Wife, mom, teacher, leader 👠
Principal I Author I Speaker
President-Elect of The Maryland Association of Elementary School Principals
@ASCD
Faculty Member
In 2005, I interviewed for a teacher job at Waterloo. Unfortunately, I didn't do well & didn't get it.
19 years later, I'm back at Waterloo but this time as principal! We always end up where we're supposed to be, even if it takes some time ❤️
Happy first day of school
@HCPSS
!
My heart is full! I had the pleasure of seeing one of my former kindergarten students graduate from college & moving on to become an Army officer! So proud of him!
These are the moments of joy that help define our life's work as educators! Our bond will last a lifetime ❤️
@ASCD
Thank you to the entire Waterloo school community for your incredibly kind and warm welcome!
I'm beyond excited to partner with our leadership team, staff, and families to help ensure the best educational outcomes for all students!
Very grateful for the opportunity to serve ❤️
It's time for new beginnings!
I've experienced tremendous joy serving as both AP & Principal of Waverly! I'll cherish every memory!
Next year, I'm excited to be Principal of Waterloo Elementary, a National Blue Ribbon School!
Thank you for the opportunity to serve ❤️
@HCPSS
This is my new favorite T-shirt to wear on vacation!
For the next week, I'm a principal off duty, relaxing and recharging! It's important that we take time to rest so we can continue to serve others at our best!
@NAESP
@fit_leaders
Congrats to my mentee & friend Whitney on her promotion to Assistant Principal! She's worked hard to grow at every stage of her career moving from a paraeducator to a special education teacher to central office & now, a school based leader!
Excited for her next chapter!
@HCPSS
Recently, I was challenged to a Principal vs. Kids push-up contest!
Did I win? No, but it was fun & I'm excited to start the new year with positive student relationships! That's a win/win in my book!
Let's infuse more joy in school this year!
@fit_leaders
@Maespmd
@NAESP
When educators are feeling overwhelmed, one of the simplest things we can do to maintain joy is focus on one child that we've positively impacted. While we can't be everything to everybody, we can always be someone to somebody❤️
For more resources, visit:
I recently met Dr. Brad Johnson, one of my favorite authors for teacher and leader development!
His quote, "A good leader cares about who you are, while a great leader cares about who you could become" encourages us to see the potential in everyone we serve!
TY
@DrBradJohnson
!
Always go after your dreams and keep learning and growing!
You never know who you're inspiring in the process 🩷
Wishing you a wonderful school year!
@ASCD
I'm extremely excited to return to The AP and New Principals Academy with
@PrincipalKafele
next weekend!
Save the date for Saturday, June 1st at 10:55am streaming live on all platforms!
Remember to bring a thought partner with you and join in the conversation! Let's go! ✨️
We'll be opening our doors to students in just a few weeks! Beyond excited for an amazing school year at Waterloo ES!
What a privilege it is to serve children every day!
@NAESP
Blessed to share that I was recently nominated for Howard County Magazine's Reader's Choice 2023 "Best Principal" Award & was the runner up! My heart is full! ❤️
Congratulations to all the nominees and winners! See the full article in
@baltimoresun
here:
One of my favorite days of the year The Principal of the Day! This year, my co-Principal was a 5th grader who came dressed for success! We visited classrooms, rode the elevator & did a safety drill!
He even came early to school to do car duty in the rain with me and greet kids!
I'm attending my first National Conference this week for Elementary School Principals! Can't wait to make new connections and learn during the incredible leadership sessions!
@NAESP
@NAESP_Zone_3
#naesp23
Thank you Principal Kafele for a powerful session at the
@NAESP
@NASSP
United Conference!
You encouraged leaders to add value to our schools by fully supporting teachers/staff as they deliver high quality instruction to all students!
Thank you for your message
@PrincipalKafele
We had a great session today! I emphasized the importance of continuing to grow & develop as teachers & leaders so we can maximize our positive impact on the students, staff, and communities we serve!
