One of the most common mistakes schools make is confusing a resource with a curriculum.
A textbook gets adopted. A program is purchased. A shiny new initiative is rolled out.
And suddenly everyone says, “Great… we have a curriculum.”
But that’s not curriculum.
In this episode, Darrin sits down with Emily Makelky from the Curriculum Leadership Institute (CLI) to unpack what curriculum actually means and why empowering teachers to lead curriculum development can transform how schools serve students.
Drawing on years of classroom experience and consulting with districts across the country, Emily shares how leaders can move beyond resource adoption and build sustainable curriculum systems that reflect their community, their teachers, and their students.
The conversation also explores how leadership teams can prioritize curriculum work, avoid overwhelming teachers, and create structures that support long-term improvement.
If you’ve ever wrestled with questions like “What should we really be teaching?” or “How do we align instruction across classrooms?” this episode offers practical insight for school and district leaders.
Just like when she was in the classroom, Emily loves it when the “lightbulb” comes on for teachers.
Combining her teaching experience with a foundation in business management, Emily now works as a consultant with the Curriculum Leadership Institute, helping schools and districts take a systematic approach to curriculum development and alignment.
Emily’s work focuses on helping educators clarify what should be taught, align instruction and assessment, and empower teachers to lead meaningful curriculum work within their schools.
Curriculum Leadership Institute
Free tools and resources (including the Long Range Plan template)
https://www.cliweb.org/toolsandinspiration
Free Long Range Planning Session
https://calendly.com/d/3sk-z55-pg2/develop-your-long-range-plan
If this episode resonated with you and you're looking for support in developing stronger leadership teams, clearer systems, and healthier school cultures, connect with Darrin.
Website: https://darrinpeppard.com/
Thank you to our Amazing Sponsors
This episode is sponored by DigiCoach, helping leaders capture real-time instructional data, provide meaningful feedback, and build clarity through strong systems. Go to digicoach.com and tell them you heard about them here on the Leaning into Leadership podcast for special partner pricing.
This episode is also brought to you by HeyTutor, delivering high-impact, research-based tutoring that supports students while reducing leadership overwhelm. Connect with them at HeyTutor.com