Event Description
At the heart of every great school is a powerful partnership between the principal and the administrative assistant. When this team is aligned, the entire school feels the impact. This virtual event, led by nationally recognized educator and author Jessica Cabeen, is designed to help school leaders and administrative assistants recalibrate their work, strengthen their collaboration, and lead a culture of excellence—starting in the front office.
Grounded in the transformational Culturize framework by Jimmy Casas, this session will guide participants through real-world strategies aligned to the 4 Core Values:
Champion for Students – Create systems and interactions that put student success at the center.
Expect Excellence – Set a high bar for professionalism, communication, and consistency.
Carry the Banner – Represent your school with pride and positivity, inside and out.
Merchant of Hope – Be a steady, encouraging presence for students, staff, and families.
This interactive session will combine reflection, discussion, and practical application as principals and administrative assistants explore how to apply the Culturize values in their day-to-day work. Together, you’ll identify ways to increase impact, elevate the culture of your front office, and walk away with actionable plans to support the 2025–26 school year with clarity and purpose.
Why Attend?
Strengthen Your Partnership – Learn how to build trust, align your work, and lead with unity.
Champion Student and Staff Success – See how your joint efforts influence school culture at every level.
Transform Your Front Office – Make the first impression a lasting one for students, families, and staff.
Lead with Heart and Clarity – Leave with tools, confidence, and inspiration to elevate your everyday impact.
Your Presenter(s)
Jessica Cabeen
Jessica Cabeen is the Principal of Alternative Education Programs in Austin, Minnesota. Previously, she was the principal of Ellis Middle School in Austin, Minnesota, and the principal of the “Happiest Place in Southeastern Minnesota,” the Woodson Kindergarten Center. She has been an assistant middle school principal, a special education assistant director, and special education teacher. Jessica was named the 2021 ED Dive National Principal of the year, 2017 Minnesota National Distinguished Principal of the Year, and was awarded the NAESP/VINCI Digital Leader of Early Learning Award in 2016. She is a NAESP Middle Level Fellow and a Future Ready Principal. Jessica is the author of Hacking Early Learning and co-author of Balance Like a Pirate, Unconventional Leadership, and Lead with Grace: Leaning into the Soft Skills of Leadership. She is a sought-after speaker and trainer and enjoys getting to learn and lead with other educators across the nation. Jessica enjoys connecting and growing her Professional Learning Network (PLN) on social media. She can be found on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @JessicaCabeen.