Tag Archives: Denise Ball

December 11, 2025 · 5:24 AM

A Reflection for Leaders this Season…the Gift of Being Present!

Denise Ball, Ed.D.

This time of year brings both joy and complexity for teams across all industries. Research consistently shows that workplace stress, emotional fatigue, and decreased attentional capacity tend to rise during the winter months, particularly during the holiday season when competing demands intensify for employees at all levels (American Psychological Association, 2024).

Given this, leaders play a uniquely important role in setting the emotional temperature of their organizations. When leaders intentionally “tune in” …listening deeply, being present in conversations, and noticing subtle shifts in team dynamics, they build trust and psychological safety. These conditions not only support employee well-being but also increase engagement and organizational resilience.

Presence Sets the Tone for Culture

Our words and actions create a cultural ripple effect. Decades of organizational research confirm that when leaders model behaviors such as pausing, unplugging, and expressing gratitude, teams experience boosts in creativity, problem-solving, and productivity (Fritz et al., 2011). A leader’s ability to slow down, notice the good, and encourage moments of reflection signals to employees that rest is not a reward…it is a strategic imperative for sustained excellence.

Encouraging teams to pause, breathe, and “see” the good around them begins at the top.

When leaders embrace presence, the positive emotional contagion can be transformational. It builds cultures where affirmation outpaces anxiety, where collaboration thrives, and where people feel supported, valued, and energized to contribute their best.

Training Our Eyes to See the Good

There is so much good in this world. When we train our eyes to see the good, amazing things happen (Ball, 2025). This simple but profound shift in perspective changes how we lead, how we treat others, and how we interpret the moments unfolding around us.

In seasons where work accelerates and expectations multiply, choosing to notice goodness requires intention. If leaders can tune in and be present, it pays dividends in hope, clarity, and renewed purpose for those they lead.

The Gift and Responsibility of Leadership

It is a gift to lead. It is essential to remember the profound impact we have on those we choose to serve. Leadership is not merely a set of tasks or strategies; it is embodied influence.

People feel our presence before they hear our message.

They notice our pace before they follow our direction.

As we enter this season, may we be reminded that our teams do not need perfection from us, they need presence. They need leaders who model steadiness, gratitude, and attention to what matters.

They need leaders who see the good and call it forth in others.

When leaders are present, cultures strengthen. When leaders slow down, teams rise…and when leaders choose to see the good, amazing things truly happen.

References

American Psychological Association. (2024). Psychological safety in the changing workplace: Work in America 2024 report. https://www.apa.org

Ball, D. (2025). Strengthening schools from within: The impact of leadership and culture on teacher retention [Conference presentation]. Oxford University Educational Research Symposium, Oxford, United Kingdom.

Fritz, C., Lam, C. F., & Spreitzer, G. M. (2011). It’s the little things that matter: An examination of knowledge workers’ recovery experiences. Academy of Management Journal, 54(4), 835–855. https://doi.org/10.5465/amj.2011.0486

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March 20, 2025 · 9:47 AM

Be a Distributor of Joy and Change the Teacher Attrition Rate

Blackaby (2015) reminds us that a positive school culture begins with a service-oriented mindset. Leaders must build a clear vision of the kind of school environment they want to cultivate for teachers, students, and families. Building a strong team and a positive school culture requires shared leadership, collaboration, and a focus on teacher well-being.

School leaders must be present and care enough to listen and enter the difficult conversation(s). Joy must be modeled by the school leader in both word and action…it is synergistic and transformative for a school team and a school campus/community. At the heart of teacher retention lies a simple but profound truth—joy!

As educational leaders, we must be builders and distributors of joy, creating school cultures where educators are not just sustained but inspired. Joy is not just an outcome of a thriving school environment, it is the very foundation upon which leadership, professional learning, culture, and a positive school team interconnect and strengthen one another.

When leaders cultivate environments where teachers feel valued, when professional learning is meaningful and collaborative, when school culture is intentionally shaped with positivity and respect, and when teams work together with a shared purpose, joy emerges.

The discussion on teacher retention was important pre-COVID and is essential post the pandemic when many teachers are still struggling. Teachers need to pause and take the time to reflect and acknowledge the work it took to walk through that period, celebrate the amazing things that occurred due to their hard work and service to others, so they can close the chapter and get back to the joy of education that attracted them to the profession in the first place.

