Ready to shift your focus from reaction and remedy to the ultimate goal: prevention? Title IX excellence is defined not by how you handle complaints, but by actively fostering a school climate that eliminates sex discrimination from the outset. We challenge leaders to move beyond basic policy and implement genuine, proactive strategies. Discover the power of anonymous school climate surveys to identify "hot spots" and target interventions, the necessity of elevating student leadership and voice to co-create solutions, and the impact of curriculum integration of lessons on respect, boundaries, and affirmative consent. Prevention is ongoing, intentional work that requires data and engagement. By focusing on culture, you create a safe, equitable, and thriving educational experience for every student. True success is defined by the healthy environment you build that prevents fires from starting. Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.

How do you maintain Title IX compliance while fully upholding the rights of students protected under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)? This episode tackles the crucial, complex intersection of these two legal frameworks. School leaders must prioritize conducting a Manifestation Determination Meeting (MDM) before imposing disciplinary sanctions on any student with a disability to ensure the preservation of their Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). We emphasize that the goal is not choosing one law over the other, but ensuring equitable education through rigorous procedural due process. Discover why seamless collaboration between your Title IX coordinator, special education director, and legal counsel is absolutely essential, especially when reviewing supportive measures to avoid inadvertently denying FAPE. Embrace these legal complexities as opportunities to demonstrate excellence and a commitment to equity in your school system. Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.

Today, we tackle the most high-stakes administrative role in the Title IX process: the Decision-Maker. This role requires unwavering objectivity and a deep understanding of due process to ensure fairness for all. We unpack the critical K-12 standard of evidence—the preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not, or $>50\%$ likelihood)—and how your team must be trained to apply it objectively. We provide three procedural safeguards you must mandate to ensure legally sound and ethically responsible final determinations: mandatory training on the preponderance standard, a strict written rationale requirement detailing exactly how evidence led to the conclusion, and the strict exclusion of improper character evidence (unless directly relevant to motive or intent). Procedural rigor is the ultimate guarantee of fairness. Insisting on clear standards and detailed written rationales protects the due process rights of every person involved and builds a system rooted in integrity. Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.

Are you clear on the difference between supportive measures and disciplinary action in Title IX cases? Today, we focus on the most immediate and powerful tool in your administrative toolkit: supportive measures. These are individualized, non-punitive services designed to restore or preserve equal access to education for all parties, often serving as the crucial first intervention. Learn the high-impact strategies you can implement right away, including the creation of clear no-contact orders (NCOs), practical academic and schedule modifications (like class or transportation route adjustments), and the proactive offering of counseling and mental health referrals. Mastering these compassionate, human-centered responses is key to effective, compliant, and swift action that builds deep student trust. Remember: supportive measures must be offered to both the complainant and the respondent, ensuring safety and equity are your immediate non-negotiable priorities. Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.

Are you an administrative leader who feels daunted by Title IX compliance? This episode flips the script, reframing this challenging area not as a source of liability, but as a crucial opportunity to build the strongest, most equitable administrative foundation possible. Tune in for the core mandate and discover the essential first steps for administrative readiness. We dive into the critical need for specialized, role-specific training for all administrators, the non-negotiable importance of meticulous documentation for procedural fairness, and the power of cross-functional policy frameworks that align Title IX with all other student and special education policies. Mastering these proactive systems is the key to minimizing risk and maximizing student trust. Your leadership focus on proactive investment truly pays off, creating a legacy of equity and trust in your school. Don't just manage risk—build a more just and welcoming educational environment. Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.

The most powerful tool for improving school climate might be the simplest one: the intentional greeting. In this highly practical episode of Your Morning Boost, we dive into the transformative power of using a student’s name, making eye contact, and offering genuine acknowledgment. Drawing on key insights from Erin King's work, we explain how this consistent act of connection significantly impacts emotional regulation and fosters a profound sense of belonging and safety for every learner. Key Actionable Takeaways:

• Emotional Regulation Boost: Learn how personal acknowledgment reduces student anxiety and increases enthusiasm for learning.
• Universal Buy-In: Why visible leadership and training all staff are critical to amplify the impact across the entire school.
• Resilient Culture: Discover how consistent connection acts as the "glue" that builds a resilient web of support and trust, transforming your school culture.

