Helping Military Children Prepare for the First Day of School

To see Educator Resource Guide

Going back to school can be both exciting and also scary for kids as they acclimate themselves to new classmates, teachers, and routines. However for some of the students that will sitting in our classrooms when school resumes, the "scariness" of back to school is compounded by the fact that least one of their parents is not with them to help deal with the transition. This fall thousands of children from military families will be returning to school wondering when their mom or dad will return.

As an educator, it is important to know how we can help make that transition easier for the children of our military families. The above resource offers information designed to help educators understand military lingo, provides resources for both the teacher as well as books to use to help classmates understand what is happening, and countless activities designed to help our military children adjust to school at a time that is already extremely stressful.

During the various phases of the deployment cycle, students may be experiencing a variety of emotions and behaviors. It is important for educators to create open channels of communication with family members, remembering that ALL members of the family are experiencing challenges during this time of instability. The needs of the family will vary depending on existing support systems, (See guide for suggested resources) however if the teacher and school actively engage military family members, then they can work together to ensure that the children are receiving the support that they need in order to be successful. 

Website to Support Military Children

When a child comes into our classrooms experience hardship or challenges it is up to us to ensure that they receive the support that they need to be successful. When the children are the children of the brave men and woman serving our country in the armed forces, we each have a greater responsibility to take care of these kids... they are, after all, the children of heroes!

This blog is dedicated to the men and woman serving on the USS George H.W. Bush:

 Ship's Official Website

The Leadership Ambition Gap

My passion and the topic of the Ph.D. research is woman in leadership. This topic is close to my heart for many reasons... including the fact that I have two daughters in very male dominated careers (one has a degree in Industrial Engineering, the other has a degree in Criminal Justice). I have seen time and time again the obstacles they continue to face in their careers. Mistakenly, I thought it would be different in education, especially considering more than 80% of the people in education are females. However, if you look at top level leadership positions, the percentage of female leaders is not much higher than in most of other industries.

I could go on and on, however the purpose of this blog is to introduce some of the topics in Sheryl Sandberg's book Lean In.  In her book, Sandberg talks about how she and other women of her generation grew up with the idealistic notion that she had endless opportunites open to her. At no point did she consider that someday she may be expected to have to balance career and family. She explained that "integrating professional and personal aspirations proved far more challenging than we had imagined."

Despite the fact that woman earn 57% of the undergraduate degrees, and 60% of the master's degrees, woman often find that in their attempt to "have it all" something has to give, and often that something is career. This reality has manifested itself in a narrowing pipeline with many qualified females entering the job market but by the time that pipeline is filling leadership positions the pool of woman has been significantly reduced due in part to what Sandberg calls the "Leadership Ambition Gap".
While many woman are as professionally ambitions as men, research shows that fewer woman seek  senior level jobs. Studies also show that woman "are less likely than their male peers to characterize themselves as leaders, visionaries, self-confident, and willing to take risks" (p. 16).  

With more men striving for leadership roles, it is not surprising that they far out number women, especially considering some of the challenges that women must still overcome.  According to Sandberg this pattern starts long before women enter the workforce, in fact researchers argue it starts as early as kindergarten, when girls overwhelming choose being a mommy over being the president. Society often supports this expectation. Professional ambition is expected of men where as it is often seen as optional for women. Moreover, when a women is seen as ambitious, it is often seen in a negative light... "She is very ambitious" is not a compliment in our culture. Professional accomplishments of men are celebrated, whereas, when women experience professional accomplishments, society will question the "cost" of those accomplishments. Society expects women to marry and raise a family and when professional accomplishments interfere with those societal expectations, the "cost" is seen as being too great.

For most men, ambition means that they achieve desired goals in their career. However ambition for women may include climbing the corporate ladder, raising children, seeking personal fulfillment, contributing to society, and improving the lives of others. I do not in any way mean to imply that men do not aspire to these same goals, rather that the cultural messages we send to our children are that society expects this more of women than of men. 

We need to reflect on the cultural messages we are sending to our children. Girls that assert themselves and take charge are often called "bossy," very seldom if ever would a boy be called bossy for assuming a leadership role. Girls are given dolls to practice their role as mothers whereas boys are given tools to practice doing jobs that they may have later in life. Boys are superheroes while girls are princesses. What messages do these gender-biased practices send to our girls?

Closing the Leadership Ambition Gap will not happen based on what women do today, rather to truly change, we need to look at the messages we, as a society, continue to send to our girls. We need to let our girls wear capes, not call them bossy when they are taking the lead, let them know it's OK to be ambitious, and most importantly when they do grow up to assume that leadership role, we need to stop calling them the "Head Bitch in Charge" because this not only hurts our girls, it hurts our society.

The Anticipation is Killing Me!!!

This has become my motto this summer as I patiently wait for what's to come. For the past two years I have undergone rigorous training to become a turn around leader. This training included both classwork and field work in one of our district's neediest schools. While completing the field work, I was able to initiate programs and procedures designed to strategically target the schools needs. I worked with the school's staff and leadership, and designed a plan to ensure that the program continued after my field work was completed. The programs worked... Moving the school up two letter grades on the state evaluation system. So now that I have finished my training, I wait to see where the road will take me, my next steps, believing that when the time is right I will move into a leadership position.  

Unfortunately, patience has never been one of my virtues. I was the kid that used to go searching under beds for holiday gifts, the one that has to show someone their gift as soon as I buy it and the one that believes in the saying "dessert first" after all who wants to wait for dinner when there is chocolate to be had!!!

Although now, with things beyond my control, I need to have faith that when the time is right I will get there. They tell me to breathe, to relax, that they know I am ready and that my time is coming soon. They tell me to have patience. I'm trying! Boy, am I trying but the anticipation is killing me!!

Happy Fathers Day

This weekend was not only the first Father's day since my father passed away, it would have also been his 76 birthday. However, rather than mourning, we decided to spend the weekend doing something my dad would have loved. As a child, we would spend part of every summer at the beach. We would rise with the sun and head to the shore in search of the biggest shells we could find. Those mornings with dad were precious, we would chase crabs back to the sea and splash about in the waves for hours.Those are happy memories... perhaps the reason  that even to this day I find the beach to be my peaceful escape whenever I need a break. I feel blessed to have those happy memories... but I also can't help but wonder how many little girls were missing their daddies this Father's Day. How many of our nation's children were sending skype messages to their dads who are serving in our armed forces over seas? How many of our children are growing up without a "father" role model in their life? I am blessed to have had the opportunity to make memories with my dad and I will continue to hope that all children missing their dads on this fathers day will soon have their dads home with them. May God keep our military out of harms way, so that they can return home to make memories with their children.

