust and visibility
 16:00 Leadership meetings focused on growth
 18:19 Listening tours and staff voice
 21:10 Small changes with big impact
 24:08 Stewardship and legacy
 27:18 Culture in a small rural district
 30:41 Three culture words: service, integrity, fun
 34:01 Little win: the BUILD committee
 36:11 Advice for educators right now

Connect with Christopher Mason

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-mason-424723a8
Website : https://www.quitmanisd.net/

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Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.

Jordan leads a small rural district serving about 750 students, where leadership stretches far beyond classrooms. From guiding a major bond election and facilities redesign to driving bus routes and coaching junior high volleyball, Jordan believes trust is built by showing up and doing the work alongside others.

A former elementary teacher and coach, Jordan brings a “kids first, invested” mindset to every decision. Whether it’s celebrating staff birthdays, sending daily morning emails to keep everyone connected, recognizing students at board meetings, or building career pathways through CTE programs like welding and CNA, his focus stays rooted in relationships, opportunity, and community pride.

Together, Karen and Jordan explore how modeling commitment, celebrating people, and staying close to students can transform school culture and strengthen retention, trust, and joy in a district. 

Little Wins in This Episode

• Leading the Bond Process: How open steering committees and community voice shaped a needs-based bond proposal.

  
  

• Right-Sizing the District: Closing buildings, improving efficiency, and making hard decisions rooted in data and care.

  
  

• Still a Coach: Why Jordan coaches junior high volleyball and how it deepens trust with students and families.

  
  

• Everyday Visibility: Driving bus routes, filling in where needed, and being present in schools daily.

  
  

• Celebration Culture: Daily emails, birthday notes, staff recognition, and student shout-outs that build morale.

  
  

• Career Pathways: Launching welding and CNA programs tied directly to local workforce needs.

Key Moments

00:58 Inside Russell USD 407

02:37 What a superintendent really does during a bond election

06:14 Studying systems and district efficiency

08:12 Closing buildings and right-sizing the district

09:34 From classroom teacher to superintendent

11:22 Creating access through youth sports opportunities

13:17 Coaching as leadership

23:00 Celebrating staff and recognition at board meetings

26:00 Daily communication and morning emails

29:03 Creating a family feel across schools

31:16 Launching CTE programs

33:10 Welding, CNA, and workforce alignment

36:23 Lightning Round: culture words, little win, advice

Connect with Jordan Perez
Website: https://www.usd407.org/

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Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.

Jamie has spent 30+ years in education and more than a decade as a superintendent, centering his leadership on trust, transparency, autonomy, and taking care of people. When he arrived in Scott City in 2014, the district was coming out of a serious budget crisis and had just cut salaries by 2%.

What followed was a long, thoughtful process of rebuilding: simple budget “dashboards,” honest updates, reorganizing leadership roles to give principals smaller spans of control, and eventually paying back that 2% in a surprise “13th check.” Along the way, Jamie and his team built traditions like districtwide state send-offs and handwritten birthday cards for every staff member that knit together a culture he describes as connected, loyal, and motivated.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. Start and End Together: Why USD 466 now always kicks off and closes the year with the whole staff in one room.

2. Real Transparency: How a simple budget comparison and regular updates calmed fears after pay cuts.

3. The 13th Check: Returning the 2% reduction in a single end-of-year payment and what it signaled to staff.

4. Designing for Autonomy: Restructuring buildings, principals’ roles, and a 6–12 activities director to shrink workloads and sharpen focus.

5. Presence Without Micromanaging: Visiting every building weekly, staying in hallways, and letting principals lead instruction.

6. Birthday Cards & Send-Offs: Handwritten notes and whole-district state send-offs that build connection from PreK to 12.

Key Moments

02:16 Western Kansas roots and choosing rural life for his family

03:19 Jamie’s father, the lifelong “educator,” and what real reward means

05:14 Stepping into USD 466 during a budget crisis and 2% salary cuts

08:27 Practicing transparency with a simple budget “dashboard”

10:18 Paying back the 2% in a surprise “13th check”

12:09 Realizing staff were disconnected across buildings

13:03 “We always start together and end together” as a rallying cry

23:26 State send-offs: cross-country team walking all three buildings

25:17 Handwritten birthday cards for every staff member

26:59 Three words for culture: connected, loyal, motivated

29:54 A little win: Boss’s Day surprise from the central office team

Connect with Jamie Rumford

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-rumford-41790667

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Alpaca LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get-alpaca

Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.

A former sales and marketing professional who found his way into education through a career center, Ben spent 13 years in the classroom before becoming an assistant principal, founding principal of Capital City High School, and now superintendent. Along the way, he became known for greeting every student at the door each morning, building new traditions from scratch, and holding adults to the same high standards he holds for kids.

From “be a great teammate” to “prioritize what’s best for students” to “work with a purpose,” Ben’s leadership philosophy is simple and demanding. Whether he is out at elementary drop-off reassuring nervous parents, celebrating Falcon Fridays in Kelly green, or challenging his district not to settle for “above the state average,” Ben sees culture as the real engine behind any strategy.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. Fixing vs. Building vs. Honoring: How Ben approached three very different leadership roles: repairing a struggling 9th grade center, building Capital City High School from the ground up, and inheriting an already-strong culture at Blair Oaks.

   
   

2. Three Simple Rules: Why “be a great teammate,” “prioritize what’s best for kids,” and “work with a purpose” anchor every conversation with staff.

   
   

3. Front Door Fist Bumps: How greeting students every morning gave Ben a real-time read on student mood, staff energy, and building culture.

   
   

4. Presence Over Perfection: Why Ben still does elementary drop-off and pickup as superintendent to reassure families and show students school is a safe, welcome place.

   
   

5. Falcon Fridays & Kelly Green Pride: How weekly rituals and visible spirit connect four small communities into one shared identity.

Key Moments

02:16 Blair Oaks community pride and Friday night lights

04:22 From sales to teaching to leadership

06:46 Discovering passion at the career center

09:13 Becoming an AP and spotting culture issues

10:48 Overcrowded 9th grade campus and student needs

21:05 Hiring for culture and building identity

24:00 Greeting every student each morning

27:08 Reading student and staff energy

29:42 Joining Blair Oaks and earning trust

37:10 “Pressure is a privilege”

Connect with Mr. Ben Meldrum

Website: https://www.blairoaks.k12.mo.us/

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Karen’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenborchert

Alpaca LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get-alpaca

Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.

Shannon has led Mohonasen since 2018, navigating extraordinary challenges including the pandemic, districtwide culture shifts, and the sudden arrival of 70 English language learners with almost no notice. Across every challenge, his leadership remains grounded in humility, listening, and care for people.

From recognizing bus drivers over breakfast to empowering teachers through bottom-up leadership, from welcoming vulnerable students during crisis to implementing a bold cell phone policy focused on student wellbeing, Shannon shows what it looks like to lead with purpose, trust, and kindness in action.

Together, Karen and Shannon explore how culture is built in the small moments, why servant leadership matters now more than ever, and how schools can remain joyful, successful, and deeply human.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. Servant Leadership in Practice: How Shannon centers service, humility, and listening in every decision.

