Brenna Woods | How to Lead Without a Title in Today’s Schools

Brenna Woods

You don’t need a leadership title to make a difference. That’s a belief Brenna Woods, an experienced assistant principal, brings to their work with new educators and aspiring leaders. Influence in schools is more often about how you show up than what your badge says.

Emerging leaders succeed when they bring clarity, collaboration, and curiosity to their teams. Taking initiative on small projects, offering to help colleagues, or even asking the right questions during staff meetings can build your credibility. These small moves demonstrate vision and commitment without stepping on authority.

Communication is essential. Brenna Woods emphasizes that effective informal leaders listen before they lead. They make space for dialogue and align their contributions with broader school priorities, making them trusted collaborators rather than competitors.

Of course, navigating leadership without authority can be challenging. That’s why mentorship, reflection, and strategic alignment are key. When emerging leaders connect their efforts to shared school values, they earn the trust needed to create lasting change.

According to Brenna Woods, leadership is a practice—not a position. By showing initiative, respecting dynamics, and investing in community, emerging educators can lead right where they are.