In this episode of The Superintendent Effect, Anne Brown talks with Dr. Sharon Pepukayi, superintendent of Talbot County Public Schools in Maryland, about leadership, school culture, mental health, and preparing students for a rapidly changing world.

Dr. Pepukayi discusses her path from classroom teacher to superintendent, the mentors who shaped her career, and her district’s strategic plan—Align by 2029—focused on academic growth, staffing, community engagement, and student wellbeing.

You’ll hear insights on:• Strengthening mental health and wellness for staff and students• Building student advisory groups and elevating student voice• Preventing educator burnout• Supporting families with accessible resources• Creating future-ready pathways: career, college, and life• Using human connection as the foundation of strong schools

This episode is ideal for:• Superintendents• Principals & district leaders• Teachers• Education advocates• Parents invested in student wellbeing

Keywords: superintendent leadership, school culture, mental health in education, educator wellness, rural school districts, Talbot County Public Schools, student advisory groups, strategic planning in schools, family engagement, principal leadership