The conversation on teacher retention and the importance of school leadership and a positive school culture continues…

May we continue to seek knowledge in all things,

Denise

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February 6, 2025 · 11:20 PM

Listening, Learning, and Leading: A Conversation on Teacher Retention

 

Teacher retention is not just a policy issue, it is  a deeply personal one. Behind every statistic is a teacher who has dedicated their time, energy, and heart to shaping the next generation. The reasons educators stay or leave are complex, intertwined with school culture, leadership, and professional fulfillment. The most effective way to address teacher retention is simple yet profound: we must listen.

 

As school leaders, we have an obligation to understand the realities our teachers face, to hear their challenges, and to amplify their successes. Listening is not just a courtesy, it is  a leadership strategy. When teachers feel valued, heard, and supported, they are more likely to stay and thrive.

 

It was an incredible honor to be invited to lead a discussion on teacher retention as part of the ADAC Answers series. With over 240 school leaders from 40 states and the District of Columbia, registered and representing public, private, faith-based, and international schools. These leaders represented approximately 34,000 teachers and 370,000 students. This conversation reflects a national and global commitment to addressing one of the most pressing challenges in education today.

 

Bringing together diverse voices across governance models allows us to see the common threads in teacher retention and explore meaningful, research-based solutions. Whether it is mentorship programs, school climate initiatives, or leadership development, the strategies we discussed are not just theories, they are actionable pathways to strengthening our schools from within.

 

I am grateful for the opportunity to engage in this dialogue and to learn from the experiences of so many dedicated leaders. The work of teacher retention is ongoing, but together, through thoughtful leadership and a commitment to listening, we can make a lasting impact.

If you were unable to join yesterday, you can watch the full recording on ADAC’s Video Resources page.

 

https://loom.ly/1yvAmBo

May we continue to seek knowledge in all things,

Denise

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September 22, 2024 · 9:11 PM

Engage, Explore, Elect: Non-Partisan Classroom Activities on the Voting Process for K-8

Figure 1: Created by Denise Ball in Collaboration with Dall-E, 2024.

A positive learning environment contributes to improved academic performance, and greater student engagement (Aldridge & McChesney, 2018). It is an essential reminder that as K-12 educators, we are called to develop the minds of students, helping build a framework to embrace critical thinking and learn how to focus inquiry and imagination to solve problems that just one day might help the betterment of mankind. As educators, we develop classrooms to foster creative thought and model in word and action what it looks like to be kind, to show tolerance, compassion, forgiveness, and mercy. What an awesome responsibility we take on when we choose to make a difference in the classroom for the students placed in our care.

In a world that can often promote chaos, our classroom and school environments must be one of safety and peace. Classrooms that prioritize emotional safety and inclusion help students build resilience and improve their academic skills (Ryzin, Roseth, & Biglan, 2020). Classroom environments that are supportive and structured promote not only academic success but also social and emotional development in students Quinn, 2017). As we walk through the presidential voting season, we must remember that parents are the first teachers of their children. The political season can be one of intense emotion. However, as educators, we do not embrace the emotion or give in to the chaos of the world. Instead, we focus on creating and modeling positive learning environments for our students, parents, and co-workers. Teachers who create a positive classroom environment by fostering respect, collaboration, and support tend to see higher levels of student engagement and achievement (Havik & Westergard, 2020).

I have provided below some recommended non-partisan activities for students to help develop and promote critical thinking, and engage in learning about the electoral process while fostering a sense of civic responsibility without the emotional weight of real-world politics.

For all those who have chosen education as a career, thank you. You make a difference!

May we continue to seek knowledge in all things,

Denise

References

Aldridge, J. M., & McChesney, K. (2018). The relationships between school climate and adolescent mental health and wellbeing: A systematic literature review. International Journal of Educational Research, 88, 121-145.

Havik, T., & Westergard, E. (2020). Do teachers matter? students’ perceptions of classroom interactions and student engagement. Scandinavian Journal of Educational Research, 64(4), 488-507.

Quin, D. (2017). Longitudinal and contextual associations between teacher-student relationships and student engagement: A systematic review. Review of Educational Research, 87(2), 345-387.

Van Ryzin, M. J., Roseth, C. J., & Biglan, A. (2020). Mediators of effects of cooperative learning on prosocial behavior in middle school. Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, 66, 101084.

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December 12, 2023 · 5:36 PM

The Journey of Earning my Doctorate Degree in Education

The journey of earning my doctorate degree in education has been nothing short of an awe-inspiring experience. The countless hours of research, the rigorous academic challenges, and the camaraderie with fellow scholars have collectively shaped me into a more knowledgeable and resilient individual. The process of delving deep into the intricacies of educational theory and practice has not only expanded my intellectual horizons but has also instilled in me a profound passion for enhancing the educational landscape. I have served in education for the last 26 years, inspired by many teachers and school leaders. This has been a life-long goal and I am so grateful for all the support and words of encouragement along the way.

