When effective, qualified teachers vanish from the workforce.

When effective, qualified teachers vanish from the workforce.

One year my granddaughter had an unusually special teacher. Mr. M was kind, structured, positive, and a knew how to ignite a child’s imagination in the classroom. Every day he would write a thought-provoking question or a quote on the board for students to explore throughout the day. As challenges arose, he would help students brainstorm and persevere until they found solutions. In his classroom, every voice mattered; he recognized every child’s unique contribution, talked about their strengths, and challenged them to not to settle. The last day of school he even met with students one by one to encourage their career aspirations and tell them what special genius they brought to the classroom.

A Vision of Hope & Change

A Vision of Hope & Change

There are moments in life when we are privileged to meet someone whose leadership is culture shaping and whose vision is bringing hope and change – rippling out to increasing levels of impact for us today, and for generations to come. For me, Quincy Natay is one of those rare leaders who makes me feel like I am watching the future find wings and take flight.

The People Who Make The Difference

The People Who Make The Difference

Today there are multitudes of children from all kinds of backgrounds who need the same investment that I received as a child. I see their faces and I realize how much value they have and how much potential they hold. These kids need consistent, trustworthy adults who will pay attention to their unique strengths and struggles. Student centered learning is more than tailoring our academic approach to the individual needs of children. It is also walking alongside their families to help them grow in resilience, providing the resources needed to overcome learning disabilities, or the support of mental health professionals when they struggle with anxiety or depression. Our schools are places where the whole community can come together to provide resources for our kids and families. This is not a platitude. It is often the very thing that makes the difference. I was the recipient of powerful community support connected through my local school. As an adult, I have watched it change the trajectory of so many lives. It is the thing that gets me up in the morning and it is what gives me vision for the future.