Episode 232: Six Essential Elements of School Culture (and How Leaders Shape Them)

In this solo episode of Leaning Into Leadership, Dr. Darrin Peppard dives into the heartbeat of every great school: its culture. Drawing from personal experiences as a principal and superintendent, as well as insights from his writing and coaching, Darrin unpacks six essential elements of school culture and how leaders can directly influence each one.

From clarity of vision to the importance of celebration, he explores how daily actions and leadership choices either strengthen or weaken the culture we want for our schools. You’ll hear stories from his own leadership journey—including lessons from coaching, team retreats, and learning to stop being “Captain Chaos”—and walk away with strategies you can put into practice immediately.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why clarity of purpose and vision is the anchor for culture
• How trust and psychological safety empower staff and students to take risks
• The role of relationships and belonging in creating connected schools
• Ways to reinforce culture through celebration and recognition
• Why consistency and accountability protect trust and fairness
• How leaders shape culture through modeling and intentionality

Culture isn’t a poster or program—it’s the lived reality in your classrooms, hallways, and community. As leaders, you are the culture carriers.

Grab my free School Leaders Planner here to help you prioritize what matters most, block time with intention, and stay focused on the work only you can do.

Grab an autographed copy of Road to Awesome: The Journey of a Leader