In this episode of the Middle School Walk and Talk podcast, hosts Phyllis Fagell and Jessica McGuire sit down with Brian Rickert and Katie Laird, a dynamic principal + assistant principal duo from Trumbull, Connecticut, who share their innovative approach to collaborative leadership in a bustling middle school of 800 students. Unlike traditional models that divide tasks between administrators, Brian and Katie emphasize a "better together" philosophy, working side-by-side to enhance outcomes for students and staff while building a culture of shared ownership and trust. They dive into tangible successes—like passing a referendum for a new school building and slashing chronic absenteeism by nearly 50%—and offer practical advice for educators looking to shift toward a more unified leadership style, proving that teamwork at the top can ripple through an entire school community.

Middle School Walk & Talk is a production of the Association for Middle Level Education. Learn more at amle.org.