As I reflect on this transformative journey, I am filled with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the next phase of my academic endeavor. Armed with a wealth of knowledge and a heightened understanding of educational methodologies, I am excited to transition into the role of a contributor, researcher, and advocate for improved learning experiences. The prospect of engaging in meaningful research and writing to share innovative ways to enhance the educational journey for both students and teachers fuels my enthusiasm. This next phase represents an opportunity to bridge the gap between theory and practice, translating academic insights into actionable strategies that can positively impact classrooms and educational institutions.

My doctoral journey has equipped me not only with a scholarly mindset but also with a deep sense of responsibility to make a meaningful contribution to the field of education. I am eager to continue to collaborate with like-minded individuals, educators, and institutions to implement evidence-based practices that can foster a more enriching and effective learning environment. As I embark on this new chapter, I am motivated by the belief that education is a powerful catalyst for positive change, and I am committed to playing an active role in shaping a future where learning is an inspiring and transformative experience for all involved. If you are in that phase of discernment about whether to work towards earning a doctorate degree in education, be encouraged that you can make a difference and your voice is needed in education.

A special thank you to Liberty University for having a financially supportive program for veterans, allowing me to embark on this very fulfilling journey.

Improving Teacher Retention Within the Archdiocese of Washington Dissertation-https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/5006/

May we all continue to seek knowledge in all things,

Denise

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February 13, 2021 · 5:47 PM

The Importance of Building a Positive School Culture

It is a joy for me to serve in education and I wanted to share some slides from one of my latest professional development sessions. As educational leaders, it is essential that we are reflective in practices and take the time to enter the difficult conversations and modeling this for our school teams. A positive school culture can not only make a difference in building a strong educational team and retaining teachers, but studies show that a positive school culture has a direct effect on student learning. Exemplary leaders understand how to create a climate of collaboration, they must determine what the group needs to do their work and build the team around a common purpose with mutual respect (Kouzes, 2017).

As we walk through this pandemic, take the time to invest into the discussion of developing or strengthening your school cultures…it will make ALL the difference!

May we continue to seek knowledge in all things~

Denise

Reference

Kouzes, J. & Posner, B (2017). The leadership challenge-how to make extraordinary things happen in organizations.

Hoboken, New Jersey: John Wiley and Sons, Inc.

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January 17, 2018 · 10:10 PM

Teachers Sharing the Good with One Another

I am so excited to share that Maria Chubb and Karina Lepkowski mastered educators teaching at Most Holy Trinity within the Archdiocese of Detroit Catholic Schools will be coming to share their best practices they have been sharing at Detroit area EdCamps and Archdiocese of Detroit professional development sessions on March 3rd for our Archdiocese of Baltimore and Loyola University “Harness the Power Within” Professional Development Day!

#SharingTheGood #WeAreAllOneBodyinChrist

May we continue to seek knowledge in all things-

Denise

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November 7, 2016 · 5:43 AM

Technology, Education and Human Resource Recommended Blogs

Last week while sitting in an airport, I grabbed a magazine that featured information on Microsoft’s HoloLens. As an educational leader, I was simply blown away with the future classroom applications that could occur once this product’s engineers have worked out all the kinks and the price driven down to make it an affordable tool to use to enhance learning for learners of all ages, in school and in the workforce.

Below are some good reviews to get one acquainted with the product and provides a glimpse of what it can do and why this product is one to watch for making a change in the way we look at teaching and student learning.

Check out this YouTube Video, that is mind-blowing in educational possibilities for our future with preparing tomorrow’s leaders for any industry. Microsoft HoloLens-Transform your World with Holograms

A Look at Microsoft’s HoloLens by Sean Hollister on CNet.com

Education and Technology…Blogs to Read to Stay Current and use as a Resource

The 2016 Must Read Education and Technology Blogs by Ed TECH Focus on K-12.

The Top 10 EdTech Blogs by http://www.Brainscape.com

Educational Technology and Mobile Learning website is very cool and offers a plethora for resources for educational leaders. The site offers blogs to follow and products to use to enhance any learning environment.

Continual Learning Across the Industries

Since we should always be learning new ways to perfect our craft, regardless of industry, this is a great site for professional development and human resource  leaders as well. Learning needs to be engaging for all learners, regardless of their age or level of education. SnackNation, conducted a survey and came up with some out-of-the-box blogs that share ideas on how to make your employees feel validated and engaged in whatever it is you as a manager, leader or employer have to offer.

In an age where after a 30 second sound bite, we lose interest, gleaning some perspective and new ideas from those with whom we want to engage, so they can lead our industries into tomorrow might not be a bad idea.

