ROCKtober

Do you ever have those moments when you pause and ask yourself — Am I where I’m supposed to be? Am I doing the right work? Am I really making a difference? If you’ve ever felt that way, you’re not alone. Today I want to remind you — you were called for such a time as this.

As a leader in public education, especially in today’s world, I have those moments too. Moments when I forget. I forget that I asked to serve. I forget that I asked to lead. I forget that I prayed for this opportunity — this gift. When I take a step back, I’m reminded that I get to do one of the most meaningful and impactful jobs there is. I get to watch students flourish, learn, and grow. I get to see teachers change the trajectory of their students’ lives. I get to meet with principals and leaders who are passionate about learning, leading, and transforming their communities.

This is the gift.

This is the call.

This is the work.

Still, there are times we lose focus — at least I do. In education, we often talk about October being a hard month. And welp… it’s true. It’s challenging, it’s heavy, and it can feel never-ending. But even in the midst of those challenges, I’m reminded that it’s all part of the process and the journey. Growth rarely happens without a little struggle.

What I’ve learned (