Cool Coffee with Kansas Principals

40 Episodes
Subscribe

By: KPA: Kansas Principals Association

Welcome to Cool Coffee with Kansas Principals! By and for school administrators, this podcast is intended to promote candid discussion and offer insight from a building leader’s perspective. The goal is to bring timely, interesting, comical, and/or relevant conversation for the building principal to enjoy. Brew your coffee and take a sip before it cools...this is Cool Coffee with Kansas Principals.

✂️ Clip this podcast
CC#141: Intentional Relationship Building--Start Tomorrow - A Principal's Perspective by Jill Beam - Washington Elem
CC#141: Intentional Relationship Building--Start Tomorrow - A Principal's Perspective by Jill Beam - Washington Elem episode artwork
#140
Today at 10:00 AM

Topic: Intentional Relationship Building--Start Tomorrow

Jill Beam

Building Principal

Washington Elementary School

USD 418, McPherson, Kansas

 

REGISTER FOR THE 2026 KPA CONFERENCE

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop and support all principals through optimized learning, collaborative leadership, networking, and service. Read more about the KPA HERE.

YOUR input on Cool Coffee is WANTED! Click HERE to share thoughts and interest for you or a colleague on being on the...


CC#140: The Drip Effect with Principal, Author, Speaker - Dr. Jessica Cabeen (KPA Conference Keynote Speaker)
CC#140: The Drip Effect with Principal, Author, Speaker - Dr. Jessica Cabeen (KPA Conference Keynote Speaker) episode artwork
#141
Yesterday at 10:00 AM

Show Summary

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Cabeen shares her journey through various educational roles, her insights on leadership, balancing work and family, and introduces her latest book, The Drip Effect: Breaking Free From Hustle Culture. Also a keynote speaker at the November 4th/5th KPA principal conference in Wichita, Dr. Cabeen discusses ongoing learning, practical strategies for effective leadership, prioritization, and self-care from a seasoned principal. This fun conversation also provides a preview of Dr. Cabeen will talk about in November!

Connect with Dr. Cabeen on LinkedIn.

 

REGISTER FOR THE 2026 K...


CC#139: Collaboration District-wide - Building a Lancer Legacy - A Principal's Perspective by April Baugh - Spearville Elem.
CC#139: Collaboration District-wide - Building a Lancer Legacy - A Principal's Perspective by April Baugh - Spearville Elem. episode artwork
#137
Last Wednesday at 10:00 AM

Topic: Building A Lancer Legacy (Collaboration across the district) 

Principal April Baugh

Spearville Elementary School

USD 381-Spearville 

FB- April Hosheit Baugh

 

REGISTER FOR THE 2026 KPA CONFERENCE

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop and support all principals through optimized learning, collaborative leadership, networking, and service. Read more about the KPA HERE.

YOUR input on Cool Coffee is WANTED! Click HERE to share thoughts and interest for you or a c...


CC#138: A Communication Lesson in Six Words - A Principal's Perspective by Rick Sola - Chisholm Trail MS
CC#138: A Communication Lesson in Six Words - A Principal's Perspective by Rick Sola - Chisholm Trail MS episode artwork
#134
Last Tuesday at 10:00 AM

Topic: A Communication Lesson in Six Words

Principal Rick Sola

Chisholm Trail Middle School

Olathe Public Schools - USD 233

REGISTER FOR THE 2026 KPA CONFERENCE

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop and support all principals through optimized learning, collaborative leadership, networking, and service. Read more about the KPA HERE.

YOUR input on Cool Coffee is WANTED! Click HERE to share thoughts and interest for you or a colleague on being on th...


CC#137: Monday Ramp! - A Principal's Perspective by Ryan Creadick - Kingman Elem.
CC#137: Monday Ramp! - A Principal's Perspective by Ryan Creadick - Kingman Elem. episode artwork
#138
Last Monday at 10:00 AM

Topic - Monday Ramp! Start the week with an all school gathering.

Ryan Creadick

Principal

Kingman Elementary School 

USD 331 Kingman Norwich

Instagram - @mr.pickleheadkes_eagle

------------------------------------

REGISTER FOR THE 2026 KPA CONFERENCE

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop and support all principals through optimized learning, collaborative leadership, networking, and service. Read more about the KPA HERE.

YOUR input on Cool Coffee is WANTED! Click HERE...


