Funny Fridays and Food Trucks: How Great APs Create Joy in Schools

What happens when three award-winning assistant principals gather to share their leadership journeys? A powerful conversation about authenticity, vulnerability, and the transformative impact of being oneself in a leadership role.The 2025 Connecticut Association of Schools Assistant Principals of the Year – Laura Dixon from John Barry Elementary School; Marco Tirillo from John Wallace Middle School: and LaShante James from Brien McMahon High School – discuss moving beyond the traditional authority figure role to create initiatives that spread joy throughout their schools.  While they lead in unique and distinct school environments, their philosophies converge on a common theme: effective leadership requires bringing one's whole, authentic self to the work.