Welcome to Teach-Lead-Innovate! On this week’s Walk-the-Talk Wednesday, we’re exploring leading with empathy, a transformative leadership behavior that builds trust, fosters connection, and inspires positive change.

• Why Empathy Matters: Learn why empathy is a cornerstone of effective leadership.
• Real-World Examples: Discover how leaders at Mark Anthony Middle School, Douglas High School, and Jefferson Elementary are using empathy to make a difference.
• Benefits of Empathy: Explore research-backed advantages of empathetic leadership.
• Actionable Strategies: Get practical tips to incorporate empathy into your leadership or teaching practice.

1. Detroit Public Schools. (2023). Increasing community trust through parent engagement. DPS Research Reports, 12(4), 23-29.
2. Goleman, D. (2013). Emotional intelligence: Why it can matter more than IQ. Bantam Books.
3. Jennings, P. A., & Greenberg, M. T. (2009). The prosocial classroom: Teacher social and emotional competence in relation to student and classroom outcomes. Review of Educational Research, 79(1), 491-525.
4. Kerns, C. D. (2021). Empathy in leadership: Fostering connection and commitment. Journal of Leadership Studies, 15(2), 25-33.
5. Smith, R., & Parker, J. (2020). Post-crisis leadership: Supporting school staff through trauma-informed practices. Educational Leadership Quarterly, 36(3), 18-26.

How do you use empathy to lead and connect with your school community? Share your insights and success stories with me on social media or email me at thepedalingprincipal@gmail.com.

Thank you for tuning in to Walk-the-Talk Wednesday! Let’s keep fostering empathy and creating stronger schools together.