Remember to do something each day that your future self will thank you for ❤️
Very excited to be in Nashville, TN this week to learn alongside so many amazing leaders at The National Conference on School Leadership!
I'm also attending in my new role as President-Elect of MAESP! Let's connect soon❤️
We're
#principalsUNITED
!
@Maespmd
@NAESP
@NASSP
This is one of my favorite pictures ever... Dress like your favorite staff member day!
As leaders, we'll never know just how far our influence extends, but we can be assured that the work we do every day matters ❤️
My high school
#track
record in the 300 meter hurdles was just broken!
24 years ago, I set the record and am thrilled to see the legacy continue! I loved meeting her recently! She is so sweet and her future is very bright!
Congratulations!🧡🖤
@fit_leaders
@hcpss_omhs
No matter what level of leadership we ascend to, we'll always be teachers first!
Whether it's modeling part of a lesson for new teachers or simply covering a class on the fly as a substitute, it's critical for administrators to keep learning & stay connected to the classroom!
Our school is celebrating some wonderful news to start the new year! Congratulations to our students, staff, and families on this recognition! I love serving as principal of this incredible school 💙💛
I loved presenting at
@ASCD
on cultivating teacher leaders from within!
Years ago, my principal said "I think you could be a principal one day, have you considered it?" My first response was no, but with her mentoring, it became a yes!
Always tap into the potential of others❤️
Had to add another T-shirt to my summer vacation collection! Very happy to be an "Educator on Cruise Control!" 🏝
This week, I'm speaking in Mexico at a PD at Sea Teacher Conference! Learn more below & join us in Washington, DC, August 3-4! See you soon!
Kindergarten, here we come! Today, students & families are coming in to see their new classrooms, meeting their teachers, and dropping off school supplies!
I can't wait to see all the smiles in the building for open house!
Serving as a school principal is the BEST!
@NAESP
It brings such joy to see my former kindergarten students graduating from high school! So grateful for teacher/student relationships that last a lifetime! 😊 Congratulations to the
@HCPSS
class of '22! We know you'll achieve great things!
@mjmsuper
@hcpss_mhhs
#graduation2022
Principal Kafele held a powerful learning session for our school district today! He challenged all staff to walk in our purpose, reflect, & improve so that our students can continue to benefit from our gifts and talents!
Thank you for your empowering message
@PrincipalKafele
!
When you're connected with positive leaders who help you become better personally and professionally, you thrive!
Thank you
@NAESP
&
@NASSP
for motivating principals to keep learning, growing, & forging strong bonds as we serve our staff, students, and communities!
@Maespmd
Happy last day of school
@HCPSS
!
What a wonderful year of leadership, growth, & learning!
To every educator, THANK YOU for being a difference maker in the life of a child! Have a restful and rejuvenating summer break! Do all the things that bring you the most JOY! 🌟
@ASCD
Yesterday our staff returned to school and we did something new! Instead of sitting for a traditional PD meeting, we had breakfast & then visited students & families at their bus stops! Everyone loved it!
It was a perfect way to start the new year and build excitement!
@HCPSS
Spent the day learning from two of my favorite educational leaders at the
@ASCD
conference! Thank you
@ToddWhitaker
and
@PrincipalKafele
for inspiring teachers and leaders everywhere to be at our best so that all students under our care can reach their highest potential!
As you're relaxing this summer and planning for next school year, remember to take time to invest in your own leadership growth too!
Add my book, "The Principal's Journey: Navigating the Path to School Leadership" to your summer reading list today!
Link:
When you visit a pre-k classroom & the kids ask you to sit down for an impromptu hair appointment 😆
The best moments happen in schools every day!
@NAESP
@Maespmd
This year, let's celebrate every achievement in our schools, both big and small! This helps to create an environment where everyone is inspired to do their best!
Let's celebrate a great school year!
@NAESP
@NASSP
Are you ready for some summer fun? Come put your spelling and puzzle solving skills to the test with me!
I'll be on LINGO on CBS August 2nd at 8pm EST! I hope you enjoy watching and playing along with your family!