CC#136: Learning to Let Go - A Principal's Perspective by Jenny Steele - Manchester Park Elem.
CC#136: Learning to Let Go - A Principal's Perspective by Jenny Steele - Manchester Park Elem. episode artwork
#139
10/16/2026

Topic: Learning to Let Go

Principal Jenny Steele

Manchester Park Elementary School

USD233

--------------------------------

REGISTER FOR THE 2026 KPA CONFERENCE

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop and support all principals through optimized learning, collaborative leadership, networking, and service. Read more about the KPA HERE.

YOUR input on Cool Coffee is WANTED! Click HERE to share thoughts and interest for you or a colleague on being on the show!

...


CC#135: Taking Care of YOU - A Principal's Perspective by Kelly Whittaker - Ottawa HS
CC#135: Taking Care of YOU - A Principal's Perspective by Kelly Whittaker - Ottawa HS episode artwork
#136
10/15/2026

Topic: Taking Care of YOU!

Principal Kelly Whittaker

Ottawa High School

USD 290

 

REGISTER FOR THE 2026 KPA CONFERENCE

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop and support all principals through optimized learning, collaborative leadership, networking, and service. Read more about the KPA HERE.

YOUR input on Cool Coffee is WANTED! Click HERE to share thoughts and interest for you or a colleague on being on the show!

Click for...


CC#134: Making the Most Out of Fall Parent-Teacher Conferences - A Principal's Perspective by Joel Wells - Elmont Elem.
CC#134: Making the Most Out of Fall Parent-Teacher Conferences - A Principal's Perspective by Joel Wells - Elmont Elem. episode artwork
#135
10/14/2026

Topic: Making the Most Out of Fall Parent-Teacher Conferences

Principal Joel Wells

Elmont Elementary School

Seaman Schools, USD 345

 

REGISTER FOR THE 2026 KPA CONFERENCE

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop and support all principals through optimized learning, collaborative leadership, networking, and service. Read more about the KPA HERE.

YOUR input on Cool Coffee is WANTED! Click HERE to share thoughts and interest for you or a colleague on being on...


CC#133: Relationships...Especially When Difficult - A Principal's Perspective by Dr. Megan Hankins - Louisburg MS
CC#133: Relationships...Especially When Difficult - A Principal's Perspective by Dr. Megan Hankins - Louisburg MS episode artwork
#133
10/13/2026

Topic: Relationships...Especially When Difficult

Dr. Megan Hankins

Principal

Louisburg Middle School

 

REGISTER FOR THE 2026 KPA CONFERENCE

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop and support all principals through optimized learning, collaborative leadership, networking, and service. Read more about the KPA HERE.

YOUR input on Cool Coffee is WANTED! Click HERE to share thoughts and interest for you or a colleague on being on the show!

Click for...


CC#132: Common Sense and the Little Things - A Principal's Perspective by Eric Sacco - Clifton-Clyde Elem/MS
CC#132: Common Sense and the Little Things - A Principal's Perspective by Eric Sacco - Clifton-Clyde Elem/MS episode artwork
#132
10/12/2026

Topic: Common Sense and the Little Things

Eric Sacco

PreK-8 Principal

Clifton-Clyde Grade and Middle School

USD 224

@SaccoEric

REGISTER FOR THE 2026 KPA CONFERENCE

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop and support all principals through optimized learning, collaborative leadership, networking, and service. Read more about the KPA HERE.

YOUR input on Cool Coffee is WANTED! Click HERE to share thoughts and interest for you or a colleague on...


CC#131: Scoreboards - A Principal's Perspective by Stefanie Lane - Lincoln Elementary
CC#131: Scoreboards - A Principal's Perspective by Stefanie Lane - Lincoln Elementary episode artwork
#131
10/09/2026

Perspective Topic: Scoreboards

Stefanie Lane Building Principal Lincoln Elementary  USD 379/ KS https://www.facebook.com/lincolncubpride

REGISTER FOR THE 2026 KPA CONFERENCE

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop and support all principals through optimized learning, collaborative leadership, networking, and service. Read more about the KPA HERE.

YOUR input on Cool Coffee is WANTED! Click HERE to share thoughts and interest for you or a colleague on being on the show!

Click for ALL Cool Coffee epi...


