Never in my dreams would I believe what the role of principal encompasses. Just like teacher prep programs, there are case studies and "in-theory" discussions that help prepare you for the day and life of a principal, but not until you deal with loss do you really understand your purpose.
I've been challenged recently with my motto, Just Love. As you've followed me on my journey, you have seen a pretty consistent path of safe moves, calm demeanor, and passion to build capacity in others through servant leadership. Buzzwords kill the impact of your purpose when people misuse the phrases you aspire to become. There are many that talk the talk but not until you see and feel staff hurting and struggling do you analyze if you're walking the walk.
Leadership is not just management, academic success, culture, climate, finance, transportation, assessment... it's relationships. It's the most critical piece in leadership, building strong relationships with everyone you meet. Leaders must build and equip the boat big enough for all to enter and row, together. No one stays in the front and when the oar breaks, others lend theirs until you can get a new one. For me, it's not just building a relationship, it's seeing the good and finding love for each person you meet. This world needs more love.
Today my staff is grieving a colleague. No one prepares you how to lead through that. No one. My spirit is guided by how I can just love them. What do they need? How can I create an environment that is safe to cry, embrace the reality, feel loved, and to acknowledge it's ok to feel emotion with kids. How do we talk to our 4th graders that lost a teacher, with the possibility this may be the first death they have ever experienced? How do you lead through this storm?
My dad's death, again, has prepared me for this moment as a leader. Ironically his birthday is next week and he's been on my mind a lot. I've seen a friend struggling with the loss of her father, and I've been reliving my emotions. I remember being where she is and it hurts. Now, I will have an entire staff to navigate and love to ensure their emotions are heard and felt.
I also know with death comes life. This week will be a blessing. A very close friend will be delivering a baby on the birthday of another close friend, that will be celebrating the bittersweet anniversary of her baby girl. Life's journey puts all the right people in your path at just the right time. That's why when a door opens, never question God's push; listen and go. He is guiding all of these situations as we live moment by moment. I will love them all through it, while knowing it looks different for each circumstance.
My outlet has always been to write and take pictures. It drives my family, and I'm sure my staff, crazy. This life is so precious and I want to be able to celebrate every moment. I miss the guidance my dad provided, but I feel I am living his ultimate legacy by leading through the lens of love. So while it may not be the most popular leadership style it is the one I chose to live. Just love, live in peace, and celebrate this life we've been given. Find your passion, live your dream and don't settle for less!
We all watched Janet put up the strongest fight for her family and students. Her passion was to teach. What a fierce colleague we have all lost. May her family and our Charles family feel the love and support over the days to come.
Well done, Janet!
Just Love,
Kirsten
In memory of Janet Day; 2nd grade teacher at Charles Elementary