Ready to build the foundational rapport that drives student success? Subscribe and listen now to start leveraging the magic that lives in the simplest acts of human connection! Reference Article: This discussion is informed by Erin King's work on connection in schools: https://www.awbeducation.org/general-resources/erin-king/thepowerofasimplegreeting Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.

Is Social Emotional Learning (SEL) just a "nice-to-have"? Absolutely not! In this data-driven episode of Your Morning Boost, we dive into new evidence confirming SEL is a must-have academic strategy that yields significant, measurable gains. We discuss key takeaways from EdSurge, which show a strong positive correlation between effective SEL integration and improved test scores, better attendance, and reduced disciplinary incidents. SEL is not a sidebar—it's the accelerant for all learning. Key Actionable Takeaways:

• Staff First: Implement SEL check-ins and emotional regulation techniques right into your faculty meetings to model the competencies.
• Deep Integration: Treat SEL as an essential lens through which all content is taught (e.g., conflict resolution through historical debates).
• Data-Driven Accountability: Move SEL from abstract feeling to concrete evaluation using tools that track self-reporting, referrals, and collaborative problem-solving.

Ready to move beyond belief and into measurable success? Subscribe and listen now to learn how to transform SEL into a data-driven, integrated practice that directly boosts your school's report card! Reference Article: This discussion is informed by new data connecting SEL and academic gains: https://www.edsurge.com/news/2025-10-30-social-emotional-learning-can-boost-student-achievement-new-data-says-by-how-much Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.

Stop believing success is solely about raw talent or inherited IQ. In this empowering episode of Your Morning Boost, we dive into the science of achievement, focusing on two learnable traits that truly differentiate high performers: grit and curiosity. School leaders, this is your blueprint for transforming potential into performance! We explore how to cultivate these traits across your entire school culture, emphasizing the need to normalize productive struggle and reframe failure as essential feedback.   Key Takeaways You'll Get:

• Learn why modeling persistence is the most crucial leadership tool you possess.
• Strategies for fostering curiosity through powerful, open-ended, inquiry-based learning.
• How to design environments that encourage these traits, creating a powerful culture of lifelong learning and achievement.

Ready to build a school culture where everyone knows they can grow? Subscribe and listen now to start your shift from a fixed mindset to an infinite possibility! Reference Article: This discussion references key insights on achievement from this article: https://www.upworthy.com/not-brains-or-talent-expert-says-high-achievers-have-two-traits-anyone-can-learn Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.

The rise in K-12 student homelessness is alarming, and school leaders cannot afford to wait. In this urgent episode of Your Morning Boost, we dive into the necessity of implementing strategic measures to support our most vulnerable learners. Your school can be the primary source of stability and equity they desperately need. We explain the critical components of the McKinney-Vento Act and why every staff member must be trained to identify signs of housing instability with dignity and respect.   Key Takeaways You'll Get:

• Proactive Identification: The vital role of training all school staff to recognize and respond to housing instability.  
• Community Power: How to build essential partnerships to provide continuity of services and support beyond the school walls.  
• Academic Success: Why investing in a student's stability is a direct investment in their academic performance and future.  

We cannot wait for stability to come to them—we must deliver it. Listen now to get the blueprint for effective, compassionate support and ensure no student's education is lost to housing instability. Reference Article: This discussion is informed by the growing crisis detailed here: https://www.the74million.org/1-3-million-homeless-students-new-federal-data-show-a-70-percent-jump-in-k-12-homelessness-over-past-decade-with-big-implications-for-academic-performance/ Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.

Are you just counting down the days until winter break, or are you actively building energy to carry your staff through it?In this episode of Control Shift Lead, we are joined by Jim Dutrow, Principal of Lake Ridge Middle School in Prince William County. Together, we explore how to shift the December mindset from "survival mode" to "thriving mode." We discuss the power of being mentally present at student performances, how to turn simple visibility into deep community connections, and creative ways to combat chronic absenteeism among both students and staff.Key Takeaways:

• Control: How to be truly present and visible during the busy holiday arts season.
• Shift: Fun, actionable strategies to boost staff morale, including "Wheel of Names" giveaways and the "Snowflake in Your Pocket" game.
• Lead: Building tangible support systems, such as school-based food pantries, to help families navigate holiday stressors.

