Principals of Change

In this episode of Principals of Change, host Michelle Dawn Mooney sits down with Marisol Lockhart, Principal of P.S. 110 in the South Bronx, to explore what it means to lead schools with both strength and heart. A Bronx native and graduate of Vassar College, Marisol has served NYC public schools for over two decades, bringing passion, emotional intelligence, and a deep commitment to community-cen...

Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket is a wife, mother, principal, bestselling author, speaker, adjunct professor, and the 2025 President of the Maryland Association of Elementary School Principals. As the leader of a National Blue Ribbon School, she is recognized for her strong instructional leadership, her passion for equity and advocacy, and her ability to mentor the next generation of educators. Named one of...

Principal Ashley Moore—known to many as Principal Mo—shares her leadership journey from special education teacher to transformational school leader. With over 15 years of experience, she unpacks how vulnerability, adaptability, and equity shape her approach to education. Principal Mo reflects on leading through the pandemic, building trust with staff, and why modeling imperfection is a strength. S...

In this episode, host Michelle Dawn Mooney speaks with Michael Conklin, Principal of Eldred Junior/Senior High School and a dedicated educator with over 14 years of experience, including roles in teaching, special education, and school leadership. As a “girl dad” of three and a passionate principal, Conklin discusses his holistic approach to leadership—balancing high expectations, mental health su...

In this episode of the Principles of Change podcast, host Lee speaks with Ashley Harbel, an assistant principal at Timberlane Regional High School, about her journey in education, particularly her work in Holocaust and genocide education. Ashley shares her experiences teaching sensitive topics, the importance of student voice, and her efforts to implement restorative practices in her school. The c...

In this episode of Principles of Change, host Lee speaks with Dan Harding, the principal of Kent Island High School, about his journey from special education teacher to principal. They discuss the importance of fostering a diverse range of extracurricular activities, the implementation of an innovative advisory program, and the significance of cultivating lifelong learners in the school community....

In this episode of Principles of Change, host Lee and guest Britt White discuss the insights gathered from over 100 principals regarding their experiences and challenges in school leadership. They emphasize the importance of parent-principal partnerships, the balancing act of addressing individual student needs while considering the entire school community, and the evolving role of principals in m...

Lee speaks with Douglas Weatherholt, principal of Lakeside High School in OH, about innovative educational practices and leadership strategies. They discuss the introduction of a drone technology class and other unique programs aimed at engaging students and preparing them for future careers. Douglas emphasizes the importance of intentional leadership, professional development, and embracing techn...

In this episode of the Principles of Change podcast, host Lee speaks with Kristin Kaufman, an assistant principal at Milford High School, about her journey from journalism to education leadership. They discuss the challenges of balancing work and personal life, the importance of mental health support for students, and innovative strategies for fostering a positive school environment. Kristin share...

We’re joined by Derek Stampone, an Assistant Principal at the High School of Fashion Industries, right in the heart of New York City’s Garment District. Derek helps lead a dynamic school of over 1,600 students in a unique setting—a 10-story building where students major in everything from Fashion Design to Software Development. Today, we’ll chat about how he’s navigating leadership in such a creat...

We’re joined by Bryant Bednarek, principal of Berlin High School in Wisconsin and a proud 2003 graduate of the same school. Bryant’s deep connection to Berlin and his passion for maintaining both its strong traditions and its forward-looking vision make him the perfect leader to guide the school into the future. Berlin High School prides itself on excellence—whether it’s their pristine facilities,...

Introducing Principals of Change , a podcast where we dive into the stories of K-12 school principals and assistant principals from across the country! We'll be exploring their journey, their challenges, and the game-changing moves they’re making to transform education. Whether you’re an educator, an administrator, or just passionate about the future of learning, this is the place for you. Each ep...