Featured Guest: Dr. William Hayes, CEO of Boys' Latin of Philadelphia Charter School

Season 1 Finale

Leadership is more than managing a school—it is about creating a culture where every student, educator, and family feels valued, empowered, and connected to a shared purpose.

In the Season 1 finale of Project: School Dad Podcast, host Eric Gardner sits down with Dr. William Hayes, CEO of Boys' Latin of Philadelphia Charter School, for an inspiring conversation on Leadership & Community. Together, they explore how transformational leadership extends beyond policies and programs to shape school culture, strengthen relationships, and create environments where Black and brown boys can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Drawing from his experiences as an educator and school leader, Dr. Hayes shares the leadership principles that have guided Boys' Latin's growth and discusses the non-negotiables of building a community rooted in trust, accountability, excellence, and belonging. The conversation examines how leaders cultivate systems that support culturally responsive teaching, empower educators, and ensure students see themselves reflected in those who teach, mentor, and advocate for them.

Eric and Dr. Hayes also unpack the critical role of representation in education, exploring why recruiting, developing, and retaining Black male educators is essential—not just for diversity, but also as a strategy to improve student outcomes, strengthen school culture, and expand opportunities for young people. Backed by research and personal experience, they discuss how mentorship and culturally grounded leadership influence students long after they leave the classroom.

The episode concludes by turning attention to families and community partnerships. Dr. Hayes reflects on what authentic collaboration with parents looks like, how schools can move beyond traditional engagement, and why shared ownership between educators, families, and communities is essential for lasting student success. As with every episode of Project: School Dad, the conversation ends with a heartfelt Student Letters segment—a reminder that the relationships educators build often become their greatest legacy.

This Season 1 finale is a celebration of visionary leadership, community partnership, and the collective responsibility to build schools where every child is seen, challenged, affirmed, and prepared to lead.

Topics include:

• Leadership that builds community and belonging
• Creating a positive school culture through trust and accountability
• Culturally responsive leadership and instructional systems
• The importance of Black educators and mentorship
• Parent partnerships and shared ownership in education
• Building schools that prepare students for lifelong success
• Student letters and the lasting impact of educators

If you've followed Project: School Dad throughout Season 1—or you're discovering it for the first time—this finale captures the heart of the podcast's mission: building stronger schools through authentic relationships, courageous leadership, and meaningful community partnerships.

Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with an educator, school leader, parent, or community advocate who believes every child deserves to be seen, supported, and inspired.