Wish me and my partner Julia good luck! T-H-A-N-K Y-O-U!
It brings great joy to see my former kindergarten students graduating from college! 16 years ago, I was early in my career & now, my students are beginning their own journeys. I'm excited to watch her blossom & am grateful for student/teacher relationships that last a lifetime❤️
“Everybody can be great because everybody can serve. You only need a heart full of grace, a soul generated by love.”
― Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Thank you Dr. King for your legacy. We are better leaders when we serve with the foundation of love.
#MLKDay2024
#MLK
Growing up as a young child, I always knew I wanted to be a teacher, but I didn't know that becoming a school principal would also be in the plans for me.
I'm grateful for this journey!
Happy Assistant Principals Week to all the incredible APs! You're appreciated for your hard work, kindness, & dedication! Thank you for the gifts you share every day!
Today I'm celebrating Cheryl & Amber, my awesome leadership partners 🩷
@Maespmd
@mdmassp
@NAESP
@NASSP
#APweek
Grateful for the opportunity to provide a closing keynote at the
@ASCD
conference about the significance of joyful moments in our work each day with the students, staff, and families we serve!
Our work is critical to helping ensure a brighter future for each student!
#ASCD24
I was a new principal during the onset of Covid-19. Those early years were so challenging, I nearly left. Since then, I've grown as a leader & have made it my goal to help new & aspiring leaders get the job they want while also building the resilience to stay!
@Maespmd
@mdmassp
The joyful moments sustain us 💚
When educators focus on the simplicity of joyful moments & the good work we do each day, we learn that we can positively impact any person & any situation, regardless of the circumstances around us!
This is how we build resilience
@ASCD
#ascd24
New year, New book! Excited to share that I recently published a children's book & activity booklet called the Principal Pals! It's been my dream to write a book for children that encourages leadership & making a positive difference. I hope you enjoy them!
Are you a teacher or leader transitioning to a new school this year? I am too 🩷
Here are some tips that I've learned so far:
1. Embrace the opportunity
2. Build relationships early
3. Use your strengths to add value
What else would you add to the list? Please comment below
When you've taught and led in a district for nearly 20 years, you may have the good fortune to serve as a school principal to two generations of teachers!
As a 3rd generation educator, it's always a blessing to see the passion for teaching continue across many years!
@HCPSS
It's National Principal's Day and this is my favorite memory from my first year on the job!
When a 3 year old invited me in a wagon for a sensory break, I got inside and enjoyed the ride!
It's a blessing to serve as a school principal 💙💛
#thankaprincipal
@NAESP
@Maespmd
I'm thrilled to be a speaker at the Maryland United Fall Leadership Conference, Nov. 14-16 in Ocean City, MD!
Register by September 1st for early bird rates now:
Come connect & learn with great people! We can't wait to see you soon!
@Maespmd
@mdmassp
We had an awesome Family Fitness night yesterday! It was wonderful to see so many students and families enjoying healthy activities together! Shout out to our staff's wellness committee for organizing this fun event!
@fit_leaders
Our school year is coming to a close tomorrow, and soon, all the hallways will be quiet.
In reflecting on this year, there have been so many moments of joy, but receiving these precious hugs from children definitely surpasses them all! ❤️
@NAESP
We all know how important it is to build positive relationships, especially when leaders transition to new schools❤️
This summer, I'm encouraging families to come visit the office so I can meet as many students as possible before the school year begins! Infinite JOY!️
@ASCD
The Principal's Journey took me on a journey to the United Kingdom! I had an amazing time in the beautiful city of Manchester!
I never could have imagined the connections that writing a book would bring, so if you have an idea to share with the world, I encourage you to write!
What an incredible day of learning and leading at the annual
@ASCD
conference! So many wonderful connections made & excellent opportunities to continue to grow as a leader!
