
The Minimalist Educator Podcast
Episode 069: Leading with Love: Putting People First in Education with Laurie Namey
Laurie Namey shares how prioritizing people first in educational leadership leads to transformative school cultures and student achievement. Her leadership philosophy centers on a minimalist principle, proving that when people are valued first, everything else falls into place.
• Prioritize people by day, paperwork by night
• The physical environment communicates value – students deserve clean, well-maintained spaces
• Create non-negotiable routines that center on student interactions
• Personalized communication matters – handwritten notes have profound impact
• Allow space for vulnerability in leadership when facing challenges
• In crisis moments, focus solely on what's best for students
• Core values and clear purpose help maintain balance during difficult situations
• Hard work, consistent routines, and putting people first are foundation for success
Remember what's at the heart of our work – taking care of children first, everything else second.
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The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.