Chronicles of a fatally flawed human's efforts to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly in our world.
July 22, 2018 To the Exceptional Staff at Willis Junior High School, We are embarking on what I believe is the most important week of the school year. As I write this letter, our campus is quiet and empty, but on Monday morning it will be abuzz with activity as our students return for the... Continue Reading →
I spent Saturday morning at school painting classrooms. Lately, I have been a bit discouraged about the physical appearance of our facilities and the unspoken message that dingy walls, stained carpet, institutional like classrooms, and dated buildings send to our students and parents. Over time, things wear out, students spill things, ink pens break, and... Continue Reading →
We have several dogs. One is a West Highland Terrier (a Westie) named Kosmo. Kosmo has a personality that matches his name -- he is mischievous, full of energy, quirky, and strong-willed. One of my favorite things to do is take Kosmo to the local dog park where he is free to run wild and... Continue Reading →
This post is Part II of The Redefined Principal Project. And every day, the world will drag you by the hand, yelling, “This is important! And this is important! And this is important! You need to worry about this! And this! And this!” And each day, it’s up to you to yank your hand back,... Continue Reading →
Part 1b of a series (read part 1a here: The Journey Back to Me) For what it’s worth... it’s never too late, or in my case too early, to be whoever you want to be. There’s no time limit. Start whenever you want. You can change or stay the same. There are no rules to this... Continue Reading →
It has occurred to me that we could dramatically improve school climate at almost any school by ensuring easy access to a beach. Simple. The cool, salty air and the inviting sound of crashing waves would be enough to calm teachers and students. In addition, a quick swim or surfing session would surely reduce student... Continue Reading →
Today, my parents are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. Not only am I very proud of their devotion to one another, I am incredibly thankful for their parenting and support. I am blessed. This week, I finished my nineteenth year in education, and my seventh as a principal. In that time, I have seen the... Continue Reading →
Friday was a tough day. I had a long list of things to do -- things I had carefully arranged on my calendar to be certain they would all be completed. The day began as planned, with the final session of a book study on The Happiness Advantage with a small group of staff members.... Continue Reading →
For the past several weeks, I have been sending the following email to my teaching staff. I call it, my office opt out. If you would like some principal assistance, I have the following openings available for this week: [this is followed by specific dates and class periods] I am willing to: Give (or monitor)... Continue Reading →
