A few months ago, I got a referral from a neighboring district: a new principal had just stepped into a rural PreK–12 school on the East Coast and was looking for support. It was one of those schools where the hallways hold both kindergartners learning their ABCs and high school seniors trying to map out their futures. They even had a CTE program that partnered with other local districts—a school that truly touched every stage of a student’s educational journey.

From our very first conversation, I knew this wasn’t going to be a typical “can-you-do-a-PD-for-my-staff?” inquiry. We clicked immediately. And then he said something that sealed the deal:

“I want the staff to truly commit to helping each student see they can do so much more than they think they can. I want our students to graduate and feel like they are ready—and excited—to try things out in the world, away from home, confidently.”

That one sentence told me everything. He wasn’t chasing a shiny new strategy. He wasn’t looking to check a PD box. He had a vision rooted in student growth, adult commitment, and long-term impact. And he was ready to roll up his sleeves.

In other words—he was bought in. And that changes everything.

What Leadership Buy-In Actually Looks Like

Buy-in isn’t about signing a contract or showing up to a kickoff call. It’s what happens when a leader sets the tone, lives the values, and gets in the work with their staff. This principal struck that rare and powerful balance of being both respected and personable. The school wasn’t perfect—but the culture was grounded in shared purpose.

There were clear, consistent expectations everyone had agreed to:

• Students first, always.
• Discussion is welcome—but with open minds.
• Change is coming—speed depends on urgency.
• One conversation may not be enough.

When I visited the school, I felt the impact of that leadership in the small things. Staff were on time—every time. Back from lunch, after breaks, at the start of the day. Conversations stayed focused on students. Even when side chats popped up, they found their way back to what mattered. And the questions? They came from everyone—from the third-grade team and the calculus teacher. Everyone was in it together.

Why This Matters

I’ve worked in a lot of schools. I’ve seen what happens when leadership is lukewarm, distracted, or detached. And I’ve seen what happens when leadership is clear, committed, and courageous. This was the latter, and the energy was unmistakable.

That’s why I’m so excited about our ongoing work. This summer, we’re meeting to set the tone for the year ahead. His new hires are diving into foundational training now, before August. And the long-term vision? It’s not just inspiring—it’s possible.

Because when leadership is clear in their communication, grounded in purpose, and relentless about building a better experience for both students and staff, that’s when professional development isn’t just another event. It’s a catalyst.

So, What’s the Secret?

If you’re a school leader wondering what it takes to make PD actually work, start with yourself.

• Do you believe in the purpose of the learning?
• Are you present for the process, not just physically, but mentally?
• Do you ask good questions and model curiosity?
• Are you willing to hear what’s not working—and do something about it?

When you say yes to those things, your staff follows suit. Your school culture shifts. And PD becomes something that actually sticks.

This principal gets it. His staff feels it. And soon, his students will benefit from it even more.

That’s why leadership buy-in isn’t a bonus. It’s the foundation. And I’ll be cheering from the sidelines—and in the classroom—for what’s ahead.

Wondering how to build this kind of leadership buy-in in your own school or district? That’s exactly where Holistic PD steps in. We help you shape culture, prioritize staff well-being, and grow skill sets across your entire team.

Curious to learn more? Let’s talk. We’re just as committed to finding the right fit as you are—and whether we partner or not, you’ll leave with tools you can use right away.

Written by Sarah Fillion 2025