The new documentary The Principal Story explores a year in the life of two schools in impoverished communities. It does so through the eyes of the schools’ principals, both considered exceptional leaders. Kerry Purcell is the former principal of Harvard Park Elementary, a school with mixed racial demographics in Springfield, Illinois. Tresa D. Dunbar is principal at Henry H. Nash Elementary, a predominantly black school in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood. Richard Steele recently spoke with Dunbar, and one of the folks behind this documentary, award-winning filmmaker Tod Lending.

The Principal Story airs 9 p.m., Sept. 15 on WTTW, Channel 11.

Music Button: a/rhythmia, “Study No. 6 for Player Piano”, from the CD Alarm Will Sound, (Nonesuch records)