In this episode of Leaders Coaching Leaders, Principal of the Year honoree Washington Collado shares his personal and professional leadership journey. He underscores the significance of leading with intention and creating a safe environment for open communication among students, staff, and families, discussing how to achieve the respect and trust that are foundational to effective leadership. Reflecting on his upbringing in the Dominican Republic and the loss of his mother at a young age, Collado shares how these experiences shaped his commitment to education and advocacy for underrepresented groups. He highlights the importance of integrating diverse histories into curricula, explaining how this is essential for equity in education. Additionally, he previews his upcoming book, The Four Pillars to Guide Visionary Educators, which focuses on strategies for supporting students in high-poverty schools through collaborative leadership and community engagement. Collado's insights underscore the transformative power of education and the necessity of intentional leadership in fostering inclusive learning environments.