Dedicated to our nation's Military Dads... Happy Father's Day.

Life-Changing Experiences Ahead

Well it is official... after two years, I have completed my specialized Turn-Around leadership training. The Principal Rapid Orientation and Preparation in Educational Leadership (PROPEL) program is designed to create leaders with the skills needed to work in my district's neediest schools. Our final course in Critical Urban Education was the end of a rigorous fast-paced program, during which I earned my degree in Educational Leadership along with both my Level 1 & Level 2 (Principal) credentials. So now that I am done....what's next?

Now the process begins....While I have my principal credentials, I will still need Assistant Principal experience before I am ready to take the helm of my own school. So my application for Assistant Principal positions is in the process of being "tweeked". Included is the extensive list of trainings with more than a dozen leadership trainings with the Center for Leadership and Learning, DDI training, SREB training, Marzano's Interrater Reliabilty Training, trainings in Data Teams and " Visible Learning". We studied Strategic Leadership, learned change theory, and all about 90-90-90 Schools. I understand how to build internal and external relationships, cultivate partnerships, and can develop a marketing plan that would rival an ad agency. More importantly, the PROPEL program was designed so that we gained real- world practical experience as learned about and applied the theories being taught in class. If you followed my blog over the past two years, you will see how these experiences have changed my thinking and ignited in me a desire to make a difference for a group of students that needs a leader with all the tools they can possible have!!

So... Its time to take the next step... to venture off in a new direction. This blog will continue to evolve as I transition into an official leadership role, and as I continue to learn and grow as a leader. As a life-long learner I have plans to continue on in school...working on my Ph.D.  All the classes I have taken this past year are part of that program, but I suspect it will take another 4 years to complete my Ph.D, so grad school will be in my future for a while! For now, I will begin applying for positions and hope that I will be placed wherever I can do the most good for children. Changes are in store, and I am looking forward to the ride!!!

Relationships and Leadership

Successful leaders need to be able to cultivate and nurture relationships. While this is true for leaders, it is equally true for us as individuals. On March 31st, the Huffington Post published an article called 8 Signs You're In The Right Relationship. According to the author, the 8 telling signs are designed to provide more concrete proof that you are with that special person. As I read the article, I reflected on a past relationship... Based on the fact that very few, if any, of the "signs" existed, it is no wonder that things worked out the way they did. On the other hand, almost all of the signs do exist in my current relationship, so if I view the information as truthful, I'm hopeful that I got it right this time around!!

Of course, as is often the case, when I reflect on what I have read, I relate it to all aspects of my life. This was no different. So taking a little creative liberty with the content of the article by rephrasing it to address leadership relationships, here are signs that you have a positive relationship with individuals in your work place:

1. You know what your staff needs to feel appreciated, even if those needs are different than yours. (Try reading  "The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace:Empowering Organizations by Encouraging People" by Gary Chapman and Paul White)

2. Conflicts are handled in a respectful and productive manner. Try reading "Working with Difficult People" by Muriel Soloman.

3. The relationship bolsters each person's self-esteem.

4. You are different enough to bring new perspectives, but on the same page where it matters most.

5. You are willing to put "we" before "me." There is a commitment to the greater good.

6. There is a genuine concern and emotional response when the person is not around.

Obviously, some if the signs in the article are NOT appropriate for the workplace, but the desire to put the people and the relationships with the people we work with in the forefront is essential if we hope to develop the relationships that can transform our schools.This focus on the development and well being of others and the desire to serve is consistent  with a model of leadership known as Servant leadership.

 Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership is an organization designed to share information about aspects of Servant Leadership. They offer a multitude of training materials, have a wide selection of books and even host an annual conference. Building effective relationships is crucial for all leaders, but for leaders in "Turn-Around" schools relationships are even more important.

What defines me?

This was the question that inspired another project for my Critical Urban Ed class, which has turned out to be more of an exploration of self-discovery than anything else. I suppose we need to know how to relate and connect with our own culture before we can expect to connect with anothers. Anyway this week we were to create a "Culture Chest." The outside was to reflect how the world perceives us and the inside was to include items that reflected who we really are as a person. Figuring out what to put in my box that would define who I am was challenging except for one thing... My girls. They mean the world to me... One thing that defines me is the fact that I am their mother. Rather than putting a ton of pictures, I created this video... It focuses on their time participating in band activities since I was a band mom, not just for my own kids but also for the hundreds of kids they marched with over the years. We spent more than 10 years being involved in band programs, including the years my girls spent marching with the world class Boston Crusaders Drum & Bugle Corp.

My Culture & My Father are leading me to become a Turn-Around Leader

The broad definition of culture has to do with the beliefs and behaviors of a group based on an individual’s race, religion, or age. My culture is deeply rooted in my religious upbringing and the beliefs that my family engrained in me throughout my entire life. So how is my culture leading me to become a Turn Around Leader? Let me explain...

I am currently taking a course at FAU called Critical Urban Education. An amazing class for anyone working with students in an urban environment. Actually, I think it is a class that every educator should take. The class is forcing us to examine our own culture and beliefs in order to examine how personal bias impacts our professional practice. One of the assignments for the course has us writing an Epistemology which is forcing us to examine who we are and how our experiences impact our thinking and belief systems. It has been an emotionally challenging assignment, as I recall experiences of my youth that I have not considered for years. I was forced to recall experiences with discrimination that my family and I have faced. Events of my past that have shaped me as a person and experiences with my father that I realize now have influenced my desire to become a turn-around leader. These stories have been hard to recall because it makes me realize how much I wish I would have had this realization while my father was still alive. I wish I would have had the opportunity to share this with him before he died. Perhaps in sharing with you, it is my way of putting the words out in the universe in hopes that somehow they will reach him and he will know what a positive influence he has been in my life.

