Coffee with the Custodian A New Principal, an Unexpected Teacher, and Lessons in Leadership (Leadership Lessons Through the Power of a Story)
Embrace a transformational approach to educational leadership. In this powerful EduFable(tm), Brad Johnson shares the story of a principal and custodian who discover that true leadership is built on connection. This story-centered guide reveals 10 transformational principles rooted in presence, trust, and relational intelligence. Use the included study guide to build lasting leadership and leave your entire school community better than you found it.
Current and aspiring K-12 leaders using this book can:
- Reevaluate their leadership expectations with a stronger focus on service and team building
- Consider how engaged presence builds trust and fosters connection
- Learn how noticing and acknowledging others' contributions strengthen team rapport
- Understand the balance between leading from the front and allowing others to shine
- Value the leadership capacity of all school employees, including behind-the-scenes staff
Contents:
Prologue
Chapter 1: Just Keeping the Seat Warm
Chapter 2: The First Cup
Chapter 3: The List
Chapter 4: A Paper Jam
Chapter 5: The Thermostat
Chapter 6: No Such Thing as a Team of One
Chapter 7: The Strength in the Room
Chapter 8: A Moment of Change
Chapter 9: Beyond Recognition
Chapter 10: In the Middle of It All
Chapter 11: Leaders Worth Following
Chapter 12: Plans and Schedules
Chapter 13: Stories in Every Corner
Chapter 14: The Quiet Ones
Chapter 15: Adding Value
Chapter 16: Balance and Boundaries
Chapter 17: R.Q. > I.Q.
Chapter 18: Protecting the Culture
Chapter 19: Showing Up With a Broom
Chapter 20: The Day the Rhythm Broke
Chapter 21: When to Speak, When to Sweep
Chapter 22: Not a Placeholder
Chapter 23: The Lead Custodian
Chapter 24: What You Build
Chapter 25: Better Than They Found It
Coffee With the Custodian Leadership Study Guide
Published: Mar 20, 2026
ISBN: 9798893741582
SKU: 9798893741582
Publisher: Solution Tree
Pairs well with
Coffee with the Custodian A New Principal, an Unexpected Teacher, and Lessons in Leadership (Leadership Lessons Through the Power of a Story)
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