Belonging

The Heart of Leadership: Humility and Belonging

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Earlier this week, our country lost a remarkable leader in former President Jimmy Carter. The tributes that followed didn’t focus on grand speeches or flashy displays of power. Instead, they celebrated Carter’s unwavering faith, his steadfast dedication to community, and his lifelong commitment to making the world a better place for others. His leadership wasn’t about being the center of attention or staging photo-ops; it was about rolling up his sleeves and humbly serving those around him.

As educators, we must ask ourselves: What kind of leaders are we striving to be? Are we chasing the spotlight or building the light in others? For too long, I’ve seen school leaders drawn to performative leadership—the standing on tables, the viral stunts, the costumes designed for “likes” rather than lasting impact. While these acts may entertain for a moment, they often fail to empower others or build the foundation of belonging that our students, teachers, and families need.

Leadership isn’t about gimmicks or self-promotion. True leadership lies in tuning into the gifts of others and encouraging them to follow their unique paths. It’s about listening more than speaking, serving more than being served, and building a culture where everyone feels valued, seen, and capable of greatness.

Jimmy Carter once said, “We must adjust to changing times and still hold to unchanging principles.” His words remind us that the principles of humility, service, and community are timeless in leadership. Humble leadership is a quiet force that lifts others without fanfare. It builds cultures of belonging, not through stunts, but through consistency, care, and compassion.

For many years, my father instilled in me the idea that greatness comes not from being on a stage but from being in service to others. He taught me to dare to be great by encouraging others to step off the sidelines and into their potential. As leaders, it’s our calling to help others “kick off the bench” and take those daring steps toward their own greatness.

Four Leadership Moves to Build a Culture of Belonging with Humility

1. Listen With Purpose

Create opportunities to listen to the voices of students, teachers, and families. Regularly ask, “What do you need?” or “How can I support you?” and act on what you hear. Listening isn’t just hearing—it’s responding with action and intention.

2. Celebrate Others’ Gifts

Leadership isn’t about being the hero of every story. Shine the spotlight on your team. Recognize the unique talents and achievements of those you serve. Build platforms where others can share their brilliance.

3. Serve Quietly and Consistently

Leadership is often found in the small, unseen moments. Show up early to greet students. Pitch in during tough times without announcing it. Let your actions speak louder than your words.

4. Model Humility in Every Interaction

Humility isn’t weakness; it’s strength in understanding that leadership is about others, not ourselves. Admit mistakes, ask for feedback, and be willing to learn alongside your team.

Let us step away from the noise of performative leadership and into the quiet power of service. Leadership isn’t standing on a table or staging antics that distract from our core mission. It’s about humbly helping others discover their greatness.

As I reflect on Jimmy Carter’s legacy and the lessons my father taught me, I’m reminded of the simple truth: Leadership is not about being in the spotlight—it’s about igniting the light in others. Dare to be great by building a culture where everyone belongs and is empowered to lead.

Let’s get to work, sleeves rolled up, hearts full of humility, and hands ready to serve.

Beat Support Revisited: Leadership in Rhythm

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Leadership can feel like navigating the swirling chaos of a live performance—where the screams of the crowd threaten to drown out your rhythm. As school leaders, it’s easy to get lost in the noise, but it’s in these moments that we must tune into those around us. The people we lead and serve are our rhythm section, and finding the right “beat support” can make all the difference.

I’ve been reflecting on this idea recently, inspired by a moment I once shared on my podcast, #PrincipalLinerNotes. Years ago, during one of my “Impromptu Carpool Episodes,” I recorded an off-the-cuff reflection about a clip of The Beatles performing “I Feel Fine” live. Amidst the chaos of Beatlemania—where stage monitors were nonexistent and screaming fans drowned out everything—Paul McCartney stepped in with a move of pure leadership. During Ringo Starr’s incredible drum break, Paul gave a quick cue, counting Ringo back in and ensuring he nailed his return to the beat.

That moment wasn’t just about music; it was a masterclass in leadership. It demonstrated the importance of being attuned to your team, providing support when they need it, and ensuring that everyone finds their rhythm.

The Rhythm of Belonging

I explored this connection between The Beatles, leadership, and education in my book, The Pepper Effect. In it, I share lessons from the Fab Four that remind us of the power of collaboration, creativity, and connection. (You can check out the book here! The Pepper Effect on Amazon).

One of the most important lessons from both The Beatles and leadership is the role of belonging. As leaders, we need to provide the cues and support that allow our team to thrive. Whether it’s a trusted teacher who serves as your barometer or the intentional moments where you help others find their groove, belonging starts with building connections.