Don't miss these practical tips to keep the "Pack Mentality" strong in your building!

Subscribe and share this episode to help other leaders shift their thinking!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.

Stop viewing your employment contract as just legal jargon. In this essential episode of Your Morning Boost, we dive deep into how strategically understanding and leveraging your contractual benefits—from time-off provisions to professional development and liability protection—is the most powerful tool for boosting leader retention and avoiding burnout. We discuss key takeaways from the AASA Superintendent's Salary and Benefits Study, highlighting why a well-designed contract is a comprehensive framework for stability and growth, not just a salary number. Learn why prioritizing your well-being isn't a perk, it's a necessity for modeling long-term, effective leadership. Key Takeaways:

• Implement mandatory mental health days to ensure leaders recharge.
• Maximize PD funding as an essential investment in your team’s capacity (e.g., trauma-informed leadership certification).
• Understand your liability and severance clauses as your crucial security blanket for making bold, necessary decisions.

Ready to lead with peace of mind? Subscribe and listen now to start leveraging your contract as a strategic tool for professional commitment and sustained success! Further Reading: We reference the AASA Superintendent's Salary and Benefits Study: https://www.aasa.org/resources/resource/contractual-benefits. Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.

As we head into a much-deserved break, we're bringing you a special bonus listen! We pause our usual actionable advice for a moment of deep reflection on why the simple act of gratitude is the single most powerful, yet often overlooked, tool for strengthening your team and restoring your own energy. This episode is a vital conversation about viewing appreciation not just as a kindness, but as a strategic daily practice. Learn the difference between fleeting, generic thanks and specific, memorable acknowledgment, and how these small acts can transform a job into a mission. We discuss tangible steps, like the power of a handwritten note, and why the most critical person to thank is often yourself. As educator leaders, resilience is key—and as Brene Brown reminds us, "Joy collected over time fuels resilience." Gratitude is how we collect that joy. Take this holiday to recharge and return knowing the tremendous value you bring is deeply appreciated.

Enjoy this bonus episode from a different show! Visit awbeducation.org for more resources and grundmeyerleadersearch.com for opportunities.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.

The reality of tighter budgets and impending cuts is top of mind for educators everywhere. 📉 This episode tackles the crucial puzzle: How do we maintain excellence and avoid increasing teacher workload when facing financial constraints? We explore three actionable strategies focused on operational efficiency that should be prioritized before touching the classroom. Learn why advocating for utility and energy audits (like switching to LED or smart thermostats) provides a continuous, high return on investment. We also discuss the value of centralizing and streamlining purchasing to eliminate "use it or lose it" spending, and the significant savings found in evaluating and eliminating software licensing redundancy. As financial constraints force us to be creative problem-solvers, this strategic thinking ensures every dollar saved goes right back to the core mission: supporting student success. Listen to become a more effective advocate for smart, less disruptive budget management! Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.

Starting your week with a tough question from the mailbag: How do you handle parent meetings that feel consistently defensive or hostile? 🥊 We dive into actionable strategies to shift the dynamic from adversarial to collaborative, ensuring student success remains the shared goal. The key is leading with empathy and finding the source of the parent's frustration, which often isn't personal. Learn how to immediately disarm tension by explicitly stating a common objective and focusing conversations strictly on observable behavior, not interpretation or judgment. We discuss the powerful technique of using the "power of pause" from conflict resolution training to de-escalate heated moments. These difficult conversations are your greatest opportunity to model professionalism and achieve a collaborative breakthrough. Listen for personal strategies to master difficult conversations!  Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.

It's the final episode of our American Education Week series! Join us as we wrap up our five-question conversation with Dr. Lisa Hill, host of Vice Principal Unofficed and leader at Valley Southwoods. Dr. Hill answers the crucial question for every aspiring leader: If you could gather one piece of evidence right now for your future principal interview portfolio, what should it be? Discover how to select an initiative—like PBIS, PLC work, or a grading project—that clearly demonstrates collaboration, data-driven decision-making, strong relationships, and a student focus. Dr. Hill offers concrete examples and explains how to powerfully tell the story of your impact, growth, and even failure. This episode emphasizes the value of mentorship, networking, and taking calculated risks on your leadership journey. Find Dr. Hill at $\texttt{viceprincipalonoffice.com}$ to leave a message or connect. ACTION STEP: Amplify your day and keep boosting your impact by subscribing! Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.