CC#130: Rewards and Challenges with 2026 Kansas APOY Sarah Thomas - Ross Elementary
CC#130: Rewards and Challenges with 2026 Kansas APOY Sarah Thomas - Ross Elementary episode artwork
#130
10/08/2026

Episode Summary

Sarah Thomas, 2026 Kansas Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year and current AP at Ross Elementary School in Dodge City, Kansas, shares her journey, insights, and the rewarding challenges of educational leadership. Discover how her dynamic approach and community focus drive success and foster a positive school culture.

Connect with the guest: Sarah Thomas

USD 443 - Dodge City

 

REGISTER FOR THE 2026 KPA CONFERENCE

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop an...


CC#129: Make It Easy to Do the Right Thing - A Principal's Perspective by Inge Esping - McPherson MS
CC#129: Make It Easy to Do the Right Thing - A Principal's Perspective by Inge Esping - McPherson MS episode artwork
#128
10/07/2026

Topic: Make It Easy to Do the Right Thing

Inge Esping

Principal

McPherson Middle School

USD 418 McPherson Public Schools

X - @Mac Middle Pups

FB - @MMSBullpups

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop and support all principals through optimized learning, collaborative leadership, networking, and service. Read more about the KPA HERE.

YOUR input on Cool Coffee is WANTED! Click HERE to share thoughts and interest for yo...


CC#128: The Almost Mentality - A Principal's Perspective by Toby Ruder - Summit Trail MS
CC#128: The Almost Mentality - A Principal's Perspective by Toby Ruder - Summit Trail MS episode artwork
#129
10/06/2026

Topic: The Almost Mentality

Toby Ruder

Principal

Summit Trail Middle School

Olathe Public Schools - USD 233

 

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop and support all principals through optimized learning, collaborative leadership, networking, and service. Read more about the KPA HERE.

YOUR input on Cool Coffee is WANTED! Click HERE to share thoughts and interest for you or a colleague on being on the show!

Click for ALL...


CC#127: Maximizing Your Building Leadership Team - A Principal's Perspective by Frank Bell - Gardner-Edgerton HS
CC#127: Maximizing Your Building Leadership Team - A Principal's Perspective by Frank Bell - Gardner-Edgerton HS episode artwork
#125
10/05/2026

Topic: Maximizing Your Building Leadership Team

Principal Frank Bell

Gardner-Edgerton High School 

USD231

REGISTER FOR THE 2026 KPA CONFERENCE

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop and support all principals through optimized learning, collaborative leadership, networking, and service. Read more about the KPA HERE.

YOUR input on Cool Coffee is WANTED! Click HERE to share thoughts and interest for you or a colleague on being on the show!

Click for ALL...


CC#126: The Importance of Trust - A Principal's Perspective by Danielle Ambrosia - State College Area HS
CC#126: The Importance of Trust - A Principal's Perspective by Danielle Ambrosia - State College Area HS episode artwork
#127
10/02/2026

Topic: The Importance of Trust

Danielle Ambrosia

Assistant Principal - State College Area High School, Pennsylvania 2026 APOY

State College Area School District

@apambrosia on IG

 

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop and support all principals through optimized learning, collaborative leadership, networking, and service. Read more about the KPA HERE.

YOUR input on Cool Coffee is WANTED! Click HERE to share thoughts and interest for you or a colleague on...


CC#125: Inspire Greatness - A Principal's Perspective by Travis Rogers - Wichita South HS
CC#125: Inspire Greatness - A Principal's Perspective by Travis Rogers - Wichita South HS episode artwork
#126
10/01/2026

Topic: Inspire Greatness

Travis Rogers

Principal

Wichita South High School

USD259 Wichita, KS

X - @travisrogers83

 

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop and support all principals through optimized learning, collaborative leadership, networking, and service. Read more about the KPA HERE.

YOUR input on Cool Coffee is WANTED! Click HERE to share thoughts and interest for you or a colleague on being on the show!

Cli...


CC#124: Learn and Earn with Ohio 2026 APOY Deanna Elsing
CC#124: Learn and Earn with Ohio 2026 APOY Deanna Elsing episode artwork
#124
09/24/2026

2026 Ohio Assistant Principal of the Year, Deanna Elsing, Associate Principal of Mayfield High School in Mayfield, Ohio*, discusses the innovative "Learn and Earn" program employed at Mayfield High School. This program provides students with paid work experiences in various trades and industries, emphasizing soft skills, career exploration, and real-world readiness. Recorded over the summer, conversation also gets into the different pace of the summer months...enjoy!