  How my culture and my father are leading me to become a turn-around leader... My story:      

         I grew up in a traditional middle-class neighborhood even though we were the only Jewish family on my block; the neighbors never seemed to treat us any different. They did wonder why we had no Christmas tree or Christmas lights. I remember feeling like there was something wrong with us that we didn’t celebrate Christmas. So my father let us put up stockings on Christmas Eve and told us that “Hanukkah Hank” would visit all the Jewish children to leave us candy and “gelt” in our stockings. I guess this was his way of trying to help us feel like we fit in. He also made sure that everyone joined in for our celebration of Hanukkah. We would host huge Hanukkah parties. There would be 80-90 people in the house, the yard, everywhere. He would buy dreidels and chocolate gelt for everyone, and my mother would peel 50 pounds of potatoes to make latkes. They would have gifts for all the children too. Everyone loved our parties. I remember that all my friends would tell me how they were glad that they had a Jewish friend because they got to celebrate more holidays with us. It was important to my dad that we felt comfortable with our roots, so he welcomed everyone that wanted to be part of our celebrations.
          My earliest memories of my childhood always included large gatherings of family and friends throughout the year. Around our table always sat members of our extended family, neighborhood friends and sometimes people my father welcomed into our home for a family meal. I remember my father telling us that it is a blessing to share what we have with others. He would give the shirt off his back, if there was someone that needed it more than he did. So if he met someone that he believed could use a good meal, he would invite them to our house. We were told to welcome these guests as family, so we did. These strangers were called aunt or uncle and were often very different from any of our real relatives, and yet they joined in our meal and festivities and enjoyed their time at our family dinners. Over the years, our table often included some regular guests, our “uncles” that had joined our family for meals so many times they had truly become part of the family. We were also welcome to bring our friends to join our family meal, so the family dinner table regularly included 10-12 people. Considering there were only five of us, there were a lot of extra mouths my mother was feeding each week. She seemed to enjoy it though.

As a result of my parent’s efforts to share our traditions with our friends and neighbors, I was able to embrace our culture. I am not sure if this was something my parents would have done anyway, or if it was the result of our early encounters with extreme prejudice that made my parents so intent on making sure others understood our traditions. Either way, my parents helped us accept who we are and made sure that we understood that it was ok to embrace our culture. They would remind of us frequently of our heritage and insist we not forget because doing so would mean that others might forget… And according to my parents’ teachings it was our responsibility to ensure that we never let anyone forget the cruelty our ancestors faced in the hands of their oppressors.

When I was a child, my father ran the poverty program for the City of Miami. I am not sure what department he worked with other than to say it was the poverty program. His department was responsible for funding community programs and services. The liaisons in his office worked with various organizations and he often visited these agencies to discuss funding needs. I remember going with my father to the courthouse in down town Miami during the summer when we were off from school. The big city, with all the tall skyscrapers was my first exposure to what I would call an urban environment. My brother and I would fly paper airplanes from the top of courthouse building and go with my father when he visited agencies and projects in the downtown area. I remember thinking how cool it was that artist decorated the buildings (the graffiti art). The people we would meet were always nice to my father, and I often recognized the people my father would invite to our home on Friday nights. I remember the strange looks we would get when we called them “uncle” and gave them hugs.

            My early understanding of the need that existed in these urban areas was one in which I recognized that despite need, there was still a sense of pride and family commitment. My father would tell us that we were lucky that we had enough to share, that not everyone did. He also stressed that if you have enough to share, that it is our moral responsibility to do so. He would tell us how fortunate he felt to have a job that would allow him to help people that needed a little help. He always made sure we understood that everyone we met deserved respect, that just because these people were struggling a little or a lot did not mean that they did not deserve our respect. His favorite speech always started with “there for the grace of god go I” and usually ended with “as long as I have enough to share with those in need I will and I expect you to do the same.” This is so deeply engrained in me that I have always believed that all people, no matter their circumstances deserve to be treated with respect and that those that have been faced with the greatest challenges may need that respect even more than others. My father would remind us that the discrimination some people face today is not unlike the discrimination that my people have faced in the past. He would tell us that if we allow others to believe it OK to discriminate against people based of race, religion, or whatever makes them different, then we are sending the message that this behavior is acceptable and justified. My people, my ancestors, members of my own family were killed in the witness of those that stood by and did nothing. 

             My understanding of the word “urban” and the people that live in urban environments is based on these early experiences with my father. The belief that all individuals, regardless of their circumstances deserve our respect and help if we are in a position to offer it also comes from my early experiences with my father. While, I have always felt a passion to work with those that need my help the most, it is only now, after doing the personal reflection required for this assignment that I truly understand my deep inner motivation to become a turn-around leader. You could say, I was bred to be a turn-around leader. That it is who I was brought up to be, and it is what my father would expect of me. I only wish I had this realization before my father passed away this past October, I think it would have made him very proud to know that my desire to be a turn-around leader is based on what I learned from him.

 


                              In loving memory of my father Paul Kussner

Broward County Teacher Conference

I am very honored to have been selected to present at the 3rd Annual Broward County Public School's Strive for Excellence Teacher Conference taking place at Dillard High School on May 3, 2014. I will be presenting a session along with two of my PROPEL Cohort 2 Colleagues.

Description of our Session:
Using the Common Core Standards, we will show teachers how to use student data and feedback to drive rich, relevant instruction for all learners so that they remain engaged in the curriculum. By utilizing student data, interests and brain based activities, teachers will be able to present purposeful, meaningful and memorable lessons that will positively impact student learning.

For more information or to register for the conference, visit the following site:
Office of Talent & Development Strive for Excellence Teacher Conference

Next Steps...

 

I have a little over a month and a half before I complete Phase 2 of the Principal Rapid Orientation and Preparation in Educational Leadership (PROPEL) Program. By May 1st, I will have completed the two-year program and will have earned my Level 2 Principal Credentials.  The program has been intense, demanding, and perhaps the most valuable experience of my life. The intensive "Turn-Around Leadership"training funded by a Race to the Top Grant was designed to prepare my Cohort to work in the most needy schools in our district. I am anxious to put this training to use, having had an opportunity to do a 25 day apprenticeship in a "turn-around" school during this second phase of the program. However, despite the new challenges I will face as I move into the next leadership position, I can't help but reflect on how much I have enjoyed being fully immersed in academic pursuits. Don't get me wrong, working full time and grad school full time has not been easy, but I have loved every minute of it and I am sure I will miss that aspect of the program. 

So... I have decided to take the next step. I am enrolling in a Ph. D Educational Leadership Program. That means 3-5 more years of classes every Saturday. Many have asked me, "Aren't you tired? Don't you want a break?" Others have asked about the personal sacrifices to my family and friends. While I am tired, I still love it. As for the sacrifices, I fortunate that my family is encouraging me to continue my schooling. As for the love of my life, well he thinks I am crazy, but he is proud of me and supportive. I couldn't ask for any more! 

So the journey continues.

