Leading with Heart: How Principal Michael Conklin is Transforming a Small School Community

The Power of the Pause: Leading with Emotional Intelligence

In this episode of Principals of Change, host Michelle Dawn Mooney sits down with Marisol Lockhart, Principal of P.S. 110 in the South Bronx, to explore what it means to lead schools with both strength and heart. A Bronx native and graduate of Vassar College, Marisol has served NYC public schools for over two decades, bringing passion, emotional intelligence, and a deep commitment to community-centered leadership. She began her journey through the NYC Teaching Fellows Program and became a principal in perhaps one of the most challenging years for education—the 2019–2020 school year, right during the pandemic. Marisol is also a national presenter and coach on emotionally intelligent leadership, a member of the Gray and Cahn Fellowships, and just beginning her doctoral journey. She also recently co-presented at the New York State Women in Administration conference. --- Key Takeaways: Emotional Intelligence as a Core Leadership Strategy: the importance of self-awareness, vulnerability, and authenticity—especially post-pandemic—and how it allows leaders to foster trust, healing, and connection. The Power of the Pause: In leadership, a pause can create clarity, restore purpose, and reduce reactive decision-making in high-stakes environments. Culture-Building through Community Values: Through P.S. 110’s PRIDE framework (Perseverance, Respect, Imagination, Determination, Empowerment), Marisol has built a restorative, socially-emotional foundation that connects students, staff, and families.

The Importance of Relational Intelligence in School Administration

Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket is a wife, mother, principal, bestselling author, speaker, adjunct professor, and the 2025 President of the Maryland Association of Elementary School Principals. As the leader of a National Blue Ribbon School, she is recognized for her strong instructional leadership, her passion for equity and advocacy, and her ability to mentor the next generation of educators. Named one of the Top 100 Influencers in Education by District Administration magazine, Dr. Edoho-Eket’s leadership philosophy is rooted in relational intelligence—prioritizing authentic connections as the foundation for lasting school success. She's also the author of The Principal’s Journey and her newest release, Relational Intelligence: The Key to Exceptional School Leadership. We’re thrilled to welcome her today to talk about what it means to lead with purpose, build trust, and inspire transformation in schools

Innovation, Equity, and the Power of AI in Education

Principal Ashley Moore—known to many as Principal Mo—shares her leadership journey from special education teacher to transformational school leader. With over 15 years of experience, she unpacks how vulnerability, adaptability, and equity shape her approach to education. Principal Mo reflects on leading through the pandemic, building trust with staff, and why modeling imperfection is a strength. She highlights her school’s shift to all-honors middle school courses as a strategy for equity, and how integrating AI tools has improved teacher workload and classroom outcomes. Her focus: empowering both students and educators to thrive. Coming Soon: Principal Mo’s debut book on leadership and school transformation. Learn more at PrincipalMo.com [https://PrincipalMo.com]. Learn more: Visit smartpass.app [https://smartpass.app] to see how SmartPass improves student accountability and maximizes learning time

Leading with Heart: How Principal Michael Conklin is Transforming a Small School Community

In this episode, host Michelle Dawn Mooney speaks with Michael Conklin, Principal of Eldred Junior/Senior High School and a dedicated educator with over 14 years of experience, including roles in teaching, special education, and school leadership. As a “girl dad” of three and a passionate principal, Conklin discusses his holistic approach to leadership—balancing high expectations, mental health support, and student empowerment. He shares the importance of relationship-building, innovative programs like SmartPass and Hope Squad, and fostering a school environment where every student is known and supported.

Driving Change Beyond the Classroom

In this episode of the Principles of Change podcast, host Lee speaks with Ashley Harbel, an assistant principal at Timberlane Regional High School, about her journey in education, particularly her work in Holocaust and genocide education. Ashley shares her experiences teaching sensitive topics, the importance of student voice, and her efforts to implement restorative practices in her school. The conversation highlights the significance of personal connections in education and the role of technology in preserving survivor testimonies. Takeaways * Ashley Harbel's journey in education began with teaching the Diary of Anne Frank. * Teaching sensitive topics requires open communication with parents and students. * Personal connections, like survivor testimonies, enhance the learning experience. * Restorative practices focus on learning from mistakes rather than punishment. * Student voice is crucial for creating a positive school climate. * Technology can help preserve and share survivor stories. * Educators should continuously learn and grow to set an example for students. * Collaboration among teachers, students, and administration is key to effective change. * Empowering students leads to a stronger sense of community. * Holocaust and genocide education is essential for fostering understanding and empathy. Chapters 00:00: Introduction to Ashley Harbel and Her Journey 06:11: Navigating Sensitive Topics in Education 11:49: Transitioning from Classroom to Administration 17:51: Empowering Student Voices for Positive Change