Summer!!!!....Sort of : /

Well summer has arrived.

Summer of 2013, the summer following my third year as a principal.  The funny thing is that back in 2010, I expected this summer to be much more peaceful than the prior three years.  Needless to say, the changes in the educational landscape and my district have not provided for leisure! Rather, I have mapped out each day during the summer to see how much I can "get done" before the doors open in September.

Ironically, I am still in the same position, but my heart is screaming for a change.  Even though change is coming as far as the educational landscape, I still yearn for more.  I wonder if I am being a drama queen...maybe this is the best it will be..."the grass is always greener"....is it really????

I feel stuck in the middle!  My hire up admins tell me what to do, and the union backs my staff to fight the changes that I want to implement.  I need a union or a lawyer...or I just need to sit back and accept the status quo....I am not a status quo girl!

I believe in doing the right thing for children.  I believe in going out on a limb for the underrepresented. I believe in the power of change.

Is there anyone left that believes in the difference that one person can make?


hmmm.....I hope so.

Jen

Today

Well, truth be told, it has  months since I have written.  Life, and job have gotten in the way. Also, the fact that I have zero following has not been inspirational.

Today's actions have led me to post.  I truly believe that today's actions are not about gun law, but rather support for those that are emotionally impaired.  We need to be proactive!    Ask any kindergarten teacher to share the kiddos that they are concerned about.  He or she can almost predict those kiddos that we should support.

Today's actions are unintelligible.  I am saddened by the state of affairs, but I am hopeful that one day we will have the resources to support the needs of all kiddos.

I am tired of looking back to learn.....I want to reach out to look forward to learn, live and thrive!

God bless the loss that impact so many....our hearts are broken today.

Jen

Well reality has settled in, I am a really horrific blogger.  I am now entering year three of my principalship...and just when I think I am beginning to get it...BAM...two new curricula, Common Core and so much more!!  Regardless of the changes, I am still enthusiastic and hopeful.  I did finish my Doctoral work and looked for other positions, but, after three other job options, I decided to stay put. So many people in the district think that I am CRAZY, but timing is essential.  I would not feel right about leaving my staff in year three.

I so wish I had some followers or even better some people to interact with.

Hello, Anyone Out There

So, I have made it to year two!!  I have finished my Doctoral program and I am waiting to feel different.  The truth is, this has been a great lesson.  Even though I have more experience and have Dr. before my name....I am still the same.  I am still looking for a mentor. I did find a kindred spirit in my Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, but they just left for a different position.   I love my job, but I want to stretch my learning.
Jen

Mentors

This year has gone by so quickly that it is difficult to really comprehend the whole 180 days.  Each day has brought a new adventure and learning experience, but with each new day, it seems to erase the prior experiences.  I have found that I have to focus on the moment at hand and do not have much time to digest or think about the prior day's experience. 

One thing that I do wish was different this year is having a mentor.  For some reason I was not given an official mentor.  I know that this position could be fruitless if it is not the right match, but that being said...someone (I think) would have been better than no one.

There have been some days that a voice of reason would have been helpful.  There have been some days that any voice would have been helpful!!!  Trust me, I am not one to shy away from asking for help. I understand the importance of perspective and different points of view. 

At times, I would call my Superintendent directly.  She was a Godsend~but believe it or not she recently passed away. This totally unexpected happening has left fewer and fewer people to rely on. I am not complaining, just stating the facts.  I miss her terribly and wish I valued her more when she was living.  I did not understand how blessed I was until it was all taken away.

I have learned that those that are truly willing to help are far and few between, but that does not mean I should give up.  I believe that I need to widen my net and cast a bit deeper.  There must be those who are willing ro share, collaborate, and learn together.  I cannot, and will not believe that this position is as isolating as it has felt this year...and if I find that this is the reality, then I will work to change it for those who come after me. 

Ok...I need a mentor...any takers???
Jen

Year One

Well, I am just about to finish year one and the lesson I have learned is...there is so much I have to

learn!

I the principal of an elementary school that is one of the most sought after schools in the district. I am the principal of a school that is blessed with wonderful teachers who have been deprived of the much needed professional growth and nurturing. They are a wonderful group of women who are in need of professional guidance.

I am the mother of two. I have a very precocious six year old, and a very devious three year old. I am a doctoral student...in desperation of finishing my program!! I have a lot on my plate, but I am not willing to eliminate one thing in favor of the other.

I would love to hear from others who are in year one...I truly believe that this is a pivotal year...a year to build on the future...my future and the future of those that I may impact.