   
   

2. Bottom-Up Decision Making: Why curriculum, policies, and big changes work best when teachers lead the process.

   
   

3. Crisis Response with Care: Welcoming 70 newcomer students with almost no notice and rallying a community around them.

   
   

4. Cell Phone-Free Schools: How removing phones transformed student engagement, relationships, and learning.

   
   

5. Student Pride & Belonging: Building “Mohan Pride” through shared experiences and visible culture.

   
   

6. Therapy Dogs at School: How Liesl and Fritz the miniature dachshunds bring joy and calm to the high school halls

Key Moments

 01:19 Mohonasen’s community and district profile
 03:02 From aspiring astronaut to educator
 05:09 Why others saw teaching as Shannon’s calling
 09:43 Defining servant leadership and its roots
 12:36 What bottom-up leadership looks like in action
 16:04 How staff would describe Mohonasen’s culture
 18:21 Signs of pride, buy-in, and belonging
 19:47 STEAM Night and cross-grade student leadership
 21:50 Summer 2023 and the arrival of 70 newcomer students
 24:09 Responding with urgency, empathy, and community support
 29:50 Lasting impact of crisis leadership on staff culture
 33:49 Rethinking cell phone use in schools
 36:29 Implementing a new phone policy with shared leadership
 39:16 Student engagement after phones were removed
 42:30 Three words for culture: joyful, successful, purposeful
 44:07 Little win: therapy dogs in schools

Connect with Shannon Shine

Website:https://www.mohonasen.org/

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Alpaca LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get-alpaca

Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.

A longtime community member and former elementary teacher who found his calling in middle school, Principal Graham has built a culture defined by three words: integrity, love, and collaboration. From greeting students each morning with affirmations and “nothing but love for you,” to rearranging every classroom into collaborative groups, to running a 42-person staff group chat that doubles as a real-time support and celebration thread, his leadership is deeply personal and relentlessly student-centered.

Together, Karen and Devon dig into what it looks like to live out Cornerstone’s character mission every day: phone-free learning, radical transparency with families, hiring for heart first, and making sure both students and staff feel seen, supported, and held to high expectations.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. Nothing But Love: Why Devon starts every day with positive affirmations, clear expectations, and “I’ve got nothing but love for you” for his 6–8th graders.

2. Desks in Fours: How rethinking classroom layout—from rows to centers—teaches collaboration, difference, and global readiness.

3. Hiring for Heart: The interview questions, on-the-spot mock lessons, and “do you love children?” filter that shape Washington Parks’ staff.

4. The 42-Person Group Chat: One shared text thread for teachers and staff that handles bathroom breaks, tough moments, quick changes, and daily celebrations.

5. Radical Transparency with Families: How honest conversations about staffing, student challenges, and social media build trust and shared ownership.

6. Phone-Free as a Game Changer: Collecting cell phones every morning—and how it’s shifted focus, safety, and emotional regulation on campus.

Key Moments

01:20 Inside Washington Parks: community roots, family feel, daily affirmations

03:00 Morning “little wins”: clean halls, collaboration, and daily growth

03:28 Why desks aren’t in rows anymore—what collaboration looks like 
today

04:34 Devon’s path: from 5th grade teacher to middle school social studies

08:58 Cornerstone Schools & the three dimensions of a complete life

12:44 Hiring for culture: loving kids, mock lessons, and day-one expectations

16:09 Voice & vulnerability: making it safe for teachers to ask for help

19:26 The 42-person group chat: support, coordination, and daily “love my work family” notes

21:48 Real-time wins: assessment growth, emojis, and protecting instructional time

27:36 Working with families: Title I meetings & honest staffing updates

30:56 Phones & safety: collecting devices and partnering with parents

33:25 Teaching emotional regulation: more adults to talk to, fewer reasons to fight

34:49 Phone-free as a “game changer”: focus, recovery, and closing gaps

39:12 A little win: a retaken test, a 79/80, and a life-changing call home

42:42 What educators can do now: lead with care, love, and respect

Connect with Devon Graham 
Website: https://cornerstoneschools.org/

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Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:
Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.

A former coach who stepped into the principal role mid-pandemic, Bill has spent the last six years building a culture rooted in belonging, recognition, humor, and steady leadership through change. From TikTok morning messages to “Fantastic Friday” phone calls, from empowering teachers to letting seniors bring a lawnmower on “Anything But a Backpack Day,” Bill shows what happens when school feels human, joyful, and connected.

Together, Karen and Bill dive into culture-building that’s both intentional and fun and why talking to students may be the simplest, most powerful leadership move of all.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. About All Kids: Bill’s three-word culture mantra—and why inclusiveness is the heartbeat of Northshore.

   
   

2. Traditions That Stick: How post-COVID improvisation on the football field sparked new student-led rituals.

   
   

3. Empowering Staff: From eliminating mass emails to letting teachers run the school’s “Future Focus” night.

   
   

4. The Daily TikTok: Why a 60-second video builds connection, consistency, and joy across a 1500-student campus.

   
   

5. Fantastic Friday Calls: Celebrations that make parents cry happy tears—and are now spreading across the district.

   
   

6. Growing Together: How shifting the entire district to block scheduling became a collective exercise in trust and growth mindset.

Key Moments

00:01 Introducing Principal Bill Gallagher and Northshore High School

04:22 A family of educators & the unexpected path to leadership

06:58 Becoming principal overnight… in the middle of COVID

10:17 New traditions & letting students lead the fun

15:02 Empowering a 165-person staff through ownership and trust

16:35 Northshore Notes & the zero mass-emails policy

20:02 Future Focus Night and letting teachers shine

24:29 The power of being “just people” with your team

25:04 Why Bill makes a TikTok video every school day

32:11 Fantastic Friday phone calls and spreading recognition

36:41 How student & staff culture fuel each other

37:15 Moving to block scheduling—and navigating it together

42:36 Lightning Round: About All Kids, alumni teachers, & what every educator can do right now

Connect with Bill Gallagher
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/principal-gallagher

Website: https://northshorehigh.stpsb.org/

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Alpaca LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get-alpaca

Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.

With 19 years of experience across New York, Abu Dhabi, and now Alaska, Eric shares how life-and-death logistics, extreme weather, and geographic isolation shape a school where crew culture, emotional safety, and deep community connection aren’t optional—they’re survival.

From inheriting a struggling school with flat funding, high special education needs, and eight principals in ten years to building a “crew” that trusts each other, gives honest feedback, and shows up for kids, Eric walks through how vulnerability, visibility, and real-time listening have transformed his school’s culture.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. Living next to the glacier, teaching at the edge of the map
   What it means to lead a school within eyeline of the Mendenhall Glacier, in a capital city only accessible by boat or plane and why “thinking several steps ahead” is part of everyday school leadership.

   
   

2. From Long Island to Abu Dhabi to Alaska
   How diverse teaching experiences from rural New York to Queens to the United Arab Emirates shaped Eric’s belief in community integration and professional intimacy with families.

   
   

3. When survival and schooling intersect
   Stories of polar-bear lockdowns, moose at the door, minus-40 school days, and car heaters and how shared risk and dependence on one another builds a unique kind of community.