*Since recording, Deanna has accepted a position as the Director of Secondary Education for the Auburn Career Center.

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Leave a like and leave a comment...


CC#123: Leadership from the Dance Floor and the Balcony with Principal Justin Coffey - Ulysses HS - USD 214
CC#123: Leadership from the Dance Floor and the Balcony with Principal Justin Coffey - Ulysses HS - USD 214 episode artwork
#123
09/10/2026

Episode Summary

Principal Justin Coffey from Ulysses High School, USD 214, shares his journey from a high school teacher to a principal, emphasizing the importance of leadership balance, intentionality, and community in education. Discover practical insights on managing school responsibilities and fostering a strong school culture through Justin's "dance floor vs balcony" analogy.

 

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Leave a like and leave a comment for this episode and Cool Coffee with Kansas Principals on your favorite podcast platform!

Contact the guest: Principal Justin Coffey

Contact Cool Coffee host, Principal Rick S...


CC#122: Leadership Lessons from Louisiana's 2026 POY - Justin Wax
CC#122: Leadership Lessons from Louisiana's 2026 POY - Justin Wax episode artwork
#122
08/27/2026

Episode Summary

In this engaging interview, 2026 Louisiana Principal of the Year, Justin Wax of Denham Springs Junior High School, shares insights on leadership, school culture, community engagement, and effective communication strategies that foster a thriving educational environment.

 

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Leave a like and leave a comment for this episode and Cool Coffee with Kansas Principals on your favorite podcast platform!

 

Connect with Principal Wax:

Email: Justin Wax

 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Community Engagement
02:55 The Importance of School Cul...


CC#121: Culture, Routines, and PLCs with Principal Ariel Jankord Lincoln Elementary - USD 290
CC#121: Culture, Routines, and PLCs with Principal Ariel Jankord Lincoln Elementary - USD 290 episode artwork
#121
08/13/2026

In this episode, Ariel Jankord shares her insights on building strong PLCs, establishing effective routines at the start of the school year, and creating a positive school culture. She discusses practical strategies for principals to foster collaboration, set expectations, and support staff development.

Connect with Principal Jankord:

Email: Ariel Jankord

More Cool Coffee Episodes Featuring Ariel Jankord:

CC#58: "Leading from the Extremes" - A Principal's Perspective 

Click for ALL Cool Coffee episodes

Contact Cool Coffee host, Principal Rick Sola: [email protected] or [email protected]

T...


CC#120: Season 3 Kickoff! Goals and Insights from KPA President Kelly Whittaker
CC#120: Season 3 Kickoff! Goals and Insights from KPA President Kelly Whittaker episode artwork
#120
07/30/2026

In this episode, Kelly Whitaker, president of the Kansas Principals Association, shares insights on leadership, advocacy, and building community within the educational sector. She discusses upcoming conferences, the importance of networking, and how principals can serve their profession effectively. In addition, Kelly answer fun, quick-hitter questions from host Rick Sola.

Connect with Principal Whittaker:

Email: Kelly Whitaker

LinkedIn
Kansas Principals Association

More Cool Coffee Episodes Featuring Kelly Whittaker:

CC#20: IPS Success at Ottawa HS: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-syet8-171299b

CC#30: “The Interview Episode”: http...


CC#119: Season 2...That's a Wrap!
CC#119: Season 2...That's a Wrap! episode artwork
#119
06/04/2026

In this episode, Kansas Principal and Cool Coffee Host, Rick Sola, wraps up season two of "Cool Coffee," sharing insights on current trends in education technology and AI, while also inviting principals nationwide to engage with the podcast for its upcoming season 3rd season. Connect with our host using the links below!

Cool Coffee Episodes Featuring Discussion on AI:
Cool Coffee #31: Artificial Intelligence with Trevor Goertzen

Cool Coffee #116: AI as a competitive advantage with Dr. Michael Martin

Contact Cool Coffee host, Principal Rick Sola: [email protected] or [email protected]

...


