The Joy in the Village: Principal Lauren Hilliard Leads with Togetherness

We conclude National Principals Month with a spotlight on a leader from the nation’s capital.

There are common themes in Lauren Hilliard’s approach to her work as an educator and, now, educational leader: joy, community, and village. 

She became the principal at KIPP DC Lead Academy in June after previously serving as a floating administrator and principal in residence at the school, which teaches first through fourth graders in the nation’s capital. In her new role, she’s tapping into her ability to create nurturing environments.  

“At the heart of it all, my job is to make sure our students feel loved, supported, and pushed to reach their full potential,” Lauren says. “I work alongside our teachers and staff to create a school community where learning is joyful and consistent, and where families feel like true partners.”

Joining Lead Academy in January 2023 brought Lauren home— – not only because the DMV is where she hails from, but also Washington, D.C. is where she started her teaching career in 2011. She went on to serve in principal roles in Antioch, California, becoming principal of an elementary school there for nearly four years. 

“This is my second time serving as principal, and I’ve entered this season with the very tools, perspective, and support I wish I had the first time around.” 

She credits the Black Principals Network as a major conduit to those tools and support, having recently graduated from The Leadership Collaborative 2025 cohort, which brought together 22 Black school leaders from across seven states and D.C.

“It’s given me a space to connect with leaders who truly understand both the joys and the challenges of this work,” she says. “Through the network, I’ve found inspiration, practical strategies, and, most importantly, a community of peers who remind me that I’m not in this work alone.”

Lauren wants her staff and students to always know they are not alone, either, which is why this year’s theme at her school is “It Takes a Village.” 

“I see my role as building a village where everyone – students, staff, and families – can thrive together.”

She keeps that approach top of mind while she navigates leading instructional work and solving the unexpected challenges that come with running a school. It reminds her to pause to make sure they’re taking the time to celebrate student wins, to reflect on what makes their work meaningful, and how she strives to contribute to the greater good. 

“My hope is that by showing up authentically, I not only strengthen my own school community but also add to the collective work of making education more equitable, joyful, and sustainable.”

Ready to join the family? Visit the Black Principals Network Store and use code BPMONTH25 to grab your 25% off exclusive merchandise that lets you represent the movement while supporting programs that uplift Black educators nationwide. Every purchase helps fund professional development, mentorship opportunities, and advocacy efforts that strengthen our schools and communities.

‍Shop now and wear your commitment to educational equity with pride. Because when we celebrate Black and Brown leadership, we celebrate the future of education itself.