   
   

4. “Crew culture,” not isolation
   Why Eric calls his staff a “crew,” how job-alike isolation in small schools leads to loneliness, and what it takes to create emotional safety and shared purpose across just ten unique classrooms.

   
   

5. Turning around an unhealthy culture
   Stepping into a school with unstable leadership, funding crises, dissolved special education supports, and scared staff and how transparency, vulnerability, and showing your own learning curve help rebuild trust.

Key Moments

01:22 A school frozen in time—and why families fiercely protect it

02:18 Life in Juneau, Alaska: a city only accessible by boat or plane

03:24 Eric’s journey from Long Island to Abu Dhabi to Alaska

06:33 What the UAE taught him about community and relationship-based teaching

09:47 Moose at the door and minus-40 days: the realities of Alaskan schools

15:49 Pride, isolation, and being the only teacher in your grade

19:25 Taking over a school facing high turnover, low funding, and burnout

26:07 Rebuilding trust through vulnerability and transparent leadership

30:58 How Alpaca Pulse made feedback safe and actionable

41:03 Empowering paraprofessionals with training and a para PLC

48:04 A small win: moving his desk to the main office for more visibility

49:05 One thing educators can do right now: listen, reflect, act

Connect with Eric Filradi

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-filardi-84252411
Website: https://mrcs.juneauschools.org/en-US

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Karen’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenborchert

Alpaca LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get-alpaca

Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.

From navigating a 20–25% student mobility rate and growing homelessness to building a relational police department and a culture of “horizontal accountability,” Wade shows how a family atmosphere with a team spirit turns little wins into lasting change.

Together, Karen and Wade explore what it means to lead with positive intent, why every role is a leadership role, and how simple, consistent practices like no direct instruction the first three days of school and making sure no student goes hungry create deep, human-centered school culture.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. Leading a “small but mighty” district: How Westwood ISD meets the needs of a highly mobile and often hidden homeless student population with wraparound care.

   
   

2. Redefining school policing: Why Wade launched a district police department focused on relationships, soft uniforms, and early intervention instead of punishment.

   
   

3. Horizontal accountability: How “everybody holds everybody accountable” creates trust—from students speaking up to assistant principals giving honest feedback to the superintendent.

   
   

4. From coach to superintendent: The story of Coach Hagler’s biology class, a high school track meet, and the moment Wade knew he was called to education.

   
   

5. No direct instruction the first three days: How Westwood uses the start of school to build relationships, ensure kids are fed and safe, and set a foundation for learning.

   
   

6. “Everybody’s a leader”: The belief statement that empowers food service, admin assistants, and teachers alike to lead from where they are.

   
   

7. Family atmosphere, team spirit: Why Westwood embraces the heart of family but the standards and accountability of a high-performing team.

Key Moments

00:01 Introducing Superintendent Wade Stanford and Westwood ISD

01:20 A rural district with high mobility—and why relationships matter more than ever

02:45 What a 20–25% mobility rate really means for kids and families

09:09 “Horizontal accountability” and students speaking up when something isn’t right

11:25 Building trust through vulnerability, positive intent, and honest feedback

13:14 Coach Hagler’s biology class and the moment Wade chose education

18:39 Knowing when you’re truly ready for the next stage of your career

20:51 No direct instruction the first three days—only relationships, safety, and care

27:23 “Everybody’s a leader; they lead from where they’re at”

31:17 A family atmosphere with a team spirit—and why teams don’t tolerate dysfunction

40:15 One thing any educator can do to strengthen culture right now

Connect with Wade Stanford

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wade-stanford-9319a3ab
Website: https://www.westwoodisd.net/

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Karen’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenborchert

Alpaca LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get-alpaca

Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.

A Voorheesville resident for over 20 years and a former music teacher and jazz saxophonist, Frank shares how leading where you live changes everything how he thinks about visibility, presence, and the tiny interactions that build trust. From greeting students, to tracking his connections with over 200 staff members, to a district-wide “Blackbirds” mantra, Frank shows how intentional, everyday actions turn culture into a lived experience for students, staff, and families.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. From First-Gen Grad to Superintendent: How Frank’s journey from aspiring musician to educator shaped his belief in school as a place that breaks cycles and opens doors.

   
   

2. Culture in the Micro-Moments: Why a sprint down the hallway and the feedback that followed transformed how he thinks about presence, tone, and perception.
   
   
3. The Connection Tracker: How logging meaningful interactions with staff and students helps ensure everyone feels seen, valued, and included.

   
   

4. Learning to Lead (Again): How professional development at Harvard and in situational leadership reframed his approach to visibility, support, and growth for his team.

   
   

5. Shared Decisions, Clear Roles: Inside Voorheesville’s committee and shared decision-making model and why “input” doesn’t always mean “final say.”

Key Moments

01:19 “We bleed purple and gold”: Community, homecoming, and fireworks on campus

03:03 From first-gen high school graduate to music teacher and school leader

04:09 Jazz saxophone, caroling, and bringing music into the superintendent’s role

05:36 When running to a situation escalated everyone else and what it taught him about perception

07:37 Smiling, whistling, and greeting students: tiny behaviors with big impact

09:31 The “connection tracker”: how Frank logs interactions with 200+ staff members

17:19 Professional development, Harvard courses, and discovering the ladder of inference

20:18 One Minute Manager, situational leadership, and building a goal-setting culture

24:37 How admin goal tracking shifted focus, feedback, and personal growth

29:14 Redesigning shared decision making, committees, and incentives for educator voice

Connect with Frank Macri

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-macri-9a54b8124 

Website: https://www.voorheesville.org/

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🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.

A Central Lee alum himself, Dr. Crozier returned home to lead the district that shaped him and has spent the past decade proving that culture is a strategy. From visible leadership and weekly scoreboards to thoughtful staff recognition and quality-first decisions, Andy shows how consistent, intentional actions turn values into results.

Together, Karen and Andy explore how presence, trust, and pride create a ripple effect across classrooms, staff, and community, and how happy teachers really do make happy kids.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. From Student to Superintendent: How Dr. Crozier’s journey home shaped his leadership philosophy.

2. Culture as Strategy: Building award-winning schools through visibility, recognition, and accountability.

3. Happy Teachers → Happy Students: Why employee joy is at the heart of student success.

4. The Power of Presence: How weekly walkthroughs, one-on-ones, and PLC visits fuel authentic connection.

5. Recognition That Matters: Why high-quality staff gifts and visible appreciation strengthen pride and belonging.

Key Moments

00:01 Introducing Dr. Andy Crozier and Central Lee CSD

02:15 Small-town pride and culture that feels like family

13:45 Turning feedback into growth and systems of visibility

16:58 How weekly “wins and measures” create sustainable change

20:14 Scoreboards, accountability, and the 4 Disciplines of Execution

26:07 Walkthroughs, PLC visits, and visibility as a superintendent

28:27 “Little Wins” that drive culture from Yeti cups to recognition

39:00 “Find a way to be in a good mood”: The mindset that changes everythin

Connect with Dr. Andy Crozier
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-crozier-92106925a
Website:https://www.centrallee.org/

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Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.

