Defeat, Support, and Being a Caring Adult...

I have written blog posts in the past regarding "failing forward." I do believe at my core that we learn from our failures.  I also do believe that we become more and more resilient to adversity as we encounter new challenges along our journey of life.

However, despite the ease of of writing and talking about failing forward and being resilient, there is a different feeling of angst when someone you love dearly is handed a major blow or let down.  In some ways it is harder  to see your loved ones go through heartbreak as you have no control over the situations and yet you want nothing but happiness for them.  I believe our role as adults is to provide encouragement, stability, and love through the difficult times.  I am blessed to have two girls that I can support and love through their many trials life will bring their way.

Let's all pause for a moment and think about all the students that will walk through our doors today and tomorrow.  What potential heartbreak or adversity did they endure the day/night before?  Did they have the luxury of having a caring, loving adult in their home to provide them reassurance, love, and support? Some of our students would be able to answer yes, but others are not so lucky and are reliant on themselves to get through the challenging times.  Please think about each of your students INDIVIDUALLY as you welcome them to school each day. Take the time to Know Their Face, Know Their Name, and Know Their Story.  It is our OBLIGATION and our mission to support EVERY student.  We must treat ALL students with Respect and Dignity. We also have the obligation to support them, meet their needs, and ensure they leave our schools better than when they entered.

We must not forget our work and our purpose. We are here for the STUDENTS!!