Reflection Question
Before listening to today's conversation, I invite you to pause for just a moment.
When someone walks into your school for the very first time, what do they experience before anyone says a single word?
What do they see, what do they feel, and what do they notice?
As you listen today, consider how every interaction, every tradition, and every leadership decision contributes to the culture you are creating.
Building a Culture That Lasts: The Leadership Behind Thriving Schools
Summer Series – Episode 2
School culture does not happen by accident.
It is shaped every day through the relationships we build, the values we model, and the countless decisions we make as leaders and educators.
In Episode Two of our Summer Series on Belonging, School Culture, and the Joy of the Work, I am delighted to continue my conversation with Dr. Anita Harkins-Mehsling, Associate Superintendent for the Archdiocese of Omaha.
One of the joys of hosting this community is introducing you to remarkable people whose work is making a difference, and Dr. Harkins-Mehsling offers thoughtful insight into one of the most important responsibilities of educational leadership: intentionally cultivating a school culture where people can thrive.
Together we explore:
• What school culture truly means
• Why culture is one of a leader's greatest responsibilities
• How everyday interactions shape a school's identity
• The importance of trust, relationships, and shared purpose
• Practical ways to strengthen a positive culture throughout the school year
Healthy school cultures are not built through programs alone. They are formed through consistent leadership, authentic relationships, and a shared commitment to creating environments where every person feels valued and encouraged to grow.
Whether you serve as a teacher, principal, diocesan leader, ministry leader, or parent, I hope this conversation encourages you to reflect on the culture you are helping create each day.
As educational leaders, we have the extraordinary opportunity to shape environments that inspire hope, foster belonging, and remind every member of our community that they matter.
Thank you, Dr. Anita Harkins-Mehsling, for sharing your wisdom and your unwavering commitment to Catholic education.
Thank you for joining us for Episode Two of our Summer Series.
If this conversation encourages you, I invite you to subscribe, share this episode with a colleague or friend, and become part of our growing community as we continue celebrating the people, ideas, and everyday moments that inspire hope, belonging, and the joy of the work.
Practice for the Week
Walk through your school before anyone else arrives one morning.
Slowly. Without a checklist. Simply observe.
If you were a new student, teacher, or parent entering this building for the first time, what would your environment teach you about what your school values?
What one small change could strengthen your culture this week?
Until we gather again, may we continue to share the good.
About Sharing the Good with Dr. Denise Ball
Sharing the Good with Dr. Denise Ball is a community of educators, leaders, authors, ministry partners, and friends who believe that hope grows when we intentionally celebrate the good around us.
Hosted by Dr. Denise Ball, each episode features meaningful conversations exploring leadership, belonging, school culture, faith, professional learning, teacher retention, innovation, and the everyday moments that remind us that joy is found in serving others.
Together, we are building a community where encouragement, wisdom, and authentic relationships help us all flourish.