A former PE teacher and longtime high school principal, Dr. Magliari brings both heart and systems thinking to leadership. His doctoral research on teacher burnout and retention continues to shape how he leads with intentional listening, shared decision-making, and a relentless belief that “it takes all of us.”

Together, Karen and Adam unpack how Mediapolis (known locally as “Mepo”) lives out its vision, Motivated by Excellence, Pride, and Opportunity. From preschool expansion and strategic planning to student “Lighthouse Teams” and staff mentorship, this episode shines a light on how small, deliberate actions build thriving school cultures.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. “It Takes All of Us”: How one simple motto inspired collaboration across every level of the district.

   
   

2. Individualized Consideration: What Dr. Magliari’s research reveals about supporting and retaining great teachers.
   
   
3. The Lighthouse Team: A leadership model empowering staff — and now students — to own their school’s goals.
   
   
4. Community Connection: Partnering with the city to align school and community vision through 2050.

   
   

5. Culture in Action: From announcing football games to joining the lunch line, visibility and humility drive trust.

Key Moments

00:02 Introducing Dr. Adam Magliari and the Mediapolis community

03:20 Launching the district’s first preschool

06:30 Building two-way trust with the community

09:30 Visibility, involvement, and leadership by example

13:00 From student teacher struggles to superintendent lessons

19:00 The “Four I’s” of transformational leadership

22:30 Why individualized consideration matters most

43:00 Career exploration and “grow your own” educator programs

44:38 Celebrating staff ownership and shared wins

46:10 Advice for new leaders: “Change takes time, listen first.”

Connect with Dr. Adam Magliari 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-magliari-877801331
Website: https://www.meposchools.org/

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Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.

A proud Kiski graduate himself, Matt returned to lead his alma mater 30 years later with a clear philosophy: be visible, be authentic, and celebrate every win, big or small. From music between classes to his “CAVS LEAD” ticket system for leadership and empathy, to showing up on the school’s live morning show, Matt has created a culture where everyone feels seen and valued.

He shares how a “senior prank” became a driveway breakfast, why he eats lunch at a student desk in the hallway, and how a small idea like purposeful positivity can ripple through an entire building.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

• Purposefully Positive: A simple mindset that reframes every conversation toward what’s working.

  
  

• CAVS LEAD Tickets: Students and staff recognized for leadership, empathy, accountability, and determination.

  
  

• Visible Leadership: Morning announcements and hallway lunches as daily connection points.

  
  

• Joy in the Hallways: Replacing bells with music to make every transition fun.

  
  

• Hire for Heart: Why connecting with kids matters more than the perfect interview answer.

  
  

• Aspiring Educators Program: Building the next generation of teachers through early classroom experience.

Key Moments

00:01 Welcome to Little Wins

01:19 What you feel when you walk Kiski’s halls

03:35 Coming home: leading his alma mater

05:24 Year 1 as principal—being himself and setting tone

07:08 “Purposefully positive” leadership and hiring the right team

08:50 The CAVS LEAD ticket system

13:53 Music instead of bells: joy in transitions

19:26 Morning announcements and hallway visibility

25:29 The musical cameo: celebrating student work

31:48 Aspiring Educators program

37:59 Senior sunrise, sunset, and student-led traditions

42:30 The senior prank breakfast

44:26 The power of being yourself

Connect with Matthew Smith

Website: https://highschool.kiskiarea.com/ 

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🧵 About the Podcast

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures—one meaningful win at a time.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Little Wins for more stories of courage, connection, and culture from leaders who prove that big change starts small.

Chris shares how his journey from foster homes to the superintendent’s chair shaped his belief that leadership starts with showing up. From greeting families at bus drop-off to broadcasting thank-yous on the district radio, he models a culture of presence, gratitude, and service.

Through stories of resilience, humor, and heart, Chris reminds us that school culture isn’t built all at once—it’s built over time, through relationships and small daily wins.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

• Leadership Through Service: Chris shows how visibility and presence create lasting trust.
• First Impressions Matter: Why he suits up on the first day to honor the profession and set the tone.
• Cheers at the Door: Creating a “Norm” culture where everyone feels seen and welcomed.
• Homegrown Talent: Hiring graduates builds pride and belonging across generations.
• Everyday Gratitude: A radio shoutout to transportation staff becomes a district-wide ritual.
• Resilient Roots: From foster homes to superintendent, Chris leads with empathy and perspective.
• Keep Showing Up: Culture grows from consistency, commitment, and care.

  
  

Key Moments:

00:00 Welcome to Little Wins

02:00 Life and learning in rural Ellicott

06:00 Serving military families and building trust

10:45 Returning home to teach where it all began

18:10 First impressions and new teacher welcome

19:50 Tai Chi, Dungeons & Dragons, and unexpected student connections

32:40 Building culture through visibility and service

35:00 Dressing up for the first day: small signals, big meaning

39:20 Checking the tiles—how Chris supports staff quietly and personally

42:20 Three words that define Ellicott’s culture

45:00 One little win worth celebrating

46:00 Leadership lessons for every educator

Connect with Chris Smith
Ellicott School District 22: https://www.ellicottschools.org/

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🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures, one meaningful win at a time.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures—one little win at a time.

Over his 13 years leading Keene ISD, Dr. Stephens has shaped a district guided by one simple but powerful promise: Every child, every need, every day. From launching the Keene 22—a set of everyday habits and character expectations—to transforming classrooms into hands-on learning experiences, his story is a testament to what happens when a community leads with trust and kindness.

In this conversation, Dr. Stephens shares how small acts, like holding the door open or greeting students by name, have become the heartbeat of a district that values people as much as performance. He reveals how Keene’s “house system” builds belonging across grades, how teachers model empathy and presence, and why a long-term commitment to “making learners, not takers” is changing everything—from student confidence to test scores.

Whether you’re leading a large urban district or a single-school community, this episode will inspire you to slow down, find your why, and invest in the little things that make big culture possible.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

The Keene 22: A simple, powerful framework that teaches students life habits—like shaking hands, showing gratitude, and respecting others’ ideas—that prepare them to be better humans.

Makers, Not Takers: From transformation rooms to classroom “emergency rooms,” Keene students learn by doing—and become active creators of their education.

Culture by Design: A decade-long commitment to relationships, not quick fixes, builds trust and long-term success.

The House System: Inspired by the Ron Clark Academy, Keene’s color-based houses connect students across grades and backgrounds to create true belonging.

Argue Without Anger: Through classroom debates and public-speaking events, students learn to disagree without hate and communicate with confidence.

Little Acts, Big Lessons: From holding doors to saying “thank you,” Keene 22 habits shape a district where kindness is contagious.

Key Moments

00:01 Welcome to Little Wins

03:42 Finding the “Why” at Keene ISD

08:05 The Transformation Room: Turning Classrooms into Real-World Labs

13:08 Discovering the Ron Clark Academy

17:31 How the House System Builds Belonging

19:41 What Is the Keene 22?