CC#118: Innovative Strategies for Effective PBIS in High Schools w/ Dr. Danelle Ambrosia - State College Area HS - PA APOY 2026
CC#118: Innovative Strategies for Effective PBIS in High Schools w/ Dr. Danelle Ambrosia - State College Area HS - PA APOY 2026 episode artwork
#116
05/21/2026

In this episode of Cool Coffee, 2026 Pennsylvania Assistant Principal of the Year, Dr. Danielle Ambrosia, shares her insights on implementing and evolving PBIS in a high school setting. Discover how her team has successfully fostered a positive school culture through innovative strategies like mental health summits, recognition coins, and transparent leadership. Yes, PBIS works in the high schools too!

Connect with the Dr. Ambrosia

-----------------------------------------------------

Contact Cool Coffee host, Principal Rick Sola: [email protected] or [email protected]

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational exc...


CC#117: Career Reflections from the Many Chairs w/ Principal Mike Wiley (USD 233) and Asst. Superintendent of Special Education Dr. Mark Schmidt (USD 229)
CC#117: Career Reflections from the Many Chairs w/ Principal Mike Wiley (USD 233) and Asst. Superintendent of Special Education Dr. Mark Schmidt (USD 229) episode artwork
#115
05/07/2026

SHOW SUMMARY:

In this heartfelt conversation, two seasoned educators, Mike Wiley, Principal of California Trail Middle School of Olathe Public Schools (USD 233) and Dr. Mark Schmidt, Assistant Superintendent of Special Education in the Blue Valley School District (USD 229), both retiring at the end of the 2025-26 school year, share insights on their careers, leadership, and the evolving landscape of education. They reflect on impactful moments, mentorship, and the importance of resilience, listening, and purpose in shaping future educators.

Connect with the guests:

Mike Wiley

Dr. Mark Schmidt

Other Cool...


CC#116: Turning AI into a Competitive Advantage w/ Dr. Michael Martin - 2024 Ohio POY
CC#116: Turning AI into a Competitive Advantage w/ Dr. Michael Martin - 2024 Ohio POY episode artwork
#114
04/23/2026

In this insightful interview, Dr. Michael Martin, a high school principal and AI enthusiast, shares his journey with AI, its impact on education, and practical strategies for integrating AI responsibly in schools. Discover how AI can be a powerful tool for teachers and students alike, and learn about the innovative approaches at Buckeye Central High School. Principal Martin is also the 2024 Principal of the Year from Ohio and published author on the subject.

Connect with the guest: [email protected]

Books by Michael Martin:

Blending Instruction with Technology AI Powered Leadership: 50 Prompts to...


CC#115: Better Together--One School/One Culture/Two Rivals w/ Derek Cantrell - Alleghany HS - Covington, VA
CC#115: Better Together--One School/One Culture/Two Rivals w/ Derek Cantrell - Alleghany HS - Covington, VA episode artwork
#113
04/09/2026

Principal Derek Cantrell is the 2026 Virginia Principal of the Year from Alleghany High School in the Alleghany Highlands Public School District located in Covington, Virginia. He is also author to the book Better Together: Building One School, One Culture, and One Community from Two Rivals. In this episode of Cool Coffee, Principal Cantrell shares insights on school consolidation, community engagement, and leadership strategies. He discusses the journey of merging two high schools, maintaining traditions, and fostering a positive culture to ensure success. 

Connect with the guest: [email protected]

Connect on X: @d...


CC#114: Retirement and the Principal w/ Stacey Green - Stockton PreK-8
CC#114: Retirement and the Principal w/ Stacey Green - Stockton PreK-8 episode artwork
#112
03/26/2026

In this episode of Cool Coffee, Kansas principal Stacey Green shares her journey to retirement, insights on leadership, decision-making, and the importance of self-care in educational leadership.

Connect with the guest: [email protected] 

Connect on X: @usd271sgs

References from the show:
Emily P. Freeman - The Next Right Thing
Emily P. Freeman - How to Walk into a Room

Cool Coffee Episodes Featuring Stacey Green: #4, #22, #65, & #89

---------------------------------

Contact host Principal Rick Sola: [email protected] or [email protected]

The mission of the ...


CC#113: The Aspiring Administrator - A Panel w/ Dr. Todd Dain
CC#113: The Aspiring Administrator - A Panel w/ Dr. Todd Dain episode artwork
#110
03/12/2026

In this episode of Cool Coffee with Kansas Principals, host Rick Sola engages with a panel of aspiring administrators from Kansas. They share their motivations for pursuing leadership roles in education, the challenges and excitement they anticipate, and the importance of mentorship and networking in their journeys. The conversation highlights the transformative power of education and the vital role of school leaders in shaping positive school cultures. The panelists reflect on their experiences, the traits they admire in current administrators, and the significance of being authentic and real in leadership roles.