Life is a Roller Coaster

Roller Coasters... they are unpredictable... they have ups and downs, loops and twists and lots of wild turns. They start out slow and just when you think you have everything under control the bottom falls away and off you go again. Some people love roller coasters... they make their heart beat fast, get their adrenaline flowing, it's full of excitement. Others feel sick, their heads spin, their stomach is in their throat, and they can't wait for the ride to be over. When I was young, I used to love roller coasters especially the kind you ride in the dark. They were both terrifying and exciting all at the same time.

So why the talk about roller coasters?? Well perhaps it's because I have come to realize that Life is a lot like roller coasters... it's unpredictable, can be full of excitement, it can make your head spin... and sometimes it can make you sick to your stomach. Life, like a roller coaster... once the ride has begun there is not much you can do but enjoy it or scream until its over.

Riding the coaster...There are days when I feel totally ready for the twists and turns coming my way... and then there are days when they catch me by surprise. There are days when I embrace the ride with a full grin, and times when I want to cry out loud. It's both terrifying and exciting. Life is like a roller coaster ride... with all the ups and downs, twists and turns, it best when it's shared with a friend.

I hope that on my Roller Coaster of Life, my riding partner and I can be together through all the ups and downs and at the end of the ride, we will look back and say...
"Now THAT was a GREAT ride!"

A Friendship Blessing

There is a Celtic tradition that says if you share goodness and happiness with others, it will be returned back to you multiplied 10,000 times. The notion of Karma highlights how one's actions will influence their future. The Law of attraction is the name given to the belief that "like attracts like" and that by focusing on positive or negative thoughts, one can bring about positive or negative results.

One needn't look far to see how popular this topic is, in fact there are dozens of books focusing on providing readers with tips, strategies, or explanations on how their beliefs can impact their lives. Now it may seem that I am a "non-believer" in the power of positive thinking, or a skeptic when it comes to the "Law of Attraction" but I'm not... In fact, I must admit that I have several of those books on my own book shelf. Because, I do believe that how we act and think, what we believe and hold true in our hearts, will have an impact on how we behave and treat others, and how they treat us. Relationships are based on  this and if we can't find goodness in ourselves it will be hard to find goodness in others. If we treat ourselves harshly, we are likely to treat others the same way. So it is important to be kind to ourselves, to forgive our shortcomings, accept our imperfections, celebrate our efforts, even if we don't succeed... And to surround ourselves with others that can do the same. 

Here is a blessing hoping that you can surround yourself with a friend that sees in you a gentle light, that loves you for who you are, and appreciates you for all that makes you special.

A Friendship Blessing

by

John O'Donohue

May you be blessed with good friends,

May you learn to be a good friend to yourself.

May you be able to journey to a place in your soul where there is great love, warmth, feeling, and forgiveness. 

May this change you.

May it transfigure that which is negative, distant, or cold in you. 
May you be brought into the real passion, kinship, and affinity of belonging.

May you treasure your friends.

May you be good to them and may you be there for them: may they bring you all the blessings, challenges, truth, and light that you need for your journey.

May you never be isolated.

May you always be in the gentle nest of belonging with your "anam cara". 

Mo Anam Cara: Soul Mates and Leadership

Many cultures have beliefs related to soul-mates. The oldest dates back more than 5,000 years to the legend of the Egyptian Gods Osiris and Isis. The Greek Philosopher Plato (c. 385–380 BC.) talked about how god took one soul and split it into two forms, that of a man and a woman. Similar stories exist in both the Old Testament and the New Testament. Rabbinical literature refers to the soul-mate as a Beshert and Hinduism speaks of the universal soul.

Why my sudden interest in soul-mates, well it is not really a sudden interest. Perhaps, it is the romantic in me, perhaps too many fairy tales, or perhaps it is the fact that I believe I have found my soul-mate... but my latest interest is a result of the fact that I have recently been introduced to the work of John O' Donahue, an Irish Poet and Philosopher. 

In his book, Anam Cara, he describes a Celtic Spiritual tradition.  

 It is believed that the soul radiates all about the physical body, what some refer to as an aura. When you connect with another person and become completely open and trusting with that individual, your two souls begin to flow together. Should such a deep bond be formed, it is said you have found your Anam Cara or soul friend.

Your Anam Cara always accepts you as you truly are, holding you in beauty and light. In order to appreciate this relationship, you must first recognize your own inner light and beauty. This is not always easy to do. The Celts believed that forming an Anam Cara friendship would help you to awaken your awareness of your own nature and experience the joys of others.

According to John O'Donahue, an accomplished Irish poet, philosopher and Catholic priest, "...You are joined in an ancient and eternal union with humanity that cuts across all barriers of time, convention, philosophy and definition. When you are blessed with an anam cara, the Irish believe, you have arrived at that most sacred place: home." 

Information taken from this cite: http://www.basaltheritage.org/anamcaradesigns.com/meaningofaramcara.html

So what do soul-mates (or an Anam Cara) have to do with leadership? Over the past year and half the recurring theme in my leadership training has focused on the one thing that can truly turnaround a school culture... RELATIONSHIPS.

Anam Cara is the supreme relationship. It is a relationship based on the ultimate trust and respect,  it is focused on bringing out the best in others by understand one's self. This type of relationship is only possible when one is self aware, understands who they are, and is ready to share that with others. It is a relationship in which "You are joined in an ancient and eternal union with humanity." 

Many leaders emotionally separate themselves from their employees, they maintain that "professional distance." But perhaps to truly transcend our current limits and to redefine how we will operate our schools in the future, leaders need to connect with the people that they work with, and they may need to connect on a level that is much more personal and relevant. Perhaps this kind of "union with humanity" is what is needed to turn around today's school, so we can truly "cut across all barriers" in order to help all our kids learn and grow to their full human potential.

This post is dedicated to my "Mo Anam Cara," my soul-mate, my best friend, and the one that always inspires me to see things differently.

Take the First Step

"You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step." Martin Luther King, Jr.

What does this quote mean to you? What would you need in order to feel comfortable taking that first step? Would you need to have faith, trust, open mindedness, bravery, belief, desire, confidence? Would you need to feel desperate, frustrated, feed up, tired, anxious? Taking that first step could take you away from something or towards something. It could mean the end of one life or the beginning of another. What does this quote mean to you?

Life is about taking first steps and with each one we mark a milestone in our lives... A baby's first step across the room, a five-year old's first step into school, the step across the stage at graduation, across alter, and so many other first steps. With each, there is cause to celebrate as we move from one stage to the next, and it is also a time to reflect upon where we were, and what life was like before those steps were taken.