Four Ways Leaders Can Build Beat Support

Here are four actionable ways leaders can create their own “beat support” and foster belonging:

1. Find Your Barometer

Identify someone you trust—someone who will be honest with you—and use them as a gauge to understand how your decisions and words land with your team.

2. Be a Barometer for Others

Provide clear and supportive cues for your team. Let them know where they stand and help them feel confident in their role.

3. Celebrate Strengths

Like Paul recognizing Ringo’s brilliance, tune into the unique gifts of your team members and amplify their contributions.

4. Create Collaborative Spaces

Build opportunities for your team to share ideas, support each other, and work toward common goals. Belonging grows in the spaces where collaboration thrives.

What’s Next: Why The Beatles Matter

This reflection on leadership, belonging, and The Beatles has inspired me to launch a new podcast called “Why The Beatles Matter,”starting December 12. This podcast will explore the lasting impact of The Beatles and their legacy through conversations with people whose lives have been shaped by their music and message.

I’m looking for future guests to share their stories of how The Beatles inspired them. If you’d like to join me on this journey, email me at sgaillard84@gmail.com. Spaces are filling up fast.

Finding Our Bandmates: Leading with Belonging and Hope in Mind

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There’s a powerful moment in the Ron Howard documentary, The Beatles: Eight Days a Week – The Touring Years, where Paul McCartney reflects on when Ringo Starr first joined the band. McCartney becomes visibly emotional as he recalls the moment The Beatles finally found their unique sound with Ringo’s drumming—the missing piece they’d been searching for. It’s a reminder of the magic that happens when people unite around a shared vision, truly seeing one another in that experience. That’s the heartbeat of any great band, and it’s the pulse that drives a meaningful school culture: connection.

Not every team operates like The Beatles, and not every organization feels that synergy. Even The Beatles had their ups and downs, but despite personal struggles, they continued to rally together. And in our schools, we, too, are called to cultivate that kind of connection, especially in times when loneliness and isolation can seem overwhelming.

A recent article in the Harvard Business Review highlights that one in five employees feel lonely at work. This statistic resonated with me as a principal because leadership can be an isolating role. Principals, often the only ones in their specific position, can feel a sharp sense of loneliness, especially when new to a school. Walking into a new environment, we’ve often left behind a place of familiarity and success and stepped into an unknown, where we may even be perceived as a threat. Building trust in these moments is essential but cannot be accomplished through quick fixes or shallow gestures.

It is also important to remember that the people we serve may be battling some form of loneliness as well. Human-centered work is a labor of love. For some educators in the schoolhouse, the work can be isolating. Individuals in the building may feel bereft of connection for a myriad of reasons. As leaders, we must be steadfast, sincere, and intentional in the steps we take to include those who are not experiencing connection or belonging.

As a principal who has navigated the challenges of turnarounds, I know that intentionality is key. Building trust takes time, and trust is essential for establishing the genuine connections that will combat isolation and loneliness for everyone in the school. As leaders, we must commit to meaningful interactions that empower others and foster a sense of belonging.

Getting into classrooms is one of the most valuable moves we can make as principals. Walkthroughs and observations are essential, but there are ways to build trust and connection beyond mere evaluation. Try hosting a “Read Aloud” or engaging in a “Question Aloud” or “Think Aloud” session. Sharing the written word—whether it’s a passage from an inspiring book or a content-related question—allows us to connect with students and teachers alike. A Read Aloud isn’t just for elementary levels; sharing language and stories can resonate at any grade level, and it’s a moment to be seen as a partner in the learning process rather than an evaluator.

In seeking these connection points, we’re also building pathways for collaboration. One approach I’ve found impactful is a practice I started a couple of years called #InstantPD. After observing a teacher excel in a particular area, I invite them to share a brief, 15-minute PD session for their colleagues. This optional, quick-format session provides a space for teachers to share their insights and build professional connections. As a leader, witnessing this shared growth not only strengthens my sense of belonging but also empowers our educators to connect with each other. This in turn creates authentic belonging and connection for them.

Our role as leaders is not only to combat our own loneliness but also to actively work against it within our schools. Some may be reluctant to join the “band” initially, but with intention and consistency, we can foster a culture where everyone feels they belong.

Conclusion

Hope is the ignition for belonging, and as school leaders, we must foster that hope in ourselves and those we serve. Just as Ringo’s drumming completed The Beatles’ sound, our consistent efforts to connect and include each person in our schools create harmony and a shared purpose. Building a culture of connection requires us to lean into that hope, step into vulnerability, and lead with compassion. Together, we can create school communities that resonate with trust, connection, and shared vision.

