In today’s episode, principal Equetta Jones talks with experts from the Lead IDEA Center about what it takes to lead schools where every student belongs—and succeeds. From preparation gaps and staffing shortages to shifting mindsets and building strong systems, this conversation offers insight and practical strategies you can put to work right away.

Dia Jackson, Ph.D., is a senior researcher at the American Institutes for Research and co-leads the knowledge development team at the Lead IDEA Center.

Dena Slanda, Ph.D., is a senior TA consultant at the American Institutes for Research, and serves as intensive technical assistance lead at the Lead IDEA Center.

Equetta Jones is principal of Lovecreek Elementary School in Lewes, Delaware, and moderator for NAESP's Early Career Principal Community of Practice.

Principals know there are no guarantees that any initiative, improvement plan, or new idea will be successful at their school. How do we convince stakeholders—and just as importantly ourselves—that these ideas are worth pursuing? We sat down with Philadelphia principal Tim Boyle to discuss how to navigate ambiguity and improve what matters at your school.

Tim Boyle is principal of Science Leadership Academy Middle School (SLAMS) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Liz Garden is principal of Henry P. Clough Elementary school in Mendon Massachusetts, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.

Scott McLeod is professor of educational leadership at the University of Colorado, Denver, and a fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.

Most school leaders will be familiar with PBL. But for principal Amy McElroy PBL means Problem-Based—not Project-Based—Learning. We discuss what the differences are and what it means for her school, and how this approach impacts her student's engagement and overall success.

Amie McElroy is elementary school director at STEM School in Highlands Ranch, Colorado.

Liz Garden is principal of Henry P. Clough Elementary school in Mendon Massachusetts, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.

Scott McLeod is professor of educational leadership at the University of Colorado, Denver, and a fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.