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 A Letter to My Staff
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 Fresh Paint: A Resilience Metaphor
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 Slow Down to be Fulfilled, Focused, and Purposeful
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 My “Not-to-Do” List [first draft]
Lately, I have been reading A LOT about social-emotional learning, alternatives to traditional discipline (i.e. restorative practices, mediation, mindfulness), physical classroom environments, and other unique ways to support the students and staff members of our school community. Not only are these subjects of personal passion, I know that effectively managing our learning space and working … Continue reading Improving Personally to Improve Collectively: A Few Reflection Questions
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 The Redefined Principal Project, Part 1b
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 Let My Students Play
