Host Jessica Chapman of the Florida Charter Institute welcomes Lacy Roberts and Derek Danne of Newberry Community School to Great Leaders = Great Schools for a conversation about their journey through the charter conversion process. A charter school conversion happens when an existing public school transitions into a charter school, gaining more flexibility in how it operates while still remaining a public school serving local students. In this episode, Lacy and Derek share what it’s like to be right in the middle of that process—guiding their school community through an important shift while staying grounded in local leadership, vision, and student needs. Opening in August 2026 in Newberry, Florida, Newberry Community School is an exciting example of how charter schools across the state are growing through innovation, collaboration, and a deep commitment to student success.

New host Jessica Chapman sits down with Joseph Gatti and Nevin Seifert of Gulf Coast Academy of Science and Technology, an “A”-rated Florida charter school known for its hands-on, field-based learning. They share how staying true to their mission and leading with purpose has fueled lasting impact — proof that transformational leadership often happens close to home, on just one tank of gas.

Dr. Miller is a nationally recognized expert in charter school leadership, governance, and strategic planning, whose career epitomizes the relentless pursuit of excellence and impact. As the author of The Ten Indicators of High-Performing Charter Schools and a Global Gurus Top 30 Education Leader, Dr. Miller has spent over two decades helping schools build the governance and leadership capacity needed to thrive.

nationwide.

Currently, Tom serves as the Executive Director of The Seaside School, one of Florida’s first and most successful charter schools. In his role, Tom is leading a visionary $40 million campus expansion designed to deepen Seaside’s STEM programming, experiential learning, and dual enrollment partnerships.

Tune in to hear how this Level 5 leader levels up!

Learn more about The Seaside School (https://www.seasideschools.net/) or Leaders Building Leaders (https://www.leaders-building-leaders.com/).