Lauren Kaufman—leadership coach, author, and district-level practitioner—joins us to discuss why effective leadership starts with staying close to the classroom. She shares how coaching mindsets, high-quality observation and feedback, and intentional use of AI can help leaders build trust, support teacher growth, and design learning that actually reaches students. Together, we unpack how leaders can balance data and humanity, reduce fear-based cultures, and create schools where adults and students feel seen, capable, and ready for what’s next.