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Episode 216: Culture, Collaboration, and Buffalo Chicken Dip: A Conversation with Tony Cattani (NASSP HS POY Finalist)
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In this inspiring episode of Leaning Into Leadership, we continue our NASSP National Principal of the Year series with Tony Cattani, a finalist for the 2025–2026 National High School Principal of the Year. For 18 years, Tony has led Lenape High School in Medford, NJ, where he's created a thriving school culture grounded in trust, reflection, and instructional growth.
Tony shares how his leadership journey evolved from managing to truly leading, and how a single conference keynote transformed his outlook. We dive into his groundbreaking peer observation model that has generated more than 3,000 teacher visits, fostered collective efficacy, and built a culture where everyone grows together. From collegiality cafes to popcorn lesson invitations, Tony’s story is a masterclass in empowering educators and redefining professional development.
This conversation is packed with actionable leadership insights, a healthy dose of humility, and yes—a metaphor involving Buffalo chicken dip that perfectly sums up what it means to lead with purpose and pride.
Learn more about NASSP's Principal of the Year program at https://www.nassp.org/news/nassp-announces-national-principal-of-the-year-finalists/
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