There have been many first steps in my life and a for a long time, I really wanted to see the whole staircase before I would take that first step. But in the past couple of years, I have come to believe that life isn't about where I will end up, rather it's the journey I will take to get there. Some call me brave or fearless for my willingness to embark on the journey despite not knowing where the future will take me. Some may call me foolish, for not having a clearly defined plan. The truth is it doesn't really matter what others think. I am on a path, I know not where... And yet the journey is grand. In the end, it is the journey that truly matters for it is the journey that defines us, and it is the journey that brings joy and meaning to our life.

Be bold, be brave, be adventurous, be in the moment... And take that step, for life is about living the unknown. So take the first step and see where the staircase leads.

Women in History Who Changed the World

Sometimes we look at what is in front of us and our life feels overwhelming. Perhaps we feel like we can not do this alone, perhaps we question why we are facing such challenges, or perhaps we wonder if we have the ability to live up to the expectations of others. When I find myself in such a position, I often turn to those I love for my pep talk but sometimes I think about the great woman that have come before me... those woman in our history that never let challenges become barriers, that persevered despite the obstacles that they faced. They are woman that changed the world for all of us... woman that help those of us that follow them know we can change the world too.

This post is dedicated to the...

Women in History Who Changed the World

You’ve come a long way, Baby!

We proudly remember some of the heroes and pioneers who shaped our world and changed the course of history. They fought for our rights, struggled to be free of discrimination and stereotypes, and refused to be locked into a role set forth by men, family, and society. They raised babies, but they also raised some hell and broke free of the conventions of the culture.

All women today come into the world on the shoulders of the ones who came before them. From the earliest suffragettes to the first woman to travel to space—and all the delightful and fierce females in between—these woman are the most awesome women in history.

Here are some quote that inspire me to do what I am doing:

"We never know how high we are
Till we are called to rise;
And then, if we are true to plan,
Our statures touch the skies."
— Emily Dickinson

"Aging is not 'lost youth' but a new stage of opportunity and strength."
— Betty Friedan

"I have learned over the years that when one's mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear."
— Rosa Parks

"Life is not easy for any of us. But what of that? We must have perseverance and above all confidence in ourselves. We must believe that we are gifted for something and that this thing must be attained."
— Marie Curie

"A woman is the full circle.  Within her is the power to create, nurture, and transform."
— Diane Mariechild

"The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don't have any."
— Alice Walker

"Without leaps of imagination, or dreaming, we lose the excitement of possibilities. Dreaming, after all, is a form of planning."
— Gloria Steinem   

"Don't let anyone rob you of your imagination, your creativity, or your curiosity. It's your place in the world; it's your life. Go on and do all you can with it, and make it the life you want to live."
— Mae C. Jemison

"To me success means effectiveness in the world, that I am able to carry my ideas and values into the world--that I am able to change it in positive ways." 

 — Maxine Hong Kingston

"If we don't change, we don't grow. If we don't grow, we are not really living. Growth demands a temporary surrender of security."
— Gail Sheehy

"You may be disappointed if you fail, but you are doomed if you don't try."
— Beverly Sills

"It is better to look ahead and prepare than to look back and regret."
— Jackie Joyner-Kersee

"Make a difference about something other than yourselves."
— Toni Morrison

This post reprinted from the this site: Inspiring Quotes from Woman

Did you have a year that matters?

In January 2013, I read one of Umair Hague's blogs in the Harvard Business Review. It was called  "How to have a year that matters."  In the article he challenged his readers to ask themselves several questions. Why are you here? What do you want? How much does it matter? What’s it going to take? Who’s on your side? Where’s your true north? What breaks your heart? What’s it worth?

For each question, he offered his thoughts, which were intended to challenge his readers to reflect. As I reflect on my own year, I wanted to share with you both his thoughts and my own, and perhaps in doing so it will lead you to reflect on your own year,  your life, and the decisions you will make in the new year.

 Why are you here?  Hague offers the suggestion that we are here to live a life that feels fully worth living. I agree with Hague, a life worth living... One that has purpose, one that positions us to do good for others, one that surrounds us with the people that mean the most to us, one in which we wake each day excited to see what awaits us. Too often we live our lives taking things and people for granted. We think that our life will always be the way it is now, but the truth is without attention, work, and care we risk losing those things that matter most. Instead we need to remember that if we truly value what we have, we need to work everyday to keep it. Each day is a gift, we do not know what tomorrow will hold so we need to take advantage of every moment we have with those we care the most about... by  cultivating and caring for those relationships with mentors, friends, and loved ones we can ensure that we have a life worth living.

What do you want? Hague wants to make a difference, to build that which counts, to experience what’s true, to do stuff that matters. Well said Umair. I agree completely!! What I want is to live a life with purpose, surrounded by positive people that want to love and be loved, to experience life to its fullest and most importantly, to make a difference in our world. For me, that starts with those around me, the kids in my school, the teachers I work with, those I advise, train, support, and mentor. Gandhi said, be the change you want to see in the world. The change I want to see in the world involves our kids, not just my own, but all of our kids, especially those that face a world of challenges... Because it is those kids that need us the most.  Understanding what I want has not come easy though, at different times in my life, I would have found it difficult to say what is was that I truly wanted. I was trapped in the day to day grind of doing work, but it wasn't until I began to reflect on the work I was doing that I realized I wasn't doing the right work. To truly live life to the fullest, you need to look beyond the limited scope of yourself and your own perspective, you need to begin to see a bigger picture, see possibilities, to see potential in people, and to see potential in yourself. When I moved beyond a life focused on status and stuff and moved towards a life full of meaning and purpose, I began to experience more clarity and gained a greater understanding of what I really wanted out of life. I owe some of that to people who saw in me more than I saw myself, people that believed I was capable of doing and being more than I was. That gave me confidence to step outside of the box I had created for myself, my safety zone, and once I did, my world opened up and I am a different person because of that, because of them.

How much does it matter?  Hague believes it means a lot if you want this to be a year that one day you don’t just remember, but that you still savor. My life over the past year has been one of amazing highs and devastating lows. Challenges that tested me to the very core of my being and rewards to bring me to great heights. Professional success on the heels of personal loss. My father, a very strong man, one that encouraged me to never give up on my dreams, and often served as my motivating force in this professional journey became very ill in March and in early October his body and his spirit grew too tired to continue to fight, he passed peacefully with my mother at his side. Much of the past year, I spent trying to balance the demands of full time work, full time school, and visits in and out of the intensive care unit. I reflect on all that has happened over the year, all the successes can easily be dulled by the sadness of my loss and yet the memory of my father and his belief that life must go on prevents me from allowing loss to cast a shadow on the light that shines within, a light I know he will help me continue to share with those around me... so how much does it matter? It matters a lot!