I'm truly grateful for this experience 💜
#ASCD24
One of the many rewards of being an educator are the positive memories we create with kids! These special moments are some of the most important times teachers and leaders will ever spend with the students we serve❤️
Watch my
@ASCD
keynote on YouTube now:
Merry Christmas! I'm grateful for the gift of leadership and the opportunity to serve students, staff, and families in our amazing learning community!
To be a school principal & help create positive moments for children is truly a blessing!
#Christmas2023
This past year, I participated in our district's Superintendent's Leadership Academy! It was wonderful to learn more about the role of a Superintendent!
Thank you Superintendent Barnes & Dr. Turner-Little for facilitating this dynamic professional learning opportunity!
@HCPSS
Congratulations to Jana Clark, the 2024 TX Assistant Principal of the Year! We met last year on a virtual panel, became fast friends & stayed connected ever since!
On Friday, we met and attended the national awards ceremony together! Congrats to all the honorees!
@NASSP
@TASSP1
It's hiring season! Let's go!
Although districts are managing teacher shortages, here are 3 tips for hiring great candidates who will help enhance your school community 💙
#school
#teacher
#hiring
Are you a leader looking for easy ways to increase your visibility?
✨️ Block off time on your calendar daily to visit specific areas
✨️Go to the cafeteria during transitions to see many groups of students
See the full
@PrincipalKafele
video here:
Happy 1st Bookaversary to The Principal's Journey: Navigating the Path to School Leadership! To all who read my book, reviewed it, or shared it widely, thank you so much! I'm humbled and grateful for you! Excited to continue this journey with you!
Link:
Our district had a wonderful professional learning session this morning with the one and only, Principal Kafele! He shared so many great leadership points but my favorite was "See students not just for who they are now, but who they can become." ❤️
Thank you
@PrincipalKafele
!
Grateful for every kind word of support, every new connection made, and the ability to continue to learn and improve each day.
Wishing you, your family, & friends a restful and enjoyable Thanksgiving!
#Thanksgiving2023
These are some of my favorite smiles! I was a first year principal with this group when they were kindergarteners 💛💙
I love seeing students growing up!
@mdmassp
@Maespmd
Please join us live on Saturday at 10:55am EST! We'll be discussing the topic "Do you Really Understand School Leadership?"
Youtube:
@APandNewPrincipalsAcademy
Facebook:
@Principal
Kafele
X:
@principalkafele
If you miss the live broadcast, please watch later! See you soon!
Happy Teacher Appreciation Week to all the amazing educators! Thank you for being a guiding light!
Your dedication, kindness, and passion makes a positive difference in a child's life 💕
#thankateacher
#TeacherAppreciationWeek
@NEAToday
At our school, we use a variety of incentives to help support a positive learning environment. Lunch bunch with the Principal is one of the most popular rewards!
It's a great way to proactively build relationships with students & is always my preferred way to spend lunchtime!
I'm thrilled to present about strategies for the successful transition to the Principalship today at the annual Maryland statewide Assistant Principal Conference!
It's been awesome to connect with so many talented future principals!
@Maespmd
@mdmassp
Greeting students in the morning car loop & sharing hugs before they enter the building is one of my favorite ways to start each day!
Seeing their sweet smiles & excitement for the new day gives me so much joy as a principal!
@Maespmd
@mdmassp
I've learned many great lessons over the years as a principal, and the most important one to remember is that spending quality time with students will always be the best use of our time 🩵
@Maespmd
@NAESP
Our superintendent is retiring after 19 years of service in MD & WV! He is a vital part of my leadership journey, as he promoted me to serve as principal 5 years ago. Thank you Dr. Martirano! Your legacy is rooted in care, compassion, & love. We wish you the best in retirement!
Happy New Year! The start of the new year is a wonderful time to make a commitment towards our self-improvement!
In 2024, I'm committed to taking every opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with other educators!
#HappyNewYear2024
What an honor it was to host MD State Superintendent Dr. Carey Wright! She served as principal of our school from '92-'98 and
her legacy is still present in our building today!
Thank you Superintendent Wright for your outstanding leadership!