Connect with the panel (email):
...


CC#112: Advocacy in DC w/ Principals Heath Henderson (Skelly Elem) and Kurt Seiler (Independence HS)
CC#112: Advocacy in DC w/ Principals Heath Henderson (Skelly Elem) and Kurt Seiler (Independence HS) episode artwork
#111
02/26/2026

This episode of Cool Coffee w/ Kansas Principals features principals Heath Henderson of Skelly Elementary School in El Dorado, Kansas and Kurt Seiler of Independence High School in Independence, Kansas sharing their recent advocacy trip to Washington, DC. They highlight the importance of genuine connections with policymakers, the impact of advocacy on education, and their personal experiences touring the Capitol and meeting with officials. Principals Henderson, Seiler, and host, Rick Sola, also discuss their 2026 principals of the year award for the state of Kansas and the honor it has been to receive such an recognition.

Connect with...


CC#111: Homegrown, Hometown Pride w/ Principal Eric Filippi of Wichita Heights - USD 259
CC#111: Homegrown, Hometown Pride w/ Principal Eric Filippi of Wichita Heights - USD 259 episode artwork
#109
02/12/2026

In this episode of Cool Coffee with Kansas principals, host Rick Sola interviews Principal Eric Filippi, the principal of Wichita Heights High School. They discuss Eric's journey from student to principal, the importance of building relationships with students, and innovative programs implemented at Wichita Heights. Eric shares insights on community engagement, the significance of alumni connections, and advice for new administrators, emphasizing self-care and teamwork in educational leadership.

Connect with Principal Filippi

Contact host Principal Rick Sola: [email protected] or [email protected]

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization com...


CC#110: Relationships, Clarity, Routines w/ Dawn Chase - Horton Elementary School - USD 430
CC#110: Relationships, Clarity, Routines w/ Dawn Chase - Horton Elementary School - USD 430 episode artwork
#108
01/29/2026

Episode Summary

In this episode of Cool Coffee with Kansas principals, host Rick Sola speaks with Dawn Chase, principal of Horton Elementary School. They discuss Dawn's journey in education, the challenges of school consolidation, and her transition to principalship. Dawn emphasizes the importance of establishing relationships with staff, creating clear procedures and routines, and managing time effectively. She shares valuable advice for new principals, highlights the significance of self-care, and celebrates the supportive community at Horton Elementary.

Connect with the Principal Dawn Chase (email)

Connect with Cool Coffee Host Rick Sola: rfsola@olatheschools...


CC#109: Communication, Culture, and Beyond w/ Shawn Henderson - Hays HS, USD 489
CC#109: Communication, Culture, and Beyond w/ Shawn Henderson - Hays HS, USD 489 episode artwork
#107
01/15/2026

The 2024 Kansas Secondary Principal of the Year, Principal Shawn Henderson of Hays High School in Hays, Kansas, joins the show and discusses the challenges and triumphs of opening a new school building and shares insights from his dual role as a principal and project manager, emphasizing the importance of planning, teamwork, and culture. He also explores the value of mentorship, and strategies for effective communication and time management within a school setting. Shawn also shares specific efforts he and his team made to protect time of teachers in the after school hours. This episode also demonstrates how the job...


CC#108: Reflections, Goals, and Connections w/ Cool Coffee Host Rick Sola
CC#108: Reflections, Goals, and Connections w/ Cool Coffee Host Rick Sola episode artwork
#106
01/01/2026

In this episode of KPA's Cool Coffee, host Rick Sola reflects on the new year and what a break means for the building principal. He discusses the challenges school principals face as they prepare for the second semester as well as new goals moving forward into the second half of the school year. Sola also highlights Cool Coffee as a platform for principals to connect, share insights, and support one another in their leadership roles. Check out the entire Cool Coffee archive for personal and professional growth!

Contact the host: [email protected] or [email protected]

...


