The Coach’s Playbook for Leading Educators: Insights from Jimmy Messer

In this episode of Nuts and Bolts of Leadership, host Billy Duren sits down with Jimmy Messer, Head of School at Presbyterian Christian School in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Jimmy shares how his background in basketball coaching shaped his approach to leading teams of educators, emphasizing the importance of putting the right people in the right roles and building a team culture focused on shared goals.

Jimmy explains that a coachable attitude, being open to feedback and putting the team first, is key to successful leadership in any setting. He also highlights the value of modeling positive behaviors, consistent communication, and creating an environment where staff and students can thrive. Jimmy discusses the importance of celebrating wins, both big and small, and staying true to your own leadership style while learning from others.

From building strong parent partnerships to navigating challenges like the rise of AI in education, Jimmy offers practical insights and real-world stories for anyone interested in leadership or education. His advice? Be genuine, listen and learn, surround yourself with good people, and don’t forget to celebrate the journey.

3 Key Listener Takeaways

1. The Importance of Team Alignment and Coachability

Jimmy Messer draws strong parallels between coaching sports teams and leading staff in education. He highlights how vital it is to not only have the right people on your team but to ensure they’re in roles that fit their strengths. A coachable individual, he says, is someone who puts team goals before personal ambitions, making them invaluable to building a strong, high-performing culture.

2. Modeling Culture Over Merely Talking About It

Messer emphasizes that culture is built by example, not just by words or stated values. Leaders and teachers must model the behaviors and standards they expect from others—whether that’s picking up trash on campus or going above and beyond in their roles. Consistent actions, not just slogans, are what truly shape and reinforce a school’s culture.

3. Adapting and Growing with Feedback

Both internal (staff/teachers) and external (students/parents) feedback are pivotal to Messer’s approach. He shares how he actively seeks candid input and uses it as a guide for continuous improvement. Whether through teacher surveys, parent meetings, or student exit interviews, Messer keeps clear communication channels open so the school can evolve to meet current needs and build trust throughout the community.

Show Overview

00:00 Coaching's Impact on Leadership

05:58 Differing Approaches: Athletes vs. Staff

08:26 Modeling Leadership Through Actions

12:39 Performance Metrics and Accountability

13:25 Importance of Classroom Effectiveness

17:35 Coaching Adults vs. Students

22:09 Consistency and Culture in Coaching

24:34 Parental Feedback in Capital Campaign

28:44 Tribal Leadership Through Community Service

30:56 Unplanned Talent Show Impact

35:48 AI's Power and Limitations

37:53 Coach Green's Humble Leadership