“Will Parker’s Principal Matters podcast has become an essential part of my professional growth journey. Each Wednesday, I eagerly anticipate new episodes that consistently speak directly to the challenges and opportunities I’m navigating in real-time.
My relationship with Will extends far deeper than being a podcast listener. For the past four years, I’ve had the privilege of working with him as both a personal coach and mentor. His guidance has proven invaluable in helping me navigate the ever-changing landscape of educational leadership. Will’s impact reaches beyond our one-on-one sessions – he meets monthly with our entire Paly Administration team for Mastermind sessions, which have become the highlight of our month. These collaborative sessions create a unique space for both personal and professional growth, bringing our team together in powerful ways.
What sets Will apart is his gift for storytelling – he draws you into each narrative as if you’re experiencing it alongside him, making complex leadership concepts both accessible and memorable. His stories consistently deliver powerful insights that translate into practical leadership applications. Whether through his podcast, coaching, or professional development sessions, Will provides the rare combination of encouragement, inspiration, and actionable wisdom that every school leader needs.”
Brent Kline
Principal, Palo Alto High School, 2013 Washington State Principal of the Year
“Everything is thoughtful and extremely practical. I never leave thinking ‘That would never work in my school,’ because I can use everything!”
Nick Davies
Assistant Principal, Vancouver Washington, Washington State Assistant Principal of the Year
“Without question, Will Parker delivers powerful and meaningful presentations designed to support campus leaders. Will is a proven education expert, and his leadership experiences help engage audiences with practical and useful applications. He is making a difference for our profession. The Texas Association of Secondary School Principals is honored to have had Will present at the TASSP Summer Workshop in 2024.”
Billy Pringle
Deputy Director, Texas Association of Secondary School Principals, Austin, Texas
“Will Parker was the highlight of our conference. His keynote and breakout sessions provided our group with professional development that could not have been more poignant. He spoke to the teachers about the message of their classroom and how they communicate with their students. He then flipped right around and spoke to a standing room only group of administrators about the hats they have to wear to be a successful leader. I can’t tell you the number of people who approached me to thank me for bringing Will Parker to the conference. If you would like a brilliant, approachable, and engaging speaker for your next PD, there is only one choice…Will Parker.”
Tomas Mascaluso
Principal of North Valleys High School in Reno, Nevada, Past-President, Nevada Association of Career and Technical Education
“Our staff has been inspired by new ideas, provided motivation, and given practices that have grown their capacity better to serve students, teachers, and the community. Without any reservation, I strongly recommend Will Parker and his developed content to support campus and district leaders.”
Brent Jaco
Superintendent, Pecos Barstow Toyah Independent School District, Pecos, Texas
“Will’s ability to understand the needs within the district and strategize about how to fill those needs creating opportunities for growth and sustainability of that growth is embedded in his practice. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Will.”
Dr. Mary Beth Bowling
Superintendent of Schools, Archdiocese of Catholic Schools, Louisville, Kentucky
“Will Parker’s background as an awarding winner practitioner made him an incredible hit with Minnesota principals. Will uses real-world challenges and emerging research to connect with his audience. Will not only was able to establish key learning and growth goals for our members but also cited innovative techniques to help principals grow, learn and lead. Highly recommended and an impactful presentation!“
Dave Adney
Retired Executive Director, Minnesota Association of Secondary School Principals
“Mr. Will Parkers talk on ‘Pause. Breathe. Flourish.’ could not have come at a better time for our staff at Sallisaw Public Schools. As educators, we love our jobs, but we often make sacrifices that we don’t realize. Mr. Parker encourages us to reflect and focus on how we take care of ourselves, so we can be better servants in all aspects of our lives. When he speaks, it is with genuine intent and care for everyone in the room. I encourage you to allow Mr. Parker to engage your staff and share his knowledge and passion with your team.”
Scott Mosby
Director of Curriculum & Technology, Sallisaw Public Schools, Sallisaw, Oklahoma
“Will’s approach engages each leader in the development critical leadership skills. Using guided reflections, book studies, sharing best practices, and the principles contained in his books, his sessions allow leaders to reflect and improve their approach to leadership and engaging staff, students, and the community. Our school leaders look forward to each meeting and have requested that we continue to offer Will’s program.”
Shelia P. Vitale
Esq. Director Office of Ohio School Sponsorship, Columbus, Ohio
“Will’s self-care for educators professional development is engaging and relevant. He encourages educators to focus on their own well-being. Will promotes the idea that educators must care for themselves in order to serve their students and others to their fullest potential. With tips, strategies, and areas of focus, Will leads educators on a path to reach their maximum potential in education as well as all aspects of their lives through serving others.”
