Across the country, leaders are exhausted—juggling burnout, high staff turnover, and declining student engagement. These challenges don’t just affect adults or students in isolation; they impact the entire culture and success of a school.

For 40 years, Learning For Living has walked alongside districts facing these very issues. As the creators of Link Crew, WEB, Breaking Down the Walls, and The School Culture Summit, we’ve seen what works: when adults experience belonging and trust, leaders last longer, staff stay, students engage, and schools thrive.

That’s the foundation of our People First Culture Process—a practical, holistic approach that gives leaders, staff, and students the tools to care for one another every day. When people feel valued and connected, burnout decreases, retention rises, and engagement deepens.

We also knew engagement couldn’t be solved with one big program or initiative. It had to be built through small, sustainable daily rhythms that feel doable for even the busiest teams. That’s why we created the People First Framework—turning everyday moments into opportunities to strengthen trust, build belonging, and spark meaningful engagement.