A Bronx native and graduate of Vassar College, Marisol has served NYC public schools for over two decades, bringing passion, emotional intelligence, and a deep commitment to community-centered leadership. She began her journey through the NYC Teaching Fellows Program and became a principal in perhaps one of the most challenging years for education—the 2019–2020 school year, right during the pandemic.

Marisol is also a national presenter and coach on emotionally intelligent leadership, a member of the Gray and Cahn Fellowships, and just beginning her doctoral journey. She also recently co-presented at the New York State Women in Administration conference.

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Key Takeaways:

Emotional Intelligence as a Core Leadership Strategy: the importance of self-awareness, vulnerability, and authenticity—especially post-pandemic—and how it allows leaders to foster trust, healing, and connection.

The Power of the Pause: In leadership, a pause can create clarity, restore purpose, and reduce reactive decision-making in high-stakes environments.

Culture-Building through Community Values: Through P.S. 110’s PRIDE framework (Perseverance, Respect, Imagination, Determination, Empowerment), Marisol has built a restorative, socially-emotional foundation that connects students, staff, and families.

Named one of the Top 100 Influencers in Education by District Administration magazine, Dr. Edoho-Eket’s leadership philosophy is rooted in relational intelligence—prioritizing authentic connections as the foundation for lasting school success. She's also the author of The Principal’s Journey and her newest release, Relational Intelligence: The Key to Exceptional School Leadership.

We’re thrilled to welcome her today to talk about what it means to lead with purpose, build trust, and inspire transformation in schools

Principal Mo reflects on leading through the pandemic, building trust with staff, and why modeling imperfection is a strength. She highlights her school’s shift to all-honors middle school courses as a strategy for equity, and how integrating AI tools has improved teacher workload and classroom outcomes. Her focus: empowering both students and educators to thrive.

Coming Soon: Principal Mo’s debut book on leadership and school transformation. Learn more at PrincipalMo.com.

Learn more: Visit smartpass.app to see how SmartPass improves student accountability and maximizes learning time

Takeaways

• Ashley Harbel's journey in education began with teaching the Diary of Anne Frank.
• Teaching sensitive topics requires open communication with parents and students.
• Personal connections, like survivor testimonies, enhance the learning experience.
• Restorative practices focus on learning from mistakes rather than punishment.
• Student voice is crucial for creating a positive school climate.
• Technology can help preserve and share survivor stories.
• Educators should continuously learn and grow to set an example for students.
• Collaboration among teachers, students, and administration is key to effective change.
• Empowering students leads to a stronger sense of community.
• Holocaust and genocide education is essential for fostering understanding and empathy.

Chapters

00:00: Introduction to Ashley Harbel and Her Journey

06:11: Navigating Sensitive Topics in Education

11:49: Transitioning from Classroom to Administration

17:51: Empowering Student Voices for Positive Change

Takeaways

• Dan Harding transitioned from special education to principal over a decade.
• He emphasizes the importance of extracurricular activities beyond sports.
• Over two-thirds of students at Kent Island High School are involved in activities.
• The school has a variety of clubs, including Dungeons and Dragons and debate.
• Engagement in school activities helps improve discipline and test scores.
• The advisory program was implemented to support student needs and engagement.
• Students can choose activities based on their interests during advisory periods.
• The school tracks student engagement and trusted adult relationships.
• Dan believes in recognizing students who show improvement, not just high achievers.
• Lifelong learning is encouraged through diverse opportunities and support.t

Sound Bites

• "We track as much information as we have."
• "If you want to do it, let's do it."
• "You can't fake it, you have to love it."
• "We've seen great benefit from it."

Chapters

00:00 Journey from Teacher to Principal

08:06 Fostering Extracurricular Engagement

15:02 Implementing the Advisory Program

20:51: Cultivating Lifelong Learners

Berlin High School prides itself on excellence—whether it’s their pristine facilities, successful athletic programs, or innovative educational opportunities. Today, we’ll hear about how Bryant is preserving that legacy while still shaking things up.

Whether you’re an educator, an administrator, or just passionate about the future of learning, this is the place for you. Each episode, you’ll hear real talk about leadership, from innovative strategies to support students and staff, to navigating the challenges of modern education.

We keep it fun and conversational, digging into what matters most to our guests, like their top leadership principles and real-world problem-solving. You’ll leave each episode inspired with fresh ideas and practical tips you can use in your own school community.

Principals of Change is brought to you by SmartPass, the digital hall pass solution that replaces traditional pass systems to increase student accountability, minimize disruptions, and maximize class time.