Each of us are enduring an unprecedented school year unlike any that we have ever encountered before. For a good number of us the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has brought anxiety, stress, and uncertainty. I have been encouraged to remember my why when I am facing adversity or in the middle of difficult times. Recently I took some time to focus on my why. Each of us are at different points in our careers but remembering your why helps center you during stressful times. Storms will come and go but your why will serve as an anchor during those challenging times. As educators none of us are perfect, each one us are learning and growing each day. Dating back to March, I know this year has been a challenge for just about everyone in some form or another both personally and professionally. It is important that we continue to extend grace and mercy to each other as we may not know the struggles that our colleagues may be enduring at any given time. We must continue to attack problems and seek solutions in a collaborative effort. In toxic school cultures people attack people and seek to assemble in little groups that spread negativity under the surface which acts as a poison to true collaboration and school improvement efforts. The challenges we have encountered, and the uncertainity that has surrouned our profession has not stopped us from continuing to display hard work, dedication, and commitment.That is because regardless of the adversity that we can continue to face, educators continue to act with the best interest of students at heart. As a fellow educator I can't thank each of you enough for your sacrifices and your willingness to show up each day. As educators we have to be more determined than ever to help our schools become the best version of themselves. We have to be relentess in helping lead schools that focus on the whole child by working to meet their academic, social, and emotional needs. There will be adversity and there will be challenges, it is during those times that we must rely on our anchor of why!
Proud member of the Wolf Pack
Preston Clarke