In this episode, host Karen Borchert sits down with Sheila Taylor, principal of Norwalk School District, to unpack the unique and inspiring practices that have made her school a beacon of connection and joy.

With over three decades in education Sheila shares the special story behind her school’s “grade alike” structure where over 500 second and third graders learn and grow together. Sheila pulls back the curtain on what it means to build a sense of family among both staff and students; how intentional acts of noticing and kindness can transform a workplace, and why laughter is a core ingredient to any thriving school.

Whether you’re an educator, school leader, or just in need of some heartwarming ideas for building community, this episode is filled with inspiring stories, practical tips, and genuine moments of joy to help you create a place where both kids and grown-ups want to be.

💡 Little Wins in This Episode:

The Art of Noticing: Sheila tracks personal milestones of her staff and follows up year after year with compassion.

The Last Day Tunnel Walk: A tear-filled sendoff where every child walks through a tunnel of cheering staff.

Color-Coded Belonging: A thoughtful building design with color-themed hallways and "family halls" to help even the youngest students feel grounded.

From a Rough Start to a Respected Leader: Sheila vulnerably shares how she turned around a rocky first year as principal by doubling down on visibility, humility, and connection.

Leader in Me, Lived Daily: Sheila models the habits she asks her staff and students to embrace: “seek first to understand.”

Key Moments

04:08 Streamlined Collaboration in Schools
08:30 "Everyone Matters"
10:24 "School Reopening with Positivity"
15:10 Addressing Trauma in Educational Settings
18:36 "Morning School Greetings and Empathy"
22:11 "Overwhelmed by Life's Challenges"
25:48 Stepping Out: Be Visible
29:06 "Leader in Me: School Habits Program"
32:41 Understanding Generational Challenges
34:15 Leading by Example
38:25 Supportive Community Matters
40:54 Empathy and Joyful Leadership
43:54 "Support and Connection

Connect with Sheila Taylor
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheila-taylor-2331b589/
Website: https://www.norwalkschools.org/

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🧵 About the Podcast:
Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.

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