What’s it going to take?  Hague explains that you don’t get to a life well lived using tired capabilities. You need to “use” not just your whole mind, but to learn to employ your whole being: mind, heart, soul, and body and the arts of empathy, humility, passion, imagination, and rebellion. Based on my life this past year, I would add resiliency, perseverance, and patience. Thankfully, I have been able to muster much of what has been needed to do what it takes. However, it would be unfair to not give credit to those that have been by my side in this journey; my family, my friends, my co-workers and mentor, and the man that has served as my source of strength when I think I can't handle one more burden, my confidence when I think I can't take on one more task, he keeps me calm when my life seems out of control, he is my best friend, and the love of my life. While I know it takes an internal strength and determination to accomplish your goals, having a person in your life that truly believes in you and helps you be the best person you can be makes the challenges we may face a lot easier to deal with.

Who’s on your side?  Hague explains if you’re going to make a difference, you’re probably not going to make it happen all by your lonesome. Instead he challenges us to inspire and connect — and then, harder still, evoke the best in people. For it is the best in us that, in turn, elevates our capacity to love; the truest currency of a life well lived. And so respect is earned — and love given — not just to those who pander, but those who matter. As you can tell, what it takes and who is on your side overlap for me because I believe that "What it takes" can only be accomplished when we connect to others, we can't do anything alone. We all need other people in our life, otherwise we are not really living a life with purpose and meaning. So who is on my side... lots of people! I have been very fortunate to have several mentors guide my professional career, friends to make the journey a little easier, and loved ones to help keep me sane along the path. But with all of the challenges I have faced in the past few years, I think the one that has helped me the most is the man in my life. But whenever I try to credit him for my success, he tells me that he simply helped me believe in myself enough to allow what was always inside of me to shine through.  He truly is my hero.

Where’s your true north?  Hague asks in what direction do you find the stuff that makes life “good”? For me true north points in the direction of the people I love. In the end it is not the job we do that matters, it is not the money we make or the stuff we have, rather it is the love we share with others that will determine the richness of our lives. If my father taught me anything in his last months with us, it was the importance of being with the people we care most about, so my true north will always take me towards them.

What breaks your heart?  Hague also asks, what is it that breaks your heart about the world? It’s there that you begin to find what moves you. Look at a someone that has lost hope, that feels that their life lacks meaning or purpose, that they have no value... That breaks my heart. When that person is a child or someone I love... the heartache is beyond explanation.

What’s it worth?  Hague explains that a life well lived is going to take more than the tired old refrains of hard work, dedication, commitment, and perseverance. It’s going to take very real heartbreak, sorrow, grief, and disappointment. Only you can decide how much is too much. Is it worth it? The day my father passed away I was in class. He was in the hospital but we all expected him to recover from the pnemonia that was the cause of last visit to the emergency room. My brother was at the hospital and told me that he was resting easily and that he would stay with my father until I could join him after class. My father passed without ever waking from his morning slumber. I battled with my own sense of guilt about how I should have been there instead of being in school. Yet it was my father that made me promise not to let his illness prevent me from finishing this program, telling me he would never forgive himself if I quit (he was really good a dishing out the Jewish guilt!) So he would not have been happy to have had me miss class to be there. Is this worth it? My time in this program interferes with the time I have to spend with loved ones and family. Is it worth it? Sometimes I wonder. And then, I remember how my father cried when he saw me in my cap and gown and told me how he has never been more proud of me because the work I was doing would change the lives of kids that really needed me. And then I think of my daughter telling me how I inspire her to succeed, because if I can do this then she can. And then I think of my incredible man that tells me how proud he is of me and how I am the bravest woman he has ever met because I am not afraid to pursue my dreams. And I stop wondering if it is worth it... because, as hard as it is, as much as I have had to sacrifice, with the sorrow and grief, it IS WORTH IT.

This reflection was an attempt to determine if I had a year that matters. I have... it has been wonderful and terrible, challenging, and exhausting... but I am living a life that matters, full of purpose and meaning. I do not know what the coming year will bring but considering the past year I think I am up for whatever may come my way. And whatever that is, I know I will make sure that it matters.

Did you have a year that mattered? If not, what are you going to do this year to make sure that you do?

The Next Step in My Leadership Journey

Well the big day is quickly approaching... Graduation. On Tuesday, I will graduate from FAU and Phase 1 of the PROPEL Program. I have earned my degree in Ed. Leadership, my Level 1 Certification and have completed LEAD... all the requirements necessary for me to apply for an Assistant Principal position in my district. The Propel Program is a Race to the Top grant funded program that partnered FAU, the state, and my district to redesign leadership training. This program focused on the latest research, real world practical experience and provided specialized training designed to help me work in our district's neediest school... Turn Around Leaders... Change Agents... whatever they want to call the members of my cohort, we were specially selected for this rigorous, intensive program, and on Tuesday, I will walk across the stage to celebrate this milestone... my Graduation!

But my celebration will be short lived, because on August 22 I will be back in school as I begin Phase 2 of the program, and start working on my Level 2 certification (Credentials to be be a Principal). In this next phase, I will spend 30 days between September and December working with a principal in one of our district's struggling schools. I will be assigned a task to help "turn around" the school... I will be expected to develop and implement a plan for increasing student achievement,  parent involvement, recruiting community partnerships, or whatever other challenge the principal wants me to tackle in the time I will be spending in the school. 

This first phase of my training has been intensive, and I look forward to putting it to good use working with students and schools that need someone with the skills that this program has been providing. My fellow cohort members and I eagerly await the opportunity to be someplace where we can make a difference in the lives of the families and students we will work with. I began this blog as a chronicle of my leadership journey, and will continue it as I move into Phase 2 of the training and hopefully after that as I highlight the challenges of being a new leader. 

But until then... I thought  share a picture of the cap I will wear to graduation on Tuesday. My daughter "bedazzled" it for me.

Developing Resiliency

Resiliency... I have thought a lot about this word lately, struggling with challenges that have tested my own resiliency, watching as those that I love endure their own struggles and trying to encourage them to be resilient. However tonight, the word resilient took on a new meaning, because tonight I attended the funeral of someone who found that they were not longer able to be resilient. It was sad, sad for the family, sad for his friends, and sad for those us there to support the family even though we never met the man for whom the funeral was taking place. The minister giving the eulogy reflected on psalms, spoke of the family left grieving, and shared his belief that in times of need we need to turn to a higher power for a source of strength. I listened and wondered how often during the last year as this man suffered he turned to a higher source. I do not mean for this to sound as if I am trying to blast religion, because I know that many people find great strength in their beliefs. Rather, I wonder about those that don't find that strength. I think about my father and reflect on how his faith has been shaken because he cannot understand why has to suffer. Then I wonder why there are those that suffer way more than my father and somehow seem to find a way through it without being shaken... Resiliency? I don't know, but as you have probably figured out from reading previous blogs, whenever I wonder about things, I start doing some research. Perhaps this research was a little more urgent and personal, because I hope that what I learn I can share with the people that I care about, those having their own resiliency tested.

