Leading Minds Webinar Series
Leading Minds Webinar Series - 2026
Virtual conversations to help live, learn, and lead in the real world
The Heart of School Leadership: Building a Culture of Hope, Belonging & Achievement that Transforms Students' Lives
Live Session: Thursday, March 26, 2026, 3:00PM ET
Presented by: Dr. Salome Thomas-EL, Educational Leader and Best-selling Author

Dr. Salome
Thomas-EL
Every student deserves to know the truth: they are unique, incredible, and capable of doing great things. In this inspiring, action-oriented webinar, Principal Salome Thomas-EL shares how educators can become the consistent, caring adults that students can rely on—while building a school culture grounded in love, high expectations, and mindset-based empowerment.
Drawing from his journey as a student whose life was changed by empathetic educators—and as a leader committed to being a life-changer for every child—Principal EL introduces practical strategies rooted in his Four Cs approach and aligned to mindset-based learning: helping students develop the inner belief, mindset, and habits that make success possible, especially when life is hard.
Participants will leave with research-backed moves to:
- Create belonging and trust so students feel safe, seen, and ready to learn
- Strengthen protective processes and resilience, including how to support students impacted by trauma with steadiness and care
- Design engaging, respectful instruction that boosts motivation, confidence, and critical thinking
- Partner with families and communities through after-school programs and authentic community engagement
- Support and sustain educators—because when committed teachers stay, whole communities benefit
This session is for bold educators and leaders who care deeply about kids and want a clear, doable roadmap for helping students grow into the life and leadership roles ahead—by shaping not only what students learn, but how they see themselves and what they believe is possible.
About the Presenter: Dr. Salome Thomas-EL, aka Principal EL, is an award-winning principal and teacher, an internationally recognized speaker, and author/co-author of six best-selling books, including his latest, Meet Their Needs and They'll Succeed. Principal EL has been a teacher and principal since 1987 and is currently a K-8 school leader in Wilmington, Delaware.
