Lisa Parry on Showing Up, Leaning In, and Leading Schools That Thrive

In this energizing episode of Innovating Education, Dr. Riley Williams talks with Lisa Parry—award-winning principal, TEDx speaker, and co-developer of the Good to Great Teacher Mentoring Program—about what it really takes to lead schools where both students and adults can thrive. Drawing on more than 30 years in education, Lisa shares why she still teaches one class a year as a principal, how she supports new teachers through disillusionment (not just burnout), and what she has learned from leading high-performing, award-winning schools.​The conversation focuses on building cultures relentlessly centered on relationships, learning, and instructional integrity, with practical strategies for likable leadership, conflict resolution, and teacher retention. Lisa also unpacks her “1% better every day” mindset and offers concrete ways leaders and teachers can bridge the gap between vision and daily practice.​Key takeaways:How teaching alongside staff shapes Lisa’s leadership, credibility, and instructional decision-making.​Strategies for mentoring early-career teachers through the disillusionment phase and sustaining them in the profession.Practical tools for likable leadership, navigating conflict, and designing schools that keep great teachers.Why a “1% better every day” approach can help educators lead and live with more clarity, energy, and hope.​Connect with Lisa Parry:Website: https://www.principalparry.com​TEDx Talk: “Enjoy Your Uptime: Three Ways to Level Up Your Life” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v82SWgtXvJI​