Episode 302: The Work Nobody Sees - A Thank You to School Principals

What happens when the person everyone turns to needs someone to turn to? October is National Principals Month, and Dr. Darrin Peppard is sharing one of his most personal leadership stories yet. During his years as a high school principal, Darrin once drove to the top of a mountain for one simple reason: he needed somewhere he could scream. It was a moment that reflected the emotional weight of leading a school, carrying confidential information, navigating difficult decisions, and supporting an entire school community. In this special solo episode of Leaning Into Leadership, Darrin explores the invisible backpack every principal carries and the important leadership work that often goes unnoticed. Drawing from his experiences as a principal, superintendent, and leadership coach, he shares three examples of the unseen work that makes an extraordinary difference: the conversations nobody hears, the decisions nobody understands, and the moments nobody remembers. But this episode isn't simply about the challenges of principalship. It's a celebration of the relationships, collective purpose, and privilege that make the work so meaningful. In this episode: The personal story behind Darrin's trip to the top of a mountain. The invisible backpack principals carry and why even the strongest leaders need support. Three important acts of leadership that rarely receive recognition. Why relationships remain one of the greatest rewards of school leadership. A challenge for superintendents to support the people who lead their schools. Two meaningful ways to celebrate National Principals Month. A question worth considering: Who helps the person everybody else comes to for help? Whether you're currently serving as a principal, supporting school leaders, or remembering a principal who made a difference in your life, this episode is a reminder that some of the most important leadership work happens when nobody is watching. During National Principals Month, take a moment to recognize someone whose leadership has made a difference. Be specific. Tell them about the conversation, decision, or moment that mattered. They might have no idea you still remember. This Episode Is Sponsored by Curriculum Leadership Institute and by HeyTutor We're excited to welcome Curriculum Leadership Institute (CLI) as our newest sponsor! Darrin has personally worked with CLI twice during his educational leadership career, first as a principal and again as a superintendent. CLI partners with districts to build sustainable curriculum systems, strengthen alignment, and provide teachers with the clarity they need to succeed. New districts can receive a 5% discount on their first year of service by mentioning Leaning Into Leadership. Learn more at https://cliweb.org or email [email protected]. HeyTutor partners with schools and districts to provide high-impact, in-person tutoring in literacy and math, helping students receive targeted academic support. Learn more at https://heytutor.com. Keep leaning into leadership, keep making a difference, and have a Road to Awesome week!