In my research, I came across articles, books, even a few Army training videos. I watch speeches given by various presidents after national tragedies and listened to news videos in which various psychologists gave tips and advice. However, when I came across a video by Dr. Sirols something clicked. What she had to say made sense, real practical advise that I could share- quick and easy tips on ways to help people develop their resiliency. Nothing like a "fast track" mentality for developing a skills that can save your life, but I figure if it can help someone, why not share what I learned which is what I am attempting to do in this blog. So here goes...

3 Ways to help develop resiliency (Dr. Sirols)

1. Mindfulness- Become at peace with yourself through relaxation, meditation, reflection, journaling or whatever you find relaxing. (I guess this blog might serve as my path to mindfulness!!).

2. Live Authentically- Live the life you know you should be living. (Dr. Sirols put it poetically in the video so I will let you listen to her yourself!)

3. Move- Move towards those things that bring meaning, purpose, and joy into your life. So often we are paralyzed by fear. We resist acting because we are afraid that it will not help the situation, but Einstein would call that insanity- doing the same thing and expecting different results. The only way to move forward it start moving, even if we fall back a little, we will never get ahead if we stay in the same spot.

Most importantly... To be resilient we need to be connected and we need to turn away from the negative thinking... why me? 

I am not a psychologist, not a counselor, and not an expert... but what Dr. Sirols said in her video made sense to me. It was consistent with my thinking and my experience. My desire to share this video, comes with a hope that if you are finding yourself in place where your resiliency is being challenged, where you feel that you are being tested, that perhaps you will find this information helpful. The saddest moment in life is when we see those we love lose hope and give up... if this can help someone find a way to fight through the rough times, to bounce back, have faith, believe that things can and will get better, then this blog will have accomplished what I hoped it would... what I hope it will!

The Perfect School

             The professor stood before our class... "You have reflected on your Leadership Mission and Vision" She was right, in fact I have been reflecting on that since I began this program more than a year ago. She then began to engage us in a fantasy trip... "Imaging yourself in the future, you have had a successful career and are finding yourself in your perfect school." With more than 15 tasks and less than 3 weeks before graduation, I didn't not fancy spending the time to engage in a fantasy. But as she later explained describing "Our Future Perfect School" was one of the documents we needed to complete before graduation. So in the midst of finalizing a research proposal, finishing a literature review, creating my mission and vision, I began my fantasy trip to my perfect school and what I found was that it turned out to be more than a fantasy excursion, rather it served as an opportunity to reflect on those things that I would love to build in a school... a school with no budget restraints, with an incredibly positive culture, a school where I can be the kind of leader I would love to be.

As you read about my perfect school in the future, take a minute to consider what kind of school you would create if there were no excuses, what type of relationships would exist there, what would you build?The following was written as if I were writing it 5-10 years in the future.

                                           My Perfect School in the Future

               A few years back, I read an article by Shelley Plock. The article was titled “21 Things That Will Become Obsolete in Education by 2020.” She spoke about how books and desktop computers would be non-existent, and with the explosion of technology taking place at that time; I thought that the article was not only interesting, but also completely possible. I can remember feeling excited about the prospect of leading the kind of change she was describing, the kind of change that was so desperately needed in our district. In those early years, I was so unsure of my ability to lead that change, but since then I have learned that my passion and belief in people was what I really needed to become the change leader that I am today.

             Over the years, I have grown into my role and I am so amazed by how lucky I feel to have ended up in this school with this incredibly dedicated staff. I really never thought that I would be fortunate enough to be in the forefront of leading change initiatives for my district and yet, here I am! The staff at this school is an amazing group of professionals willing to embrace innovation. By creating an environment in which the staff feels staff to try new things, they have become risk-takers and have eagerly embraced opportunities to become change agents. I have always believed that learning is a life long endeavor. That every experience, both good and bad, provides an opportunity to learn a lesson; you simply need to be willing to reflect upon the experience and use it to guide future actions in order to fully grasp the learning potential.  If I claim a main victory as a leader, it is the fact that everyone here; the teachers, staff, students, parents, and even the community members we are involved with have join me in the belief that learning does not stop at our school gates or when the bell rings.

            This united vision of learning that extends beyond the classroom has resulted in our development of a model of collaboration never before seen in this district. This model is one in which students, teachers, parents and members of our community learn together, both in in our school, as well as, in our community. The traditional structure of classrooms does not work for everyone, so sometimes we change that and take learning out of the classroom. Our teachers challenge themselves to do whatever is necessary to improve learning for everyone in our community. When I say community, I do mean the entire community. With our outreach program, students can see how school skills are used in the work force. Parents and partners share their expertise by bring real-world experience into our school and by taking our students out into the real world. Students learn the value of education as they work to enhance not only their own life but also those of others in our community. That is one of the wonderful things that have come out of our model of collaboration and partnerships. Collectively we have created a sense of community for our school, it is in fact the center of learning for not only our students but also their families. Innovative thinking at our school means that our community of learners looks for opportunities to learn and grow together in a multitude of meaningful ways. Math skills are more meaningful when used to calculate the amount of paint that is needed to paint the house of one of our elderly neighbors or the clubhouse at our local park, and the value of becoming involved with the people in our community in a significant way has created a sense of commitment and purpose for our students. Learning is relevant when students see how they can use it to help others; it brings meaning to their lives, and motivates them to work harder. Our teachers have embraced the principals of servant leadership as a means of helping our students and their families learn and grow to their full potential. But I cannot claim full credit for this, in fact, our collective vision has evolved through a process vested in collaboration, and shared leadership.

            Many teacher leaders have stepped up to move us towards becoming more socially conscious, all in an attempt to overcome many of the barriers that our students were facing. Driven by data and informed decision making, my staff is always seeking solutions rather than settling for excuses, and it has been this tenacious pursuit that has propelled us forward to the point that we are seeing learning gains beyond anything that anyone believed possible, everyone that is except for my staff. They have always set high expectations for all our students and have worked to help them achieve those goals.

