A New School Year — How to Build HOPE in Your School

This year feels different for me. After more than two decades serving as a social worker, principal, and superintendent, I’ve stepped into a new season—one where I’m no longer immersed in the traditional back-to-school rush. It feels a little strange, but it’s also a powerful reminder: no matter the season, you get to choose how you lead.

I want to share my story with you. For years, I led schools and districts while carrying the stress, overwhelm, and frustration that often comes with leadership. But along the way, I discovered a better way—heart-centered, hope-fueled leadership. Instead of being consumed by endless tasks and distractions, I began focusing on what truly matters: building systems that bring clarity, stability, and sustainability. That’s where hope thrives. And that’s what I want for you this school year.

Because leading with H.O.P.E. isn’t just about intention—it’s about impact. When you lead with hope, you influence culture, uplift your team, and foster wellness. Hope creates ripple effects that reach far beyond your own leadership. Here are three key ways to cultivate hope, wellness, and culture this year:

1. Prioritize Connection

Connection is where leadership begins. People thrive when they feel seen, heard, and valued. The most impactful leaders intentionally invest in relationships by listening deeply, showing empathy, and celebrating strengths.

Practical strategies include:

• Starting meetings with quick check-ins.

• Practicing consistent gratitude and recognition.

• Offering small, meaningful gestures—remembering names, sending handwritten notes, or offering encouragement when it’s needed most.

One of my favorite practices as a school leader was the 2 x 10 Rule—spending 2 minutes a day for 10 days in a row connecting with one student or staff member. We didn’t talk about school or work; we talked about their interests, passions, and families. Those small investments built trust and deepened connection.

When leaders prioritize connection, they cultivate belonging. And belonging fuels hope.

2. Cultivate Community

Strong communities don’t just happen—they are built intentionally. Recognition and celebration are powerful ways to create a culture where people know their efforts matter.

A heart-centered leader amplifies stories of impact: a teacher sparking curiosity in the classroom, a student showing kindness, or a team solving challenges together. Sharing these stories through newsletters, morning announcements, staff shout-outs, or community gatherings creates a ripple effect of positivity.

Over time, these celebrations weave a culture of pride, belonging, and shared purpose. When people see their work honored, they know they are part of something bigger than themselves.

3. Consistency Compounds

Consistency may not be flashy, but it is transformative. Just as water shapes stone, the small, steady actions of a leader—checking in, recognizing effort, modeling optimism, keeping promises—build trust and stability over time.

When you consistently lead with integrity and intentionality, people begin to see hope as more than a feeling—it becomes a foundation they can rely on. Celebrations turn into traditions. Recognition becomes a rhythm. Connection becomes the norm.

And in time, those consistent, hope-filled actions create a culture where resilience thrives, optimism fuels progress, purpose is shared, and excellence is pursued together.

Want to dive deeper?
I recently appeared on the "Data in Education" podcast with Jessica Lane, where I shared insights on leading with purpose and hope. I invite you to listen and gain practical strategies for your own leadership journey.

Also—this week on my own podcast, Lead with HOPE, I’m joined by Gretchen Bridgers, owner and chief consultant of Always A Lesson. We talk about the power of relationships and how leaders can empower teachers. This episode drops Saturday—you won’t want to miss it!

And if you’re ready to take your leadership to the next level, I invite you to join the Spark HOPE Coaching Cohort. This community is designed to help you develop clarity, resilience, and hope—building a culture that uplifts your team and transforms your impact.

When you lead with hope, you create ripple effects that inspire lasting change. 

Limited spots are available—apply now and let’s rise together!

When you lead with hope, you create ripples that inspire lasting change.

Let’s rise together.

With heart and hope,
Brandi Kelly, Ed.D., LCSW
Chief HOPE Officer, Spark HOPE Edu, LLC