What does it take to lead with trust, transform a district, and ensure a legacy that isn’t about you—but about everyone? In this inspiring episode of Little Wins, Karen Borchert sits down with Alison Canter, Director of Student Services at Charleston CUSD #1, who believes school culture isn’t built with slogans—it’s built in the everyday work of connection, ownership, and shared leadership.
From revitalizing family engagement to empowering paraprofessionals and creating student-led initiatives that actually work, Alison opens up about the small moves that have made a huge difference. She shares stories of joy, intentionality, and community—all rooted in one powerful belief: it’s not about being the hero. It’s about building something that lasts.
Whether you’re leading a school, a district, or a hallway—this episode is packed with practical takeaways for creating a school culture where everyone belongs, and everyone leads.
💡 Little Wins in This Episode:
- A Culture That Outlasts the Leader: Alison’s mission isn’t about being the center—it’s about building systems and community that thrive whether she’s there or not.
- Everyone Has a Seat at the Table: From paraprofessionals to students, Alison creates structures that elevate every voice and make people feel truly seen and valued.
- Start With Listening, End With Trust: Her approach to culture change begins with opening doors—literally—and inviting families, staff, and students into meaningful conversations.
- Celebration as a Leadership Strategy: Staff meetings kick off with wins, not just updates—because recognition fuels resilience and relationships.
- Students With Purpose: Through programs like PA Ambassadors and student jobs, kids aren’t just part of the system—they’re helping lead it.
Timestamps:
05:14 School Transformation and Community Dedication
07:33 "Reopening Doors Post-COVID"
10:44 Community Education Collaboration Success
14:54 "Relationships Before Scores"
16:35 New Leader's Successful Start
22:12 Core Values: Safety, Learning, Love
22:44 Staff Committees for School Growth
28:26 Reflecting on Education Changes
30:13 Counselors Navigate Student Needs
35:31 Teacher Pen Pals Enhance Connection
38:48 Perseverance in Adversity
39:23 "Million-Word Reader's Emotional Triumph"
42:55 "Building Inclusive School Communities"
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🧵 About the Podcast:
Little Wins is the podcast that digs into the small, deliberate actions school leaders are taking to build strong, human-centered cultures.
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What is Little Wins?
Little Wins is a podcast that shines a light on the small moments making a big impact in schools. Hosted by Karen Borchert, each episode features courageous conversations with principals, heads of school, and superintendents who are building trust, sparking belonging, and shaping culture—one hallway celebration, heartfelt gesture, or coffee-fueled conversation at a time.
Because in education, it’s the little things that often matter most—and they’re the reason people stay.