22:47 Teaching Students to “Argue Without Anger”

26:19 Modeling Culture Through Hiring and Habits

32:07 Stories of Everyday Wins—from Classrooms to the Community

35:13 Trusting the Long Game in School Leadership

42:05 Small Wins That Prove It’s Working

44:26 How Personal “Whys” Create Healthy Cultures

Connect with Dr. Ricky Stephens
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricky-stephens-9b9737179/
Keene ISD Website: https://www.keeneisd.org 

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🧵 About the Podcast
Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures—one meaningful win at a time.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Little Wins for more stories of courage, connection, and culture from leaders who prove that big change starts small.

She shares how culture, for her, “isn’t optional”—it’s built intentionally through joyful traditions, shared rituals, and small, human moments. From Friday-morning bagel breakfasts to phone-free leadership retreats, Maria’s story is a masterclass in weaving purpose into every decision. Her team’s motto this year, “I Choose Joy,” is more than a sticker; it’s a daily reminder that school culture begins with how we show up—for our students, our colleagues, and ourselves.

Whether she’s launching assemblies that make middle-schoolers feel like rock stars, greeting every staff member by name, or hosting her district’s own podcast to elevate student voice, Maria models what it means to lead with both heart and high standards.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

• Culture Is Not Optional: Maria reminds us that joy, connection, and belonging aren’t extras—they’re the work.

  
  

• Stickers with a Story: Each year’s sticker (“Nimble,” “Gratitude,” “I Choose Joy”) anchors a district-wide theme that guides how people show up.

  
  

• Bagels and Belonging: Weekly central-office breakfasts protect time for laughter, connection, and being human together.

  
  

• Assemblies That Unite: Monthly gatherings where students cheer each other on—and even teachers join the band—build shared joy and pride.

  
  

• Name Every Face: Maria learns every student’s and staff member’s name to ensure everyone feels seen.

  
  

• Student Voice at the Center: From chocolate-chip-cookie focus groups to a district podcast, Maria keeps students in the conversation.

  
  

• Joy, Love & Quality: Her three guiding words define what it means to lead a district that’s both warm and world-class.

Key Moments

05:50 Finding Joy Amid Challenges

09:07 Finding Joy Amid Challenges

12:58 Teaching for Purpose and Balance

15:54 "Sailing Leadership Lessons"

18:59 Intentional Leadership and School Culture

21:14 Building Trust Through Leadership

25:36 "Creating the Best Years Together"

29:44 Phone-Free School Boosts Engagement

32:21 Weekly Team Bonding Boosts Culture

35:18 "Prioritizing Team Connection Time"

37:09 "Learning as an Ecosystem"

43:56 Super Story: Voices in Education

45:34 Elevating Student Voices

49:56 "Community, Phones, & School Leadership"

Connect with Maria Libby 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marialibby 

Website: https://csd.fivetowns.net/ 

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Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures, one meaningful win at a time.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures—one little win at a time.

Troy shares how being a student again—literally taking quizzes alongside kids—helps teachers feel at ease and gives him real insight to advocate for classrooms. He talks about modeling risk through memorable convocation themes (a mini-basketball, a robot, a hammer… and even a Flash costume) to give staff permission to try, iterate, and have fun. And he explains why stepping back to let others lead—like handing a tech plan to a teacher team—builds capacity, buy-in, and better results.

Whether you’re leading a rural district or a large system, you’ll find practical ideas for zapping, not sapping energy; creating teacher-led professional learning; and staying future-focused with AI, efficiency, and purposeful fun at the center.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

• Be a Student (Again): Sit with kids, take the quiz, feel the flow—then give feedback from a learner’s seat. Visibility that actually lowers anxiety and raises insight.

  
  

• Props with a Purpose: Mini basketballs (“take your shot”), a robot (demystify AI), a hammer (“Is there a better way?”)—memorable anchors that normalize risk-taking and iteration.

  
  

• Permission Culture: When leaders show up in costume or try something new, everyone gets permission to create, experiment, and find joy in the work.

  
  

• Let Others Lead: Shift from directing to developing—teacher-led tech planning produced a comprehensive, funded roadmap with real ownership.

  
  

• Celebrate Longevity & Belonging: From new-teacher lunches with mentors to a 47-year custodian’s standing ovation—rituals that say, “You matter here.”

Key Moments

02:10 Career Path to Superintendent

07:05 "Be a Learner" Classroom Quizzes

11:27 "Take Your Shot" Mini Basketball

13:20 Demystifying AI for Feedback

14:37 The Flash & Efficiency

15:28 "Is There a Better Way?" Hammer

24:28 Teacher-Led Tech Plan & Buy-In

37:34 Celebrating 47 Years of Service

39:21 Immerse Yourself in the Learning

Connect with Troy Hopkins

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/troy-hopkins-5560a068
Website: https://www.northstonington.k12.ct.us/ 

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Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures, one meaningful win at a time.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures—one little win at a time.

From redefining building aesthetics with a shared color palette and secure, welcoming entries to partnering with first responders on crisis communication, Jessica models courageous, thoughtful leadership. She also breaks down structural tweaks, like a single common lunch and conference-style PD that create time for clubs, relationships, and real adult learning. If you’re rethinking culture without a massive budget, this conversation is a playbook.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

• Design for Calm → A shared, muted district color palette gives teachers autonomy within a cohesive, soothing environment.

  
  

• Welcome with Intention → Farmhouse-cozy, human office spaces + clear entry flow reduce noise and anxiety the moment you arrive.

  
  

• Phones Away, Bell-to-Bell → Lockable pouches and clear, zero-exceptions expectations reclaim attention and reduce social media fallout.

  
  

• One Lunch, One Community → A single common lunch opens time for clubs, connection, and five extra minutes of instruction per class.

  
  

• Care for the Hive → Beekeeping and marigold vs. black walnut metaphors remind everyone they share responsibility for culture.

Key Moments

03:07 Celebrating Nostalgia and Calm in School Buildings

05:25 Redesigning Spaces with Teacher & Student Voice

09:51 From Special Education Teacher to Superintendent

13:04 Meeting People Where They Are—Leadership Philosophy

17:58 Eliminating Smartphones and Smart Tech in Classrooms

24:20 Restoring Joy, Conversation, and Engagement

29:39 Partnering with Parents and First Responders on Safety

34:26 Bridging Veteran and New Teachers’ Perspectives

37:15 Personalizing Professional Learning for Staff

39:18 One Common Lunch to Build Community

44:30 Caring for the Hive: Shared Responsibility for Culture

Connect with Dr. Jessica Sonntag

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-sonntag-ed-d-83a93171 

Website: https://www.hbr429.org/ 

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Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures, one meaningful win at a time.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures—one little win at a time.

From innovative learning spaces and student-led town halls to the school’s daily Flex program, Grant reveals how MaST builds a sense of pride and community that keeps students and even alumni returning as staff. His leadership style anchored in visibility, responsiveness, and grace, models what it means to build trust and inspire both teachers and students.

If you’ve ever wondered how small daily choices add up to a strong, joyful school culture, this conversation is full of insight and inspiration.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

• Creating Community Through Design: From updated buildings to innovative learning spaces, MaST prioritizes pride in the physical environment as a foundation for pride in learning.

• Elevating Teacher Voice: Grant builds culture by making sure teachers are heard—through committees, hallway conversations, and everyday visibility.

