Small Kids, Big Potential: A Conversation with Martin Silverman

In this episode of The School Collective, we sit down with retired principal and author Martin Silverman to explore why the earliest years of education can shape a child’s entire academic future. We discuss building a strong school culture, supporting teachers before burnout occurs, and shifting from a deficit mindset to a strengths-based view of young learners, especially in Pre-K and kindergarten.

Martin shares lessons from his decades of leadership experience, including what school leaders can do right now to build trust, empower teachers, and foster environments where children thrive through curiosity and connection. We even wrap up with a festive holiday roundtable featuring very important topics such as when to hang Christmas lights and the ethics of regifting.

Social Handles:

Christopher Ponce

• Instagram - @theschoolpsychguy
• LinkedIn - Christopher Ponce

Martin Silverman

• Instagram -@the5silvermans

Music by: J. Andrew Collins