Action Steps for Combating Loneliness and Building Connection:

  1. Get Visible in Classrooms
    Make time for a Read Aloud, a Question Aloud, or a Think Aloud. These are powerful ways to build a sense of belonging by connecting with students and teachers on a personal level. Show up, engage, and share in the learning journey with your school community.
  2. Empower Teacher Leadership through #InstantPD
    Encourage teachers to share their strengths in optional 15-minute PD sessions. Not only does this build their confidence, but it also fosters a collaborative culture where colleagues can learn from each other in an informal, supportive environment.
  3. Build and Nurture Your Professional Learning Network (PLN)
    Connect with other leaders, both within your district and beyond, through online communities or local gatherings. A strong PLN can serve as a vital support system, helping you navigate challenges and celebrate successes together.
  4. Create Moments for Personal Connection
    Simple gestures like checking in with staff, sending a quick thank-you note, or organizing informal meetups can go a long way. Recognize and celebrate the unique gifts each person brings, reminding them that they are an essential part of the team.

By taking these steps, we can build a culture where loneliness is replaced with a sense of shared purpose, and every member of the school community feels seen, valued, and connected.

Momentary Awareness: Leadership Riffs for Belonging

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The other day, I had a text conversation with a friend who was transitioning to a new job opportunity. While my friend was leaving on good terms, it saddened me to hear that the departure went unacknowledged—no farewell, no simple goodbye. This person, whom I hold in high regard, experienced a silent exit. It struck me deeply and reminded me of the power of moments in our professional lives.

As a principal, I believe in the significance of building intentional bookends in service to others. These bookends, moments that begin and conclude a journey, are crucial in creating a tapestry of experiences that resonate. I developed this habit from my days in a band, where I would help arrange setlists to craft an experience for the audience. We’d start strong, set the tone, and build to a powerful conclusion that lingered long after the final note. I carried the same approach into my lesson planning as an English teacher.

As leaders, we are called to foster a culture of belonging for the people we serve. One key to building that sense of belonging is being mindful of the moments. How we welcome our people is just as important as how we conclude things. In the midst of the day’s chaos—meetings, deadlines, hurried communications—it’s easy to lose sight of this. But nothing is more important than investing time in making sure moments are meaningful for those we serve.

Whether we’re creating an upbeat orientation for new team members or wishing someone well as they move on to a new opportunity, it’s essential to be intentional. These interactions should be personal and meaningful, honoring the role that person played in our organization. We want them to leave with a positive narrative about their experience. More importantly, as leaders, we want to be decent, kind, and supportive.

Several years ago, I was captivated by The Power of Moments by Chip Heath and Dan Heath. The book emphasizes the impact of meaningful experiences in organizations, making it a must-read for any leader. One quote that resonates with me is, “Our lives are measured in moments, and defining moments are the ones that endure in our memories.” As school leaders, we must invest in creating moments that will echo in the lives of those we serve, ensuring that our teachers and students walk away from our schools feeling connected and a true sense of belonging. How we welcome is just as important as how we bid farewell.

Here are four ways school leaders can build meaningful moments that serve as bookends for the teachers and students they serve:

  1. Morning Meetings: Start the day with intention by hosting Morning Meetings. This time can be used to set a positive tone, share goals, and build a sense of community. It’s a moment where everyone can feel seen and heard, setting the stage for a productive and connected day.
  2. #CelebrateMonday: Kick off the week with #CelebrateMonday. This initiative is about starting each week on a positive and inviting note for all stakeholders. Recognize achievements, share uplifting stories, and set the tone for the days ahead. It’s a simple yet powerful way to create an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated.
  3. Closing Meetings for Students: As the school day ends, hold a Closing Meeting for Students. This is an opportunity to reflect on the day’s successes, address any challenges, and leave students with an empowering message. It ensures that they leave on an uplifting note, carrying that positive energy into their homes and communities.
  4. Personalized Farewells: When someone leaves your school, whether a student, teacher, or staff member, make it a point to acknowledge their departure in a meaningful way. A personalized farewell, whether it’s a small gathering, a handwritten note, or a simple but sincere goodbye, honors their contributions and ensures they leave with a sense of closure and appreciation.

Moments are intentional moves that must align with the vision and mission but must also resonate with the hearts of the people we get to serve and support. As leaders, let’s commit to creating those defining moments that will endure in the memories of those we lead