Feeling consumed by discipline? It’s time to shift your focus! Join us as we welcome back Dr. Lisa Hill, host of the biweekly podcast Vice Principal Unofficed, to explore how assistant principals can move beyond crisis management to become true instructional leaders. Dr. Hill shares real-world stories and practical strategies for protecting vital coaching time, supporting teachers, and boosting student achievement. This episode is packed with value, including a simple scheduling hack (fill and share your calendar to protect PLCs and observations), effective delegation strategies for office staff and aspiring leaders, and the value of consistent systems like PBIS. Learn to partner with your teachers and principal to prioritize instruction and elevate student success! ACTION STEP: Amplify your day and keep boosting your impact by subscribing! Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.

During National Education Week's Support Professionals Day, discover the profound impact of recognizing the essential staff who keep our schools running—custodians, secretaries, aides, cooks, and more. Your Morning Boost welcomes Dr. Lisa Hill, host of Vice Principal Unofficed, to discuss practical, non-monetary strategies for administrators and assistant principals to meaningfully honor these vital team members. Dr. Hill shares actionable tips like learning names, greeting staff, working alongside them, and modeling everyday kindness. Listen to take away short, high-impact techniques to build loyalty, strengthen your school culture, and ensure every adult remains focused on students. ACTION STEP: Amplify your day and keep boosting your impact by subscribing! Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.

Is talking to parents about discipline a challenge? During American Education Week's Family Day, Your Morning Boost welcomes back Dr. Lisa Hill, host of the Vice Principal Unofficed podcast, to share essential strategies for assistant principals. This episode focuses on pivoting difficult, disciplinary conversations with parents into productive, long-term partnerships built on mutual respect. Dr. Hill discusses the power of empathy, finding common ground, communicating the "why," and keeping interactions calm and solution-focused. You'll gain practical techniques for de-escalation, validating parents’ emotions, and utilizing a team approach. Discover the simple, powerful question, "How are you doing?" to rebuild trust and foster collaboration. ACTION STEP: Amplify your day and keep boosting your impact by subscribing! Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.

Are you stepping into a new administrative role? Don't make the biggest mistake most assistant principals make: rushing to implement flashy solutions before understanding the school's heart. Join Your Morning Boost as we kick off American Education Week with special guest Dr. Lisa Hill, host of the Vice Principal Unofficed podcast. With 39 years in education, Dr. Hill shares invaluable insights on building trust and setting clear expectations with a new principal. She reveals why slowing down, gathering voices, and identifying high-impact areas are critical for success. This episode centers on the first of a five-day 'five questions' series focused on the vice principal role. Get practical leadership takeaways, real-school anecdotes, and guidance for APs aiming to grow into visionary leaders, plus a lighthearted teaser for upcoming episodes! ACTION STEP: Amplify your day and keep boosting your impact by subscribing! Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.

The Ultimate Guide to Bridge-Building: Why Relationships are the Work! We wrap up our impactful week with Shannon Watson, Founder and Executive Director of Majority in the Middle (majoritymiddle.org). In this final segment, Shannon shares her deep experience leading successful bipartisan efforts, emphasizing why kindness and finding common ground are non-negotiable for navigating division in school leadership. Discover practical, low-effort tactics busy administrators can incorporate daily—like informal hallway check-ins—to make civil engagement a long-term priority, not just a crisis response. Learn why staying in relationship, practicing patience, and consistently modeling respectful behavior is the most powerful way to positively influence your school community. Action Item: Make relationship-building your top priority! Subscribe, share this powerful message, and visit awbeducation.org and grundmeyerleadersearch.com for more resources on sustaining leadership impact. Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-edify-network-insights-for-every-education-stakeholder--6630377/support.

Thank You for Listening!This has been an episode from The Edify Network—Where the Whole Education Community Listens and Learns. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?

• Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
• Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
• Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the Edify family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, and Your Morning Boost.
• Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org or find us on social media using the tag #theedifynetwork.

Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The Edify Network.



This episode includes AI-generated content.