Teacher Development, and Sustainable School Leadership wi...

What this episode covers

Today Dr. Carla Sparks interviews Dr. Aleli Vazquez, an educational leader and National Louis University alumni Hall of Fame inductee, about leading with purpose through school culture, instruction, and advocacy. Dr. Vazquez shares how earning her doctorate in 2020 supported her leadership during COVID, her work as a founding principal in Florida, and her current role as Dean of Faculty at the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta. She explains RCA’s high-energy, high-expectation model for grades 4–8 and its conferences that allow educators to observe live classrooms, learn RCA strategies, and implement systems like the house system. Dr. Vazquez details coaching and feedback practices centered on reflection, excellence, and support, and emphasizes sustainability through shared vision, transparency, staff ownership, and developing leaders. She gives her advice on educator leadership without titles, investing in people, protecting culture, and leading with heart, empathy, and excellence.Episode Highlights:00:00 Podcast Welcome00:39 Meet Dr Aleli Vazquez03:12 Post Doctorate Journey05:17 What Is Ron Clark Academy07:15 Coaching Teachers at RCA10:31 Visiting RCA Conferences13:04 Influencing Through Adults16:06 Culture Meets Instruction20:42 Building Sustainable Legacy24:19 From Principal to RCA30:12 Advice for Change Makers34:01 Closing Thanks

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Education Influencers?

This episode is 34 minutes long.

When was this Education Influencers episode published?

This episode was published on May 23, 2026.

What is this episode about?

Today Dr. Carla Sparks interviews Dr. Aleli Vazquez, an educational leader and National Louis University alumni Hall of Fame inductee, about leading with purpose through school culture, instruction, and advocacy. Dr. Vazquez shares how earning her...

Can I download this Education Influencers episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.