            Key here is that fact that everyone in our “learning community” believes our students will grow to become productive members of our society. While every student is not destined to become a doctor, lawyer or engineer, everyone in a community plays a role. In our community that means that everyone: the facilities staff, cafeteria workers, clerical staff, paraprofessionals, parents, partners, clergy, everyone, plays a role in mentoring and serving as role models for our students. Each student has an adult that takes a special interest in his or her success, helping guide them, support them, encourage them, and show them the value of education. When students know that there is someone that cares that much about their success, it is empowering. When students see the adults in their world working together towards a common goal, they see the value of that behavior and they emulate it in the behavior. They work harder to make sure that they are not disappointing their teachers and their mentors, and as a result, their level of success has sky rocketed. The added benefit within our organization is that teachers see the value and benefits of the involvement of all these individuals and as a result the staff has developed such strong interpersonal relationships that it has created a united sense of solidarity; a “we are all in this together” mentality. This mentality has propelled individuals to a greater involvement in our school and throughout our community, which in turn creates more commitment. It is a wonderful cycle of involvement and respect.

            I know that many people will look at what we are doing and see us as the exception rather than the rule, but I truly believe that education has to continue to evolve in order to meet the changing demands of our society. As an instructional leader, I see my role as a facilitator of learning. By ensuring that my staff and community stays current with the latest research, by creating an error tolerant environment, my staff and students will feel comfortable being risk-takers. T.S. Elliot said, “Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far they can go.” I believe my staff is still figuring out how far we can go, and when we get there it will be incredible! Someday my time at this school will be done, when that day comes I know that the involvement and commitment here will continue so that our students and our community will continue to thrive. I believe that the model for collaboration we have begun is an example of what education can and should be, and that will be my legacy.

What would your perfect school look like... What are you doing to create it... What are we all doing to create it?

           

Personal Mission & Vision

I am nearing the end of the first phase of my leadership journey, that is the completion of my certification and endorsements that will qualify me to serve as an Assistant Principal in my district. The PROPEL Leadership program is a specially designed intensive program focused on training us to be change agents for our district, "Turn Around" leaders. Extensive training in leading change, building culture, learning how to capitalize on short term wins to make long term gains... reframing organizations. 

A year's worth of theories, Meta-analyses, high effect size strategies, Instructional leadership.

Names like: Hattie, Reeves, Marzano, Fullen, Drago-Severson, Northouse, Senge, Collins, Allison, McNulty, Robinson, Boleman, Deal, Whitaker. The Wallace report... the list goes on, and on, and on!

90-90-90 schools, 21st century Learning, Common Core, Florida Principal Leadership Standards

Being asked what we believe, what do we value as leaders, what are our "bone deep beliefs... those things that we would be willing to drop our keys on the desk and walk away if they did not exist...

This blog has been a digital reflection of my learning throughout the last year. Moving forward into Phase 2, I will continue to reflect on the next part of my journey, but for now I want to share one of the last tasks I was ask to do in this phase of the program. Below you will find my Personal Mission and Vision. It expresses those "Bone Deep Beliefs" they have been asking us to consider over the past year and it contains my hope for my future in leadership. Perhaps reading it will inspire some to take the leadership journey, perhaps it will remind others why they already took the journey, and perhaps it will simply give you hope for the future of education... because in the hands of those that I have worked with over the past year, we are committed to making a difference for those students that need us the most.

Good Luck to my fellow Cohort Members... May the passion and promise of the future burn bright in you always!

          My personal “Leadership Mission” focuses on my ability to combine leadership skills, intentions and actions in a way that can enhance the lives of others. But what does this mean? The word leadership conjures up as many meanings as there are individuals considering it’s meaning. It is a complex process; constantly evolving, and when implemented with sincerity and purpose, it has the potential to have a positive, dynamic impact on people. Leadership plays a significant role in the lives of every individual regardless of how it is defined.

            For me Leadership can best be broken down into three separate aspects: Skills, Intentions and Actions. Leadership Skills requires individuals to have both a conceptual understanding and a perceptual understanding. The conceptual understanding might also be called the science of leadership, that is, the knowledge of effective leadership strategies, an understanding of how to motivate individuals, and a familiarity with ways to support adult growth and development. The perceptual understanding might best be described as “soft skills,” that is those people skills necessary for building relational trust, the with-it-ness to respond in the moment, and the ability to “read” your audience so you know when your message is being well received.

            Leadership Intentions are more introspective and reflective. Leadership intentions are about core values, those things that define your character and your personal beliefs. One of my key leadership intentions is to be a life-long learner. I believe that we need to continue to take advance of opportunities to not only grow as individuals through reflective practices but we need to also help others reach their full potential. This type of servant leadership is central to my leadership intentions. I also believe it is important to maintain a professional demeanor, one in which I make ethical decisions, set high expectations, and take personal responsibility for my actions. Integrity, honesty, commitment, and passion are aspects of this professionalism and are essential to my core values.

            Finally, leadership takes action. I believe leaders need to have a strong voice for change. They need to support and encourage creative, innovative thinking by creating an environment in which individuals feel safe to take risks. Leaders need to recruit and maintain partnerships and involve all stakeholders in order to develop a framework for collaboration that will increase opportunities for success. Leadership action means that we seek solutions rather than settling for excuses, facing each challenge head on without allowing them to become barriers. Leadership action means that we set high standards; for ourselves and for everyone we work with. It means that we create the belief that anything worth doing is worth doing well… we find the right way not the easy way, and excellence is an expectation not an exception. When leaders take action, we ensure that everyone understands that they play a role in the success of the organization, their ideas, their input and their effort are required and valued.

            These three leadership aspects combined incorporate my personal values, those things that are of utmost importance to me as a person and as a leader. They make up the core of my personal “Leadership Mission.”

            My personal “vision” takes my mission and places it into the future. The vision manifested as a school leader would focus on my ability to create a framework for collaboration in which all stakeholders can work together to create a school that is central to the community, one in which high expectations lead to student achievement and personal growth. However, my vision for the future does not end as a school leader. I have always believed that my true calling is to impact education on a broader scale. My curriculum knowledge, ability to write, my innovative thinking, and my passion for education extends beyond the scope of a single school or even a single district. My vision for the future places me in a position to impact education at the state or national level. With a strong belief that our system needs to be reformed in a way that we are able to create a landscape where industry and education can come together to enhance opportunities for all students, where learning extends into the real-world, where classrooms no longer exist solely within the confines of a building, and where people of all ages come together to learn; my vision for my future in leadership places me in a position to provide innovative ideas that will change the way we learn for decades to come.