In this episode, host Karen Borchert sits down with Frank Macri, Superintendent of Voorheesville Central School District in upstate New York, a small, tight-knit community that “bleeds purple and gold” and treats the school as its gathering place.
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:
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.
In this episode, host Karen Borchert sits down with Dr. Andy Crozier, Superintendent of Central Lee Community School District in rural southeast Iowa, a district where homegrown pride meets award-winning culture.
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:
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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🧵 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.
In this episode, host Karen Borchert sits down with Dr. Adam Magliari, Superintendent of Mediapolis Community School District in southeast Iowa — a rural district of just under 1,000 students, where pride runs deep and connection fuels everything.
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:
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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🧵 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.
In this episode of Little Wins, host Karen Borchert sits down with Matt Smith, Principal of Kiski Area Senior High School in Pennsylvania, a hometown leader proving that joy and connection can transform school culture.
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:
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.
In this episode of Little Wins, host Karen Borchert sits down with Chris Smith, Superintendent of Ellicott School District 22 in Calhan, Colorado. Nestled under the shadow of Pikes Peak, Ellicott is a rural district where Chris’s leadership story comes full circle—he’s not just the superintendent, but also a proud graduate, former teacher, and lifelong community member.
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:
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.
In this episode of Little Wins, host Karen Borchert sits down with Dr. Ricky Stephens, Superintendent of Keene Independent School District in Keene, Texas, a small district doing big things through culture, character, and connection.
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.
In this episode of Little Wins, host Karen Borchert sits down with Maria Libby, Superintendent of Five Town CSD and MSAD 28 in Camden, Maine. With a background that spans teaching, environmental advocacy, outdoor education, and now district leadership, Maria brings a rare blend of curiosity, compassion, and courage to her work.
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:
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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🧵 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 this episode of Little Wins, Karen Borchert sits down with Troy Hopkins, superintendent of North Stonington Public Schools in North Stonington, Connecticut. In a small district with just two buildings and 750 students, Troy leads with heart, humor, and a clear belief that culture, risk-taking, and visibility are the work.
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:
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.
In this episode of Little Wins, host Karen Borchert sits down with Dr. Jessica Sonntag, Superintendent at Hinckley-Big Rock CUSD #429 in Illinois. Leading a small, close-knit district with deep community roots, Dr. Sonntag shares how intentional choices, calming spaces, personalized support for staff, and a bold “phones away, bell-to-bell” policy are restoring attention, dignity, and joy to learning.
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:
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 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 this episode of Little Wins, host Karen Borchert sits down with Grant W. Gellert, Assistant Principal at MaST Community Charter School in Philadelphia. With nearly two decades at MaST, beginning as an English teacher and now leading the high school. Grant shares how deep roots and responsive leadership shape a culture where students and teachers thrive.
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:
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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🧵 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 this episode of Little Wins, Karen Borchert sits down with Dr. Jeremy Davidson, Superintendent of Elsberry R-II School District in rural Missouri. Leading a district of just over 800 students, Jeremy brings a steady and deeply relational approach to leadership, where visibility, respect, and care are non-negotiables.
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:
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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🧵 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 this episode of Little Wins, Karen Borchert sits down with Dr. Albert Lee Byrom, superintendent of Poth ISD in rural Texas. A former San Antonio police officer turned educator, Dr. Byrom brings a servant-leadership mindset to his district of fewer than 1,000 students. His journey from patrol car to principal to superintendent is grounded in one belief: visibility, empowerment, and trust are the keys to lasting culture.
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:
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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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 this episode of Little Wins, Karen Borchert sits down with Dr. Nick Fitzgerald, superintendent of Canajoharie Central School District in upstate New York. As just the sixth superintendent in the last hundred years, Nick leads a small rural district with a deep sense of tradition and an equally bold vision for the future.
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:
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.
In this episode of Little Wins, Karen Borchert sits down with Sarah Harless, principal of Bear Lake School in Michigan, where the entire K–12 community is housed under one roof. With 24 years of experience at Bear Lake—serving in roles from Title I aide to teacher to principal—Sarah brings a rare depth of perspective on what it takes to cultivate trust, resilience, and respect in a small but mighty school.
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:
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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🧵 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 this episode of Little Wins, host Karen Borchert sits down with Evan Hecker, principal and culture-builder, to talk about the power of relationships, visibility, and gratitude in leadership. Evan shares how he’s made trust the foundation of his work, why celebrating small successes fuels momentum, and how giving both students and teachers a voice leads to lasting change.
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
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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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, 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 this episode of Little Wins, we meet Dr. Vito Perrone, superintendent of five small, distinct school districts in Western Massachusetts. In his first year at the helm of this uniquely complex and collaborative setup, Dr. Perrone brought a clear focus on people-first leadership, relationship-building, and transparent communication.
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:
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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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, 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 this episode of Little Wins, Karen Borchert sits down with Jordan Stuhan, a principal who leads with humility, intentionality, and a fierce belief in people over performance. From his very first day on the job, Jordan flipped the traditional playbook—choosing to listen, observe, and connect before making any sweeping changes.
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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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, 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 this episode of Little Wins, host Karen Borchert sits down with Jennifer Rosenblum, the founding Head of School at the Academy of Blanchard, part of the Academies of Oklahoma. Jennifer is doing something rare and powerful: building a school—and its culture—from the ground up.
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:
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
Follow Us
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.
In this episode of Little Wins, host Karen Borchert sits down with Samantha Sebestik, principal of Pleasant Acres Elementary in Rantoul, Illinois—a school where joy, equity, and student empowerment aren’t buzzwords, they’re everyday practices.
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:
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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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.
What does it take to lead with trust, transform a district, and ensure a legacy that isn’t about you—but about everyone? In this inspiring episode of Little Wins, Karen Borchert sits down with Alison Canter, Director of Student Services at Charleston CUSD #1, who believes school culture isn’t built with slogans—it’s built in the everyday work of connection, ownership, and shared leadership.
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:
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/
Follow Us
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.