First year finish line

Next week marks the successful completion of my first year as a school principal. I’m glad I’m not a betting man because there is no way I would have guessed what this past year would have included. It has been a year of growth and successes, but also a number of missteps. I have worked hard to develop a strong and cohesive team of professionals that are all focused on the same goal. I am proud of what I have accomplished and I look forward to what comes next. The hard work engaging with all of my teachers and working with them proved to be positive and I’m pleased with some of the adjustments that most of them have begun to make. I know that change can take a while, and I have to remain focused on working with these teachers again in the fall to keep us all navigating down the same path.

It has been interesting to navigate through this unprecedented time with COVID-19 having such an impact on all of society. The debate whether schools will open up again in the fall is yet to be seen, but it definitely has started quite the discussion around the importance and necessity of the role of schools in day-to-day life. I have already found myself reflecting on how I will best lead my team into this unknown. I am anticipating a great deal of questions from staff over the summer, and that is okay. I know that I will be thinking about how I can help ensure that my staff’s well-being is looked after, but at the same time that we are doing what is best for our students. I need to continue to be the rock and support point for all my staff if we are to be successful.

I feel like I have just run a marathon and I’m ready for a break. I’m tired, exhausted, and out of juice. I think it’s okay to admit this feeling. What I (and my colleagues) have been through has been a challenge and I’m happy to be coming out the other side. I will make a point of resting and relaxing this summer because I know September is going to be exciting.