Human Resource Blogs

The Top 30 HR Blogs for High Performance HR Professionals by http://www.snacknation.com

Capella University’s 6 Must Read Blogs for HR Professionals

Great Leadership -A blog for a leader/manager at any level. This blog also shared best practices and tools to use with your team. e.g. Individual Performance Plans etc.

Strategic Human Capital Management A useful resource for an HR manager or leader in any industry.

As I transition from my role as a traditional education leader as a school principal into more of an education leader within the world of human resources,  I will share all the good sites and resources I discover. Life after all, is just one large volume of multiple lessons…

May we continue to seek knowledge in all things~

Denise

 

 

 

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November 2, 2016 · 1:58 PM

Being an Agent of Change…Why is it Important

When after working 21 years within the world of education, I pause to reflect and review the amazing opportunities I have had, hopefully making a difference in the lives of students, faculty, staff and school communities I have had the pleasure of developing programs, serving, and training.

I most recently shared with my children (12 & 14) that we will be relocating to the Washington, D.C./Maryland  area. My husband has recently moved to the area with his employer and after twenty-three years of marriage, I know it is important for us to move together as one family unit. To my surprise, both my children without hesitation were excited about the “adventure” and quoted me as often saying, “life is short, let’s embrace a new chapter of life.”

Given the relocation plans, many in my life are surprised by my excitement about the adventure and all the uncertainty that relocating can bring. Many have taken the time to voice their amazement on how well my children are taking to the news and quite honestly surprised by their excitement.

Our family have spent time talking about the responses from family and friends. I have had numerous conversations on the topic of relocating with my educational leadership peers, faculty and staff. Ultimately, I am thrilled to join my husband Michael. I am grateful for the grace of life and having two healthy children.

In education, I have spent years teaching and encouraging students to embrace change as a new concept or topic of learning is being taught. I have spent years developing programs and training and encouraging educational teams to include my own faculty and staff, to change the lens in which they see their classrooms, teams and school environments, and embrace a new idea and or theory all for the betterment of enhancing the learning experience of the students placed in their care. These experiences have all been successful and repeated throughout the world by many.

In education, we are called to be change agents, and yet so often, we have a difficult time stepping out of our silos and changing the lens in which we use to see the world around us. As I embrace this new chapter in my life, I am excited as I  interview within education, various industry leaders and agencies, I am seeing just how small (and global) our world is.  I cannot wait to see which team I will join and grateful for the wonderful years of working within the world of education in Michigan.

I encourage all those who play a role in the life of a child to continue to encourage them to seek out the new, embrace the changes as opportunities and help them see global connections all around them.

I will continue to post blog entries on those topics I find most interesting and educationally worthy. I am grateful for all the feedback and the hundreds of thousands of views this blog has received.

My next blog post will be on Microsoft’s HoloLens. I have recently read a few articles on this product. You can say you read it here first, when I say that this product will change the way in which we teach and learn in the future. As you know, educational changes often move as pond water, and we may not see this product changing education best practices tomorrow or even in the next 5 years but this is an amazing product and it is definitely one to watch when it comes to enhancing education for our leaders of tomorrow.

May we continue to seek knowledge in all things,

 

Denise

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May 24, 2016 · 6:14 PM

We are Called to Inspire our Students even in the Last Few Weeks of School…Remember the “Why” in Choosing to Teach


(Picture posted on Facebook by Teacher2Teacher #T2T)

We have limited days left with our students.

What a blessing it has been to greet them each morning as they enter our building, our classroom. To be able to tell them they can learn the impossible and see that which is not visible. Be a caregiver, boo-boo healer, magician, entertainer, disciplinarian and mentor. To be a dispenser of hope and a well of motivation and inspiration. Provide them examples to model after and to strive to emulate.

What a blessing it has been to be all we are called to be to them this school year.

We as educational support staff, teachers and administrators  have modeled for those placed in our care more than we will ever know.

Hopefully, we have modeled positive conflict resolution, how to demonstrate and hopefully deal with disappointment and frustration, how to be kind in words and actions and how to forgive.

Our students have watched and listened to our words and actions.

As one who who chooses to work within the world of education, teach and inspire our future leaders of tomorrow, this is so very important for us to remember.
Let us have faith that the seeds and examples we have planted and provide will be watered to bear fruit for many years to come.

May the last few weeks of school be all that you hoped this school year would be …on the first day of school!
May we continue to seek knowledge in all things-

Denise

Principal

St. Augustine Catholic School

Twitter:

@dballwriter and @principal567

Sent from Mobile Device

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