• Town Halls & Pods: Revamping student-led forums and cross-grade groups to foster dialogue, mentoring, and shared responsibility.

• The Flex Program: Daily choice-based sessions that mix remediation, clubs, and creative electives—from Hamilton deep-dives to dorm-room cooking—keeping student learning fresh, personal, and fun.

• Culture in Three Words: Pride, grace, and inspiration—Grant’s personal compass for school culture and growth.

Key Moments

03:47 Innovative Learning and Community Spirit

08:49 Career Change Leads to Long Teaching Tenure

10:17 Cultivating Leadership and Culture

14:32 Encouraging Responsiveness in Education

16:18 Proactive Note-Taking and Meetings

20:49 Random Pod Meetings in Education

23:45 Balancing Activity Variety in Programs

27:13 Weekly Flex Period Planning

31:03 Impact of School Expansion

35:18 "IKEA's Impact on Community Pride"

35:52 Creating Pride Through Innovative Spaces

39:25 Challenges of a High School Principal

Connect with Mr Grant W Gellert

Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-gellert-217b913b

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Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures, one meaningful win at a time.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures—one little win at a time.

Jeremy shares how his district’s move to a four-day school week has supported both student wellbeing and teacher retention—giving families breathing room and protecting time for educators. He reflects on how three-year mentoring programs and peer-to-peer observations help new teachers grow with confidence and connection, while initiatives like steering committees give teachers a voice in big decisions about finance and strategy.

From his own story of once struggling in school to now leading with empathy and purpose, Jeremy’s journey is a reminder that culture isn’t built through programs alone, but through consistency, trust, and everyday actions—like high fives in the hallway and phone calls home.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

• Four Days, Big Impact: Elsberry’s four-day school week protects time for teachers, improves mental health, and gives families space to breathe.

• Three-Year Mentoring: New teachers are paired with mentors far beyond year one, ensuring long-term support and belonging.

• Peer-to-Peer Learning: Teachers observe each other’s classrooms during planning periods, sparking growth, reflection, and trust.

• Phone Calls Over Emails: A district-wide 24-hour callback practice keeps parent communication personal and relational.

• Steering Committee Voice: Teachers and staff now weigh in on district priorities like finance and improvement plans, aligning everyone to row in the same direction.

Key Moments

05:53 Exploring the Four-Day School Week

09:15 "Student-Centric School Leadership Values"

11:22 Unified Team Communication

14:06 New Staff Orientation Day

16:39 Positive Reinforcement in Teaching

23:04 Leadership Committee Establishment

24:15 "Baseball's Journey to Self-Discovery"

28:20 Building Visibility and Recognition

30:43 "Purposeful Education Through Collaboration"

34:06 Building Positive School Connections

Connect with Dr. Jeremy Davidson

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jeremy-davidson-081123a1 

Website:https://www.elsberryschools.com/ 

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Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures, one meaningful win at a time.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures—one little win at a time.

Dr. Byrom shares insights from his doctoral research on teacher retention in rural schools, revealing six key drivers that keep educators rooted in their communities. He explains how situational leadership allows him to adapt his style to each staff member, why parent-led storytelling is the best branding a district can ask for, and how empowering teachers with autonomy, data, and growth opportunities fosters both pride and humanity in schools.

Whether you’re leading in a rural district, balancing tight budgets, or simply looking for ways to create a culture people want to be part of, this episode offers powerful lessons on how small, intentional acts of visibility and care can transform a district from the inside out.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

• From Police Beat to School Hallways: Dr. Byrom’s unique path from law enforcement to education instilled his belief in catching kids before you have to catch them—building trust through presence and consistency.

• Six Drivers of Retention: Pay may matter most, but Dr. Byrom’s research shows culture, administrative support, branding, flexibility, and strong district decisions are equally critical to keeping teachers.

• Branding Through Parents’ Voices: By celebrating wins on Facebook and inviting parents into classrooms, Poth ISD lets its community—not just the district—tell the story of pride and safety.

• Situational Leadership in Action: Knowing staff well enough to adjust how feedback is delivered (without changing the message) has transformed trust and approachability across the district.

• Promoting From Within: By identifying and encouraging leadership potential, Dr. Byrom builds a pipeline of principals and directors from his own teaching staff—proving that growth doesn’t always have to come from outside.

Key Moments

05:18 "From Fugitive to Mentor"

06:53 From Teacher to Education Leader

10:52 Teacher Retention Crisis in Texas

13:38 School Budget Challenges and Constraints

18:01 Inconsistent Educational Leadership Decisions

20:21 Boosting Branding Through Community Involvement

24:45 Memorable Interactions in Education

26:04 Adaptive Leadership Communication Strategies

30:39 Collaborative Peer Mentorship Approach

33:01 Empowering Teachers Through Manageable Class Sizes

41:00 Administrative Triumph and Contract Renewal

43:39 "Empowering Educators through Autonomy"

Connect with Dr. Albert Lee Byrom

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albert-lee-byrom-ed-d-3543219a 

Website: https://www.pothisd.us/ 

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🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures, one meaningful win at a time.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures—one little win at a time.

Nick shares how his team has built a culture of care through social–emotional learning, mentoring, and restorative practices—doubling counseling staff and embedding supports so that every student feels safe, seen, and ready to learn. He reflects on how departmentalizing grades 1–5 and introducing teacher “badges” for self-directed professional growth are freeing educators to focus on what matters most. And he explains why empathy, visibility, and wellness are central to sustaining both staff and students in the hard work of education.

Whether you’re leading in a rural district, a suburban school, or simply curious about what it takes to balance tradition with innovation, this episode offers practical and inspiring ideas for how consistent, intentional culture-building can create schools where people genuinely want to be.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

• Doubling Down on Care: Counseling staff doubled, a full-time therapist added, and restorative practices embedded—making student wellbeing the foundation for learning.

• Mentors Everywhere: From administrators to bus drivers, any adult can serve as a 
  mentor, giving students trusted connections beyond the classroom.

  
  

• Wellness Days for Staff: Half-days for massages, fitness, and even pickleball create space for staff to recharge and build cross-role relationships.

• Badges, Not Mandates: A self-directed professional development program rewards teachers with skill badges (like AI, Canva, or Google) and a coveted day off.

• Future-Driven Learning: Redesigning classroom spaces and launching student “badges” for critical skills like collaboration and problem-solving—years ahead of state mandates.

Key Moments

03:29 Aspiring Superintendent's Journey

09:18 "Staff Consistency Ensures Stability"

13:33 Decentralized Educational Strategy Translation

19:22 Prioritizing Students' Emotional Wellbeing

20:31 Enhancing Counseling and Behavioral Support

23:56 Inclusive Team Building at School

29:42 "Adapting Education Post-COVID"

31:16 Streamlined K-5 Teaching Model

34:15 "Transformative Efficient AI in Education"

37:16 Faculty Skills Badge Program

42:38 "Future-Driven Education by 2029"

44:30 Financial Strategies for Sustainable Growth

Connect with Dr. Nick Fitzgerald

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-fitzgerald-19872222a
Website: https://www.canajoharieschools.org/ 

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Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures, one meaningful win at a time.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures—one little win at a time.

