Linking Leaders PodCASt

In this episode of the Linking Leaders PodCASt, we sit down with Diurca Lugo-Tomasella, the 2026 Connecticut Elementary School Principal of the Year, to unpack how she has built a dual language school where identity, biliteracy, and high expectations live side by side. We talk culture systems, family partnership, teacher leadership, and the habits that help principals carry the weight of the work...

In this episode of the Linking Leaders PodCASt, Dr. Alicia Bowman sits down with Dr. Dana Mulligan, 2026 Connecticut High School Assistant Principal of the Year, to explore what it means to lead with heart, humility, and a "we're all in this together" mindset. From building a family-centered school culture through daily advisory to making tough decisions guided by “what would I want...

In this episode of Linking Leaders, Dr. Alicia Bowman sits down with 2026 Connecticut High School Principal of the Year, Anthony “T.J.” Salutari, for a candid and energizing conversation about his experiences leading Daniel Hand High School in Madison. From an unexpected nudge into the principalship to over two decades of educational leadership, T.J. shares how he’s learned to adapt his leadership...

Our newest podcast episode features guest Mark Summa, assistant principal of Avon Middle School and Connecticut's 2026 Middle School Assistant Principal of the Year. Mark shares how small, intentional leadership moves—rooted in safety, love, and high expectations—shape school culture and student belonging in the middle grades. The conversation offers concrete insights on leading at scale whil...

When you step inside Skinner Road School in Vernon, you know immediately that it is a special place. Almost palpable are the sense of belonging, the joy of learning, and the unmistakable energy of a community that believes in its children. At the center of it all stands Principal Bryan Kerachsky, the 2025 Elementary School Principal of the Year. In this conversation, Bryan shares how his school tu...

What if a middle school could flip its story—from under-performing to excelling? We sit down with Dr. Damon Lewis, principal of Norwalk's Ponus Ridge STEAM Academy and National Middle School Principal of the Year, to unpack the deliberate moves behind his school's rise: mantras that drive action, systems that respect time, and core values that shape decisions, strengthen trust, and keep...

What makes an award-winning elementary school? For Melissa Mucci, Principal of Somers Elementary School, it comes down to a powerful motto: "We're a family and we're a tree." This guiding philosophy has earned her school the Connecticut Association of Schools 2025 Elementary School of the Year award. In this candid conversation, Melissa talks about how SES rebounded from a year...

What does it take to lead a school to award-winning excellence? For Emma Balter, Principal of Six to Six Magnet School, the journey began after 29 years in the classroom when she unexpectedly stepped into administration. Now, as leader of Connecticut's 2025 Middle School of the Year, she shares the leadership strategies that transformed her school community. Six to Six Magnet School embodies...

What happens when three award-winning assistant principals gather to share their leadership journeys? A powerful conversation about authenticity, vulnerability, and the transformative impact of being oneself in a leadership role. The 2025 Connecticut Association of Schools Assistant Principals of the Year – Laura Dixon from John Barry Elementary School; Marco Tirillo from John Wallace Middle Schoo...

Margot Martello's leadership at Mabelle B. Avery Middle School embodies a commitment to inclusivity and community engagement. A humble, compassionate leader who is always looking for new ways to learn and grow, Margot talks about her school's successful diversity efforts, the Operation Parent Handbook, and the tradition of annual themes, which helps unify the school community through ser...

Explore the dynamic leadership approaches of Jeannine Enamait, principal of Natchaug Elementary School, as she discusses creating joy in education, fostering diversity, and prioritizing continuous professional learning. Her insights underscore the importance of supporting the whole child and engaging families to cultivate a thriving school community. Listen up as Jeannine talks about: • creating a...

What makes a truly effective leader in the world of education? Join us for an engaging conversation with Kurt Ogren, principal of Woodland Regional High School and 2024 High School Principal of the Year, as he shares his insights on what it takes to foster a thriving school community. Kurt opens up about the power of collaboration, positivity, and diverse perspectives in leadership, revealing how...

Discover the secrets behind building an inclusive and supportive school community from none other than Scott Jeffrey, the 2024 Connecticut Association of Schools Elementary Principal of the Year. Scott’s leadership journey at Highland Elementary School is nothing short of inspiring, and he shares the strategies that have made a profound impact on his students and staff. From fostering strong relat...

Discover the transformative power of educational leadership with Dr. Kristy Zaleta, the 2024 Connecticut Association of Schools Middle School Principal of the Year. Join us as Dr. Zaleta opens up about her leadership journey at Rogers Park Middle School, where honesty, vulnerability, and transparency have been pivotal in building trust and credibility. Learn her strategies for fostering leadership...

Ever wondered what it takes to be a school leader who truly connects with students and staff? Join us as we chat with Jarrid Clifton, the newly crowned 2024 CAS Middle Level Assistant Principal of the Year. Jarrid, the associate principal of Timothy Edwards Middle School in South Windsor, shares his distinct approach to leadership—one that centers around listening, valuing feedback, and building s...

In Episode 8 of the Linking Leaders PodCASt, host Dr. Alicia Bowman chats with Dr. Lisa Romano, principal of Maple Hill Elementary School and winner of the 2023 William Cieslukowski Outstanding First-Year Elementary Principal Award.  Discover the hallmarks of Dr. Romano's leadership success, which include maintaining a positive narrative, valuing each individual's contribution, and celeb...

Join me, Dr. Alicia Bowman, as we chat with Paul Lucke, assistant principal of Seymour High School and the 2024 Connecticut Association of Schools High School Assistant Principal of the Year. Our enlightening conversation takes us from the halls of Seymour HS to the broader landscape of educational innovation. Paul shares his methods for self-improvement and staying ahead of educational trends to...

In Episode 6 of the Linking Leaders PodCASt, host Dr. Alicia Bowman chats with Nicole Vibert, assistant principal of West Woods Upper Elementary School in Farmington and 2024 Elementary School Assistant Principal of the Year.  Listen up as Nicole shares insights on trust-building, student engagement, and the delicate art of juggling work and family.  She also explores the complexities of the role...

In Episode 5 of the Linking Leaders PodCASt,  we chat with Dr. Keshia Smith-Davis, principal of Great Plain Elementary School in Danbury and 2023 Connecticut Elementary School Principal of the Year.  Listen up as Dr. Smith-Davis talks about how flexibility, transparency, and a commitment to continuous growth have helped drive her success. 

Listen up as we chat with CT's 2023 High School Assistant Principal of the Year, Dr. Carolyn Gbunblee. Associate principal of Valley Regional High School in Deep River for the past  seven years,  Carolyn shares invaluable insights on maintaining equanimity, fostering kindness, and finding joy in the work. 

Ever wonder what makes a truly transformative leader? Meet Rachael Caggiano, winner of the 2023 CAS Middle School Principal of the Year Award, whose unique journey into the world of educational leadership is a story of dedication, open-heartedness, and a bold commitment to inclusivity. Listen to Rachael unravel her journey from being a special education teacher to becoming the principal of Derby M...

Ever wonder what it takes to be an effective leader? Kristen St. Germain, the principal of Wheeler Middle/High School in North Stonington, CT, offers invaluable insights on our latest Linking Leaders podcast. Kristen believes patience, understanding, visibility, and a positive mindset are the hallmarks of effective leadership. She shares her unique growth strategies, emphasizing the importance of...