Aspire to Inspire!
About
Welcome to Academic Allies—a mission-driven platform led by Duke and Jen Marshall, veteran educators with over 70 years of combined experience.
This site is built for educators who aspire to inspire—whether you’re a brand-new teacher, a seasoned administrator, or somewhere in between. Here, you'll find the tools,
encouragement, and professional development to reignite your passion and make a lasting impact.
Through our books, keynote speaking, educator blog, and YouTube-hosted podcast, we help you reconnect with your “why,” lead with purpose, and build school cultures where both staff and students thrive.
Empowering Educators. Supporting School Leaders. Inspiring Change.
Academic Allies is a platform created by veteran educators Duke and Jen Marshall to help you thrive in your role—whether you’re in the classroom or leading a campus.
Here, you'll find
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real-talk strategies,
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heartfelt encouragement, and
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leadership insights that help you make a lasting impact on your students, your staff, and your school community.
From practical teaching tools to soul-stirring leadership guidance, our mission is simple: to help you reconnect with your purpose and change education for good.
Projects

Using Literature to Teach Leadership Skills
Explore our latest blog posts that delve into effective teaching methods, inspiring stories from educators, and thought-provoking discussions on the future of education. Join us in the conversation and discover valuable insights to enhance your teaching practice and leadership skills.

How to Build a Growth-Minded Staff Culture
Discover our collection of blog posts focused on creating a supportive and growth-oriented school culture. Gain practical tips, real-life examples, and expert advice on fostering an environment where both educators and students can thrive and excel.