Sarah shares the story of how her staff turned a tough setback into a defining moment of growth, building a culture where vulnerability, courage, and collaboration thrive. From facing down the challenges of being labeled a “priority school” to celebrating statewide recognition, Sarah reflects on the power of shared goals, hard conversations, and showing up for one another.

Whether you lead in a small school, a large district, or simply want to see what it looks like when educators rally around each other, this episode offers inspiration for how consistent, intentional culture-building can transform schools from the inside out.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

• All-Staff Professional Development: Teachers across all grade levels gather to learn together, strengthening alignment and relationships between elementary and secondary staff.

• From Priority to Progress: Bear Lake rebounded from being placed on Michigan’s “priority school” list to earning statewide recognition—proving that resilience and teamwork can flip a narrative in record time.

• Celebrating Data with “Data Digs”: Staff turn test results into collaborative growth moments, asking “What are you doing that’s working?” and sharing strategies openly.

• Hard Conversations, Courageously Led: A culture where trust and care allow staff to challenge one another honestly, knowing the shared goal is student success.

• Welcoming New Staff Like Family: Veteran teachers personally reach out to new hires—even in the summer—to ensure they feel supported and part of the community from day one.

Key Moments

04:19 Navigating Leadership and Succession

08:16 Evolving School Recognition Programs

11:54 Fostering Communication Among Educators

15:16 Building Team Culture in Schools

18:55 Facing Test Scores and Reflection

22:55 Navigating Difficult Conversations Among Teachers

26:09 Embracing Hard Conversations for Unity

27:10 Career-Reviving Decision

32:58 "Celebrating Success Through Collaboration"

35:29 "Resilient School Community"

37:40 Celebrating Wins and Hard Conversations

Connect with Sarah Harless

Website: https://bllakers.org/

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Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures, one meaningful win at a time.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures—one little win at a time.

From morning greetings to empowering student leaders, Evan shows us how the “little wins” of daily practice add up to big impact in education. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep joy alive in the hard work of teaching and leading, this conversation is a masterclass in authenticity and energy.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode

1. Build Culture Before Systems: Evan prioritizes trust and relationships before implementing systems, knowing culture must come first.
2. Leadership Through Visibility: By showing up in classrooms and greeting students, he models what presence looks like in practice.
3. Start Meetings with Wins: Every leadership meeting begins by recognizing success, fueling morale and momentum.
4. Turning Feedback into Action: Teachers’ and students’ voices directly shape decisions—closing the loop with transparency.
5. Leading with Gratitude: Evan makes it a habit to thank staff and students, reinforcing a culture of recognition and belonging.

Key Moments

06:10 Reuniting with Former Students

09:48 Collaborative Teams and Commitments

12:38 Fostering Growth and Support

13:58 "Discussing Success in Meetings"

19:54 Celebrating Positive Behaviors with High Five Cards

23:44 Employee Recognition Letters Home

26:44 Staff Appreciation Slideshow & Treats

28:05 "Popsicle Hotline Superintendent"

32:26 "Confidence in Sellable Lessons"

35:41 GSL Sportsmanship Meeting

38:08 Supporting Students Amid Challenges

43:06 "Creating Joyful, Caring Culture"

Connect with Evan Hecker

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-hecker-17b1b4164

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Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures, one meaningful win at a time.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures—one little win at a time.

Karen and Dr. Perrone dig into what it means to lead through connection in a system with five school committees, five sets of community dynamics, and five unique educational cultures. From building a central office team from scratch to establishing trust across communities, Dr. Perrone shares practical strategies—like his “Four Cs,” central office roadshows, and even a school-leader-themed newsletter—that help shape a culture of compassion, collaboration, and presence.

This conversation is packed with transferable ideas for any school or district leader, and a reminder that showing up—literally and figuratively—is where real change begins.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. The Central Office Roadshow: With no unified convocation possible across five districts, Dr. Perrone and his team hit the road to deliver presentations at every school—starting each one with a word cloud generated from staff feedback. A small act with big impact: “We heard you.”

   
   

2. Three Words on a Whiteboard: “How can I help? Who needs to know? Was it confirmed?” These simple, guiding questions sit on a whiteboard in Dr. Perrone’s office—and quietly shape how he leads every day.

   
   

3. Making Goals Actually Matter:  By anchoring strategic plans to educator goals, school improvement plans, and his own leadership objectives, Dr. Perrone keeps vision tied to daily action—and insists that goals be relevant, authentic, and lived, not shelved.

   
   

4. Being Known by Kindergarteners: When a kindergartener pointed him out to her mom as “Dr. Perrone, the superintendent,” it was more than a cute moment. It was a testament to his visible, felt presence across all schools.

   
   

5. Listening, Even When the Answer Is No: Whether it’s through Google Forms or face-to-face conversations, Dr. Perrone makes a habit of hearing feedback—and letting people know how (or why not) he’s acting on it. Transparency as trust-building.

Key Moments

05:35 Building Trust Between Schools and Towns

08:38 "Building Trust and Collaboration"

10:44 "Feeling Others' Perspectives"

16:06 Goal Execution through Stakeholder Engagement

18:01 Empowering Team Through Communication

21:00 Engaging Complex Educational Communities

25:13 Engaged School Community Presence

26:21 "Feedback Acknowledgment Challenges"

30:08 "Superintendent Recognition Moment"

33:57 Massachusetts Fiscal Challenges

37:16 Correctional Education and Recidivism

39:41 Superintendent's Renewed School Engagement

42:13 "Thoughtful Leadership Insights Shared"

Connect with Dr. Vito Perrone

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vito-perrone-662b6853

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Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures, one meaningful win at a time.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures—one little win at a time.

In their conversation, Jordan shares how he's building a thriving culture rooted in trust, shared ownership, and relational leadership. From recess duty to vision-setting, every move he makes is grounded in a simple truth: people come first.

Whether you're a school leader, educator, or community member, this episode is full of actionable wins—small shifts with big impact.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. First, Build the People: Before focusing on academics or data, Jordan made it his mission to be seen, be known, and be trusted. His early days were spent in classrooms and hallways—not offices.

2. It’s Not Just the Principal’s Vision: Jordan invited teachers, students, and families into the process of defining the school’s identity. The result? Shared vision and deeper buy-in.

3. From Complaints to Committees: Instead of brushing off concerns, he turned staff frustrations into leadership opportunities, creating task forces that gave people ownership of the solution.

4. Recess Duty Revival: What started as a routine turned into a relationship-builder. Jordan’s presence during recess helped shift school climate, student behavior, and staff morale.

5. Connection over Correction: Rooted in the belief that relationships drive results, Jordan leads with care first—modeling the kind of compassion he hopes to see across his entire school.

Key Moments

03:48 Teaching Reevaluation and Improvement

07:16 Feedback Collection via Forms

11:23 "Embracing Leadership Beyond Bill"

14:35 Visible and Approachable Leadership

18:53 "Eagle Pride Embedded in Culture"

19:54 Student Spirit and Song Competition

24:10 Staffing Challenges and Team Building

28:11 Breaking Down Professional Silos

33:04 "Staff Gatherings: Morning Humor"

35:20 Playful Basketball Rivalry in School

37:02 "Kent City High School Invite"

43:00 "Journey of Authentic Educational Wins"

43:49 Building Strong School Culture

Connect with  Jordan Stuhan
Website: https://www.kentcityschools.org/highschool/principals-message/

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Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures, one meaningful win at a time.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures—one little win at a time.

