Linking Leaders PodCASt

Linking Leaders PodCASt features candid conversations with top educational leaders who come together to share experiences and explore pathways to success. In each episode, we engage with dynamic leaders to uncover real-life stories, practical strategies and bold insights on timely and relevant topics. Listen up to link up and let us help you expand your network of innovation and support!

Linking Leaders PodCASt is a arts podcast hosted by Connecticut Association of Schools, with 24 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80.

Connecticut Association of Schools hosts Linking Leaders PodCASt, a arts show with 24 episodes published.

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  Episode #24

  Leading with Trust and Positivity: Leading with Trust: The Everyday Work of Building a Great School

  Sep 14, 202624 min

  A school doesn’t become “Elementary School of the Year” by accident, and it takes far more than adopting the latest promising program. Host Alicia Bowman sits down with Jen DeRagon, principal of George Hersey Robertson Intermediate School in Coventry, Connecticut, to unpack the leadership choices behind a joyful, award-winning school community. They talk candidly about pandemic-era uncertainty, the power of vulnerability, and the practical culture moves that help staff and students thrive.

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  Episode #23

  Building a Bilingual School Culture

  Jun 18, 202618 min

  In this episode of the Linking Leaders PodCASt, we sit down with Diurca Lugo-Tomasella, the 2026 Connecticut Elementary School Principal of the Year, to unpack how she has built a dual language school where identity, biliteracy, and high expectations live side by side. We talk culture systems, family partnership, teacher leadership, and the habits that help principals carry the weight of the work without carrying it alone.

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  Episode #22

  Culture, Teamwork and Bon Jovi: Insights from An Award-Winning AP

  Apr 29, 202628 minS0

  <p>In this episode of the Linking Leaders PodCASt, Dr. Alicia Bowman sits down with Dr. Dana Mulligan, 2026 Connecticut High School Assistant Principal of the Year, to explore what it means to lead with heart, humility, and a "we're all in this together" mindset. From building a family-centered school culture through daily advisory to making tough decisions guided by “what would I want for my own child,” Mulligan shares practical insights from over two decades in the AP role. It’s a candid look at the small moments, shared leadership, and yes—those livin’-on-a-prayer days—that define impactful school leadership.<

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  Episode #21

  Leading Beyond Comfort: Why Great Principals Invite Dissent

  Mar 17, 202636 minS0

  <p>In this episode of Linking Leaders, Dr. Alicia Bowman sits down with 2026 Connecticut High School Principal of the Year, Anthony “T.J.” Salutari, for a candid and energizing conversation about his experiences leading Daniel Hand High School in Madison. From an unexpected nudge into the principalship to over two decades of educational leadership, T.J. shares how he’s learned to adapt his leadership style, center relationships, and stay grounded in a role that’s equal parts rewarding and relentless. <br/><br/>T.J. offers a powerful look inside a school culture built on belonging, where dissent isn’t just welcom...

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  Episode #20

  How Small Moves And Instructional Rounds Transform A Middle School

  Feb 4, 202629 minS0

  <p>Our newest podcast episode features guest Mark Summa, assistant principal of Avon Middle School and Connecticut's 2026 Middle School Assistant Principal of the Year. Mark shares how small, intentional leadership moves—rooted in safety, love, and high expectations—shape school culture and student belonging in the middle grades. The conversation offers concrete insights on leading at scale while staying human, sustaining resilience in demanding roles, and leveraging relationships to drive growth.</p>

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