I grew up and continue to live in Maine—the ultimate grit and polish state. We brave the hunker-down winters to enjoy the glory of a sand-between-your-toes lobster roll summer, followed by a fireworks display of foliage in the fall. It’s spectacular, but it’s earned. I was raised on the work ethic of my family: tradesmen, homemakers, self-made men, teachers, factory workers, and railroaders. I started at 14 at a local farm stand—selling vegetables, stocking shelves, and hauling bushels of corn in the peak of summer. Since then, I’ve been a babysitter, a hostess, a server, an in-home support worker, an educational technician, a teacher, and a principal.

25 Years in the Engine Room

I bring 25 years of grit to this table. I have sat in the meetings, untangled the "impossible" situations, and labored over master schedules until the numbers blurred. I understand the gap between the tools you are handed and the tools you actually need to lead effectively. While we all agree the system needs to change, my question is: In the meantime, how do we fill that gap?

Building the Tools I Wished I Had

When I sat in the leadership seat, it was often isolating and lonely. You are where the buck stops. While I was comfortable with that responsibility, it didn’t make the end of the day any less quiet. I founded Salt & Script Solutions to design the tools and supports I wish I’d had access to. We provide the internal operational plumbing—the "grit" behind the scenes—so you can show up polished, prepared, and ready to lead.

I’m glad you’re here. Let’s get to work.

Kelly Mullen-Martin, Ed.D, Founder & Organizational Architect