
Sign up to save your podcasts
Or


Building a positive school culture is a journey, and every decision either moves you forward or slows you down. In this episode, Dr. Jim Van Allan uses a simple orthodontist analogy to shine light on the school culture "roadtrip." Just like braces, culture requires steady alignment, consistent attention, and proactive leadership. You'll learn how to avoid costly detours, recognize early warning signs, and make intentional pit stops that keep your staff energized and your vision clear. With research insights from the Learning Policy Institute and practical leadership strategies, this episode inspires you to drive your culture with focus, courage, and purpose.
Key Takeaways
Culture is a journey you must actively drive, not something that fixes itself
Momentum matters, and delaying hard conversations makes the road longer
Leaders must monitor alignment and prevent erosion by staying proactive
Strategic check-ins help recalibrate vision, norms, relationships, and energy
Research supports that positive school climates improve student achievement and teacher satisfaction
Whole child culture work is foundational, not optional, and requires safe relationships, emotional support, and consistent structures
Learn more about The Energy Bus for Schools program at www.EnergyBusForSchools.com and connect with Dr. Jim VanAllan at [email protected]
By Dr. Jim Van Allan5
44 ratings
Building a positive school culture is a journey, and every decision either moves you forward or slows you down. In this episode, Dr. Jim Van Allan uses a simple orthodontist analogy to shine light on the school culture "roadtrip." Just like braces, culture requires steady alignment, consistent attention, and proactive leadership. You'll learn how to avoid costly detours, recognize early warning signs, and make intentional pit stops that keep your staff energized and your vision clear. With research insights from the Learning Policy Institute and practical leadership strategies, this episode inspires you to drive your culture with focus, courage, and purpose.
Key Takeaways
Culture is a journey you must actively drive, not something that fixes itself
Momentum matters, and delaying hard conversations makes the road longer
Leaders must monitor alignment and prevent erosion by staying proactive
Strategic check-ins help recalibrate vision, norms, relationships, and energy
Research supports that positive school climates improve student achievement and teacher satisfaction
Whole child culture work is foundational, not optional, and requires safe relationships, emotional support, and consistent structures
Learn more about The Energy Bus for Schools program at www.EnergyBusForSchools.com and connect with Dr. Jim VanAllan at [email protected]

10,727 Listeners

13,990 Listeners

701 Listeners

1,210 Listeners

382 Listeners

2,448 Listeners

165,366 Listeners

13,048 Listeners

1,431 Listeners

41,522 Listeners

19,511 Listeners

268 Listeners