Today we're joined by author, educator and PBL advocate Sara Lev, to explain why project-based learning is not only appropriate for our youngest learners, but should be implemented far more often. We cover what it looks like in the early grades, and how principals can lead the way in implementing project-based learning in early childhood.

Sara Lev is teacher on special assignment at the Larchmont Charter School in Los Angeles, and author of Implementing Project Based Learning in Early Childhood. You can find her on Twitter @saramlev.

Liz Garden is principal of Henry P. Clough Elementary school in Mendon Massachusetts, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.

Scott McLeod is professor of educational leadership at the University of Colorado, Denver, and a fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.

Regardless of what strategies school leaders use to improve learning, one thing is for certain: Students must be present to receive that learning. Student attendance is a critical issue for many schools across the country, and in this episode we discuss the assistant principal's role in tackling chronic absenteeism.

Donna McGuire is moderator for the NAESP Assistant Principal Community of Practice, and serves as assistant principal at Park Terrace School in New York City.

Sonia Matthew is assistant principal of Mary B. Neal Elementary School in Waldorf, Maryland, and a 2025 NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal.

D’Metria Alston is assistant principal of Wilder Elementary School in Westerville, Ohio.

Join us this April to celebrate National Assistant Principals Week! Visit naesp.org/APWeek to learn more.

In this powerful episode, Xavier Reed and Dr. Sharon Porter engage in a candid and thought-provoking conversation on anti-racist and inclusive leadership in education. Joined by NAESP President Kevin Armstrong and leadership expert Madeline McNeely, they explore strategies for fostering equitable school environments, dismantling systemic barriers, and leading with intentional inclusivity. This episode is a must-listen for educators, administrators, and leaders committed to transforming schools into spaces of belonging and empowerment for all students.

Kevin Armstrong, Ed.D. is executive principal at DuPont Hadley Middle School in Old Hickory, Tennessee, and 2024-2025 NAESP President.

Madeline McNeely, M.Ed. is an author, speaker, executive coach, and founder and CEO of Conditioning Leaders.

Sharon Porter is principal of Allenwood Elementary School in Temple Hills, Maryland, and has just started her inaugural year as fellow at the NAESP Center for Diversity Leadership.

Xavier Reed is principal of Central Middle School in Wayzata, Minnesota, and is continuing his second year as fellow at the center.