In this Pearl, Maria shares how leading with empathy can transform both student behavior and relationships within a school community. Reflecting on a challenging experience with a student, she explains how listening, building trust, and seeking the “why” behind behavior shifted her process from correction to understanding, and led to meaningful change. Her story highlights that true leadership is grounded in human connection, reminding us that “success isn't just about the standards and scores. It's about human connection.”
Professional positions cited were the ones held at the time of recording. The positions and schools of those quoted may have since changed.
Maria Camila Ardon is a teacher at the International School of Panama.