Russell Tillery
Principal, Sallisaw High School, Sallisaw, Oklahoma
“I find through your guidance that we are able to flesh out some areas that lend to an introspective look. We rarely take time for ourselves. I value each session and love the feeling as if I am not running a race through it.”
Sherri Pankhurst
Assistant Superintendent, Cleveland Public Schools, Oklahoma
“Thank you so much, Will! You did a great job, and what a fantastic way to kickstart our new school year. We truly appreciate you spending time with our team and starting our day with such a valuable leadership tool. Your time and your accepting, collaborative spirit made a big impact. You’re awesome!”
Dr. Margaret Coates
Superintendent, Owasso Public Schools, Owasso, Oklahoma
“Will Parker is an excellent speaker who brings real world experience to his audience. His leadership and character coupled with his excellent delivery of content make him a hit with administrators at all levels. Having a practitioner of his acumen who engages listeners so well contributes greatly to learning at high levels. Will Parker will not disappoint.”
Vic Wilson
Executive Director, Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools, Montgomery, Alabama
“Thank you for an engaging session! I was so energized for the rest of the day. In reviewing the preliminary comments that are coming in on the feedback survey, I can assure you the principals felt the same!”
Amy Nall
Ed.S. Assistant Superintendent, Archdiocese of Louisville, Kentucky
“William’s words were powerful and his advice of telling your story on social media changed a communities perception of a school which had been impacted by trauma and negativity for many years. The continued impact endures in students, staff, families and community members. As a leader I have never been directly impacted by such transformational change which occurred through stories. William continues to impact Dimmitt Middle School and we are thankful for the stories he shared with all the Renton School District leaders.”
Gioia Pitts
Chief of Secondary Schools, Renton School District, Greater Seattle Area, Washington
“Thank you for coming to Seattle to spend time with our principals! Their feedback about your presentation is overwhelmingly positive. Great job!”
Damien Pattenaude
Superintendent at Renton School District, Greater Seattle Area, Washington
“Will did an amazing job for our Kansas school leaders. He was engaging, funny, and on target with his message. Will is able to convey his message from his own experiences and through the stories he shares. I would highly recommend Will for your next workshop or conference.”
G.A. Buie
Executive Director, United School Administrators of Kansas
“Will’s knowledge of concepts of digital professionalism and its place in contemporary education/workforce is tremendous. His skill in delivering this timely information is superb! He has an art of engaging students, educators, and administrators. Will’s sincerity will endear you to his thoughtful message of improving student success.”
Michelle Metcalf
School Counselor, Tulsa Technology Center, Tulsa, Oklahoma
“Will is the ‘real deal’ in authenticity and character…Will shares from the heart with humility, humor, and enthusiasm. I would strongly encourage any school district to make the investment to utilize Will Parker for professional development.”
Chad Coomer
Glenpool Public Schools, Oklahoma, District Curriculum Director
“Will has a unique ability to speak to every person in the room. Whether you are a teacher, support staff, or an administrator, Will’s message is timely and engaging. Will utilizes his years of experience and vast network of colleagues to deliver relevant information that is both practical and useful.”
Shawn Winton
Assistant Principal, Sallisaw High School, Sallisaw, Oklahoma
“If you want someone who is a practicing school leader to inspire, motivate, and provide resources for the educators in your organization, you will not be disappointed in Will. I have known him for years and watched him develop as an educator, a school leader, and now as a speaker. It is my pleasure to endorse him!”
Dr. Vickie Williams
Retired Executive Director, Oklahoma Association of Secondary School Principals
“Will Parker is a true coach for leaders in the world of education. His infectious energy and captivating presentations have the power to reignite our passion for the important work we do. With his innovative ideas and practical strategies, Will effortlessly helped us refocus on what truly matters and motivated us to strive for excellence. I wholeheartedly endorse Will Parker as an author, speaker, and presenter who will bring a fresh perspective and renewed inspiration to any educational setting. He’s a game-changer you don’t want to miss!“
Don Austin
Superintendent, Palo Alto Unified Schools, Palo Alto, California
“The honest feedback and genuine time that we get to spend together. I appreciate how easy and comfortable I am in sharing concerns and issues with Will. It is a safe space in which I know my learning is going to be challenged. I really appreciate the format in which our coaching sessions are aligned. The feedback and suggestions that I receive are the most valuable pieces in my toolbox.”
John Boyd
Principal, Ste Genevieve High School, Missouri, 2023 Missouri State Secondary Principal of the Year
“I appreciate the opportunity to have conversations with fellow principals on leadership topics. This opportunity to share, vent, and learn increases your understanding of who you are as a leader, and it gives insight of where you can set goals to advance your experiences.”
Mary Rosser
Middle School Principal, A+ Arts Academy, Columbus, Ohio