Great Leaders = Great Schools

Ep 18: Goodness in Action: Newberry's Conversion Story

Host Jessica Chapman of the Florida Charter Institute welcomes Lacy Roberts and Derek Danne of Newberry Community School to Great Leaders = Great Schools for a conversation about their journey through the charter conversion process. A charter school conversion happens when an existing public school transitions into a charter school, gaining more flexibility in how it operates while still remaining a public school serving local students. In this episode, Lacy and Derek share what it’s like to be right in the middle of that process—guiding their school community through an important shift while staying grounded in local leadership, vision, and student needs. Opening in August 2026 in Newberry, Florida, Newberry Community School is an exciting example of how charter schools across the state are growing through innovation, collaboration, and a deep commitment to student success.

Ep 17: One Tank Trips & Transformational Leadership with Joseph Gatti and Nevin Seifert of Gulf Coast Academy of Science and Technology

New host Jessica Chapman sits down with Joseph Gatti and Nevin Seifert of Gulf Coast Academy of Science and Technology, an “A”-rated Florida charter school known for its hands-on, field-based learning. They share how staying true to their mission and leading with purpose has fueled lasting impact — proof that transformational leadership often happens close to home, on just one tank of gas.

Ep 16: The Goal Without a Plan is Just a Wish w/ Dr. Tom Miller of The Seaside School

Dr. Miller is a nationally recognized expert in charter school leadership, governance, and strategic planning, whose career epitomizes the relentless pursuit of excellence and impact. As the author of The Ten Indicators of High-Performing Charter Schools and a Global Gurus Top 30 Education Leader, Dr. Miller has spent over two decades helping schools build the governance and leadership capacity needed to thrive. nationwide. Currently, Tom serves as the Executive Director of The Seaside School, one of Florida’s first and most successful charter schools. In his role, Tom is leading a visionary $40 million campus expansion designed to deepen Seaside’s STEM programming, experiential learning, and dual enrollment partnerships. Tune in to hear how this Level 5 leader levels up! Learn more about The Seaside School (https://www.seasideschools.net/) or Leaders Building Leaders (https://www.leaders-building-leaders.com/).

Ep 15: It Starts with You with Johna Giordano of the Hollywood Academy of Arts & Science

Johna Giordano has been the principal of the Hollywood Academy of Arts & Science (HAAS) for the past four years yet has been with HAAS for nine years.Hollywood Academy of Arts & Science (HAAS) is committed to educational excellence every time. HAAS is relentless in pursuing excellence in visual and performing arts and STEM education for our growing leaders. Opened in 2004 with 400 students and now has grown to 1600 serving children K- 8. Learn how Johna leads with passion, enthusiasm, authenticity and selflessness. Tune in to hear how this Level 5 leader levels up! Learn more about Hollywood Academy of Arts & Science: https://www.hollywoodcharter.org/

Ep14: Making the Box Bigger with Jeff Skowronek of Pepin Academies

In this episode of Great Leaders, Great Schools, host Dana Vignale welcomes Jeff Skowronek, Executive Director of Pepin Academies, to discuss how this innovative charter school network empowers students with learning disabilities to thrive. Jeff shares his philosophy of "making the box bigger"—leveraging education, therapeutic services, and inclusive practices to meet students where they are and unlock their full potential. Learn how Pepin Academies' unique therapeutic educational model and transitional program prepare students not just for graduation, but for life. Jeff also reflects on his leadership journey, strategies for teacher retention, and the power of focusing on strengths rather than deficits. Whether you're an educator, school leader, or advocate for exceptional students, this inspiring conversation is packed with insights that challenge conventional thinking about education and inclusion.