From incorporating nature-based learning and place-based design, to fostering trust through deep community involvement, Jennifer shares the bold vision behind a school that puts joy, autonomy, and connection at the center of everything. Her reflections on what it takes to transform rural education, build a dream team, and reimagine childhood learning are honest, practical, and profoundly inspiring.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. Planning Year with Purpose: Jennifer spent a full year listening, learning, and building trust—through town halls, community visits, and deep partnership with families.
2. Culture Starts at the Interview: Hiring at the Academy isn’t just about credentials—it’s about heart, alignment, and the ability to dream big with kids at the center.
3. Joy Is the Blueprint: At Blanchard, joy isn’t a reward—it’s the strategy. Every learning experience is designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and connection.
4. From Arborist to Outdoor Classroom: A conversation about trees turned into plans for student-run farms, outdoor learning labs, and a campus that embraces nature.
5. “I See You” as Leadership Practice: Jennifer believes recognition is culture-building—and starts with simply acknowledging the people who show up every day.

Key Moments

03:12 Seminole Academy's Educational Impact

08:01 Visionary Leadership in Rural Education

10:03 "Collaborative Hiring and Leadership Approach"

12:59 "Overloaded Standards Undermine Learning"

18:10 Play-Based Learning Foundations

19:55 Innovative School Planning Challenges

22:59 "Cell Phones: School Life Impact"

28:53 Innovative Educational Planning Team

30:49 March Lottery for Student Enrollment

35:31 Finding Belonging in School

38:51 "Prioritize Soft Skills in Education"

41:16 Tree Management Partnership for Education

43:27 "Recognition and Validation"

Connect with Jennifer Rosenbloom

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-rosenbloom-b2a121341

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Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.

Sami shares how her team leads with connection, culture, and curiosity—from student-led school tours to jobs that give every child purpose and pride. You’ll hear how intentional hiring, high-fives in the hallway, and conscious discipline are shifting student behavior and building trust among teachers.

If you’re looking for practical, heart-filled leadership ideas that truly change the game, this episode is your blueprint.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. Photos in the Hallways, Names in the Air: Sami’s team ensures every student is seen literally by displaying their photos and greeting them by name before they even reach the classroom.
2. Jobs With Joy and Purpose: From watering office plants to leading assemblies, students apply for real jobs that give them leadership experience and a sense of ownership in their school.
3. The Parachute Team: A cross-functional group quietly surrounds new or vulnerable students with extra care and connection from day one.
4. Lead With Listening, Follow With Trust: Before officially stepping into her role, Sami met individually with every staff member to understand their hopes, ideas, and strengths.
5. Positive Notes as a Leadership Habit: Every week, her leadership team handwrites notes to teachers—starting the feedback loop with appreciation, not critique.

Timestamps:

03:56 "Books as Windows and Mirrors"

07:29 Bilingual Community Celebration Leadership

10:44 Cultural Learning Event for Schools

15:13 Pre-Role Engagement Insights

17:21 Weekly Positive Feedback Meetings

20:10 Assume Positive Intent in Feedback

25:16 Transient Student Support Strategies

28:19 Youth Engagement Eases Staff Burdens

31:46 Parachute Team Welcomes New Students

33:43 Conscious Discipline: Importance of Connection

35:58 Teacher's Growth Leads to Best Year

39:19 Adapting and Sharing Ideas

Connect with Samantha Sebestik

Website: https://www.rcs137.org/domain/74

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Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.

From revitalizing family engagement to empowering paraprofessionals and creating student-led initiatives that actually work, Alison opens up about the small moves that have made a huge difference. She shares stories of joy, intentionality, and community—all rooted in one powerful belief: it’s not about being the hero. It’s about building something that lasts.

Whether you’re leading a school, a district, or a hallway—this episode is packed with practical takeaways for creating a school culture where everyone belongs, and everyone leads.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. A Culture That Outlasts the Leader: Alison’s mission isn’t about being the center—it’s about building systems and community that thrive whether she’s there or not.
2. Everyone Has a Seat at the Table: From paraprofessionals to students, Alison creates structures that elevate every voice and make people feel truly seen and valued.
3. Start With Listening, End With Trust: Her approach to culture change begins with opening doors—literally—and inviting families, staff, and students into meaningful conversations.
4. Celebration as a Leadership Strategy: Staff meetings kick off with wins, not just updates—because recognition fuels resilience and relationships.
5. Students With Purpose: Through programs like PA Ambassadors and student jobs, kids aren’t just part of the system—they’re helping lead it.

Timestamps:

05:14 School Transformation and Community Dedication

07:33 "Reopening Doors Post-COVID"

10:44 Community Education Collaboration Success

14:54 "Relationships Before Scores"

16:35 New Leader's Successful Start

22:12 Core Values: Safety, Learning, Love

22:44 Staff Committees for School Growth

28:26 Reflecting on Education Changes

30:13 Counselors Navigate Student Needs

35:31 Teacher Pen Pals Enhance Connection

38:48 Perseverance in Adversity

39:23 "Million-Word Reader's Emotional Triumph"

42:55 "Building Inclusive School Communities"

Connect with Alison Canter

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-canter-349256147 

Website: https://www.lpssonline.com/schools/live-oak/

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Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.

Dr. Collier shares how he built what he calls his “Saginawesome” team, a group of diverse thinkers united by a shared purpose. He dives into the systems that make his leadership work: from clarity as a cultural value, to humble curiosity as a leadership superpower. With sharp reflections and zero ego, Dr. Collier reminds us that the best leadership isn’t loud, it’s deeply human.

Whether you’re leading a district, a building, or a team of one, this episode is packed with takeaways that will shift how you think about impact.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

1. “Saginawesome” Team Culture: Hiring divergent thinkers and building deep trust among leaders to create a dynamic, high-functioning team.

2. Clarity Is Kindness: Embracing transparency and clear expectations to reduce friction and strengthen relationships.

3. Service Is the Strategy: Saginaw ISD staff see themselves as a customer service organization, not just an educational system.

4. Borrow, Build, Share: Dr. Collier practices “admire and acquire,” learning from others and freely sharing what works in return.

5. Lead with Listening: Whether in staff meetings or strategic planning, asking powerful questions takes priority over having the right answers.

Timestamps:

05:12 Intangibles of Servant Leadership

07:20 Humbled by National Thought Leaders

10:01 "Embrace and Support Others"

15:25 Pragmatic Insights for Educational Leaders

16:16 Adapting Education for Future Needs

Connect with Dr. Jeffrey Collier

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-collier-ed-d-0192b6236

Website: https://www.sisd.cc/o/saginaw-isd/

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Alpaca Website: https://www.getalpaca.com/
Alpaca Resources Library: https://www.getalpaca.com/resources-library 

🧵 About the Podcast:

Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Alpaca for more conversations on building powerful school cultures.