@MdPublicSchools
@Maespmd
@hcpss
It's vital that aspiring & new leaders are supported! If you want on-demand PD & personalized coaching sessions with me, check out my Elevated Leadership Course today! Let's reach your goals together! Looking forward to connecting soon 💙
Sign up here:
I am grateful to know these incredible leaders, who not only are my principal colleagues, but more importantly, my friends!
As school leaders it can sometimes feel lonely, so staying connected with kind & caring people who understand the complexity of the work is invaluable ❤️
We are most successful when we help others succeed, so what will your leadership legacy be? My
@ASCD
session tomorrow at 12:30pm will focus on ways we can cement our leadership legacies by developing & mentoring future leaders! Excited to see you!
Info:
Sometimes, the most rewarding moments of the principalship occur during one on one, check-in conversations with a child.
These special connections are my favorite part of being a principal ❤️
@NAESP
@NASSP
Two words: FIELD DAY!
This year's principal vs. students 50-yard dash did not disappoint! Shout out to our 5th grade team for joining in on the fun!
Being a school principal is my dream job💙💛
@NAESP
@Maespmd
@mdmassp
@fit_leaders
@hcpss_waves
I am very excited to connect with so many incredible teachers & leaders at the annual
@ASCD
conference in DC!
My keynote will focus on ways we can accentuate joyful moments while remaining resilient in our roles! I can't wait to see you soon!
Register:
Being a school leader is hard work, so it's important to create joyful moments with students whenever we can!
The next time you need to recharge, go visit students in their classrooms, in the cafeteria, or during recess. I know you'll walk away with a smile on your face! 😊
MAESP had the pleasure of hosting
@NAESP
President Dr. Liza Caraballo-Suarez yesterday!
She is a passionate & dedicated leader with a heart for her community & everyone she serves!
We appreciated hearing her words of wisdom & encouragement for school leaders!
@Maespmd
@mdmassp
Increasing family engagement starts with the belief that every parent has something valuable to contribute to our schools!
✨️ Encourage families to attend events
✨️ Seek parent input through focus groups/surveys
✨️ Share positive school news in your weekly newsletter
So blessed to celebrate the retirement of my mentor and friend Heidi Balter! She served
@HCPSS
for 35 years! Heidi saw something in me I didn't yet see in myself when she gave me my first leadership opportunity at
@hcpss_dles
! I am forever thankful for her influence on my life💙
One of the hardest truths I've come to learn is that while emails and work will always be present, those we hold dearest to us do not get the same guarantee.
This year, let's remember to honor our time with the people we love the most. Prioritize people ❤️
I saw a family outside taking pictures and decided to introduce myself...I was greeted by the biggest cheek to cheek hug I've had in a very long time😊This future Wildcat captured my heart with her joy & excitement to start school this Fall!
@coachsfrederick
@hcpss_waves
@HCPSS
Loved going back to my old high school to film a small part of a 50th anniversary documentary! It was awesome to reflect on the incredible teachers & coaches who helped me to develop!
20+ years ago I joined the Future Teachers of America club & the rest is history!
@hcpss_omhs
L-E-T'-S G-O! Educators unite!
Please tune in on
@CBS
and play along with my partner Julia and I tonight on LINGO at 8pm EST! We're ready!
Enjoy this preview clip from tonight's episode:
'There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.” – Gandhi
Had an awesome time last night seeing some of my favorite smiles! As leaders, the positive relationships we cultivate endure forever.
Lead with love 🩷
@NAESP
@NAESP_Zone_3
One of the many highlights from the
@NAESP
Principal's conference was connecting with
@PrincipalKafele
! He always shares his wisdom authentically & encourages school leaders to lead from their hearts to reach students. Thank you Principal Kafele for being a leader among leaders!
Happy first day of school! It's my 18th year with
@HCPSS
& my 5th year as principal! Looking forward to another wonderful year supporting students, staff, and families! Wishing you and your family a positive school year filled with lots of learning, smiles, and growth!