CC#107: Opening a New School w/ Courtney Domoney - Wolf Springs MS, Blue Valley USD 229
CC#107: Opening a New School w/ Courtney Domoney - Wolf Springs MS, Blue Valley USD 229 episode artwork
#105
12/18/2025

Episode Summary

In this conversation, Cool Coffee host, Rick Sola, interviews Courtney Domoney, the principal of the upcoming Wolf Springs Middle School in Blue Valley School District. They discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of opening a new school, including the importance of building a strong team, creating a welcoming culture, and engaging with the community. Courtney shares her journey in education, her vision for the new school, and the significance of the 'runway year' she has to prepare for the opening in August 2026.

Connect with the guest: 

Email: [email protected]


CC#106: Navigating School Leadership (part 2) - Principal Panel w/ Simmons, Woolever, Cave, and Rogers
CC#106: Navigating School Leadership (part 2) - Principal Panel w/ Simmons, Woolever, Cave, and Rogers episode artwork
#104
12/04/2025

(part 2 of 2) In this episode of "Cool Coffee," host Rick Sola moderates a panel of four principals from Kansas, discussing their journeys into administration and the challenges they face. The panelists, including principals Midge Simmons, Dr. Jenny Woolever, Robert Cave, and Travis Rogers, share personal stories about their motivations for becoming administrators, the importance of authenticity and trust in leadership, and strategies for managing school culture and crises. They also offer advice to aspiring administrators, emphasizing the value of networking, being authentic, and taking risks. Questions to the panel came from Baker University Fall 2025 cohort of future administrators.

<...


CC#105: Navigating School Leadership (part 1) - Principal Panel w/ Simmons, Woolever, Cave, and Rogers
CC#105: Navigating School Leadership (part 1) - Principal Panel w/ Simmons, Woolever, Cave, and Rogers episode artwork
#103
11/20/2025

(part 1 of 2) In this episode of "Cool Coffee," host Rick Sola moderates a panel of four principals from Kansas, discussing their journeys into administration and the challenges they face. The panelists, including principals Midge Simmons, Dr. Jenny Woolever, Robert Cave, and Travis Rogers, share personal stories about their motivations for becoming administrators, the importance of authenticity and trust in leadership, and strategies for managing school culture and crises. They also offer advice to aspiring administrators, emphasizing the value of networking, being authentic, and taking risks. Questions to the panel came from Baker University Fall 2025 cohort of future administrators.

<...


CC#104: Student Recognition - A Principal's Perspective by Frank Bell - Gardner-Edgerton HS
CC#104: Student Recognition - A Principal's Perspective by Frank Bell - Gardner-Edgerton HS episode artwork
#102
11/06/2025

Topic: Student Recognition

Mr. Frank Bell

Gardner-Edgerton High School Principal

X: @bellfgehs

 

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop and support all principals through optimized learning, collaborative leadership, networking, and service. Read more about the KPA HERE.

YOUR input on Cool Coffee is NEEDED! Click HERE to share thoughts and interest for you or a colleague on being on the show!

Click for ALL Cool Coffee episodes!

Conn...


CC#103: School-wide "House" System w/ Principal Brian Barackman - Indian Trail Middle School
CC#103: School-wide "House" System w/ Principal Brian Barackman - Indian Trail Middle School episode artwork
#101
11/04/2025

Summary

In this 103rd episode of Cool Coffee w/ Kansas Principals, Principal Brian Barackman shares the unique house system at Indian Trail Middle School in USD 233. Discussed is how this system fosters community and enhances the student experience through its building and camaraderie amongst grade-levels. Mr. Barackman connects what his school is doing with the house system and its PBIS system. Listen in to hear more from another Kansas principal doing great work for kids and staff!

Connect with Mr. Barackman:

Email

X: @BarackmanBrian

Show Reference: Ron Clark Academy<...


CC#102: Instructional Leadership Doesn't have to be Scary! - A Principal's Perspective by Barney Pontious - Garfield Elem.
CC#102: Instructional Leadership Doesn't have to be Scary! - A Principal's Perspective by Barney Pontious - Garfield Elem. episode artwork
#93
10/31/2025

Instructional Leadership Doesn't have to be Scary! 

Barney Pontious Principal Garfield Elementary USD 503 X= @mr_pontious Garfield Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GarfieldSchoolParsonsKS

Sign up to submit your own Principal's Perspective!

The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop and support all principals through optimized learning, collaborative leadership, networking, and service. Read more about the KPA HERE.

YOUR input on Cool Coffee is NEEDED! Click HERE to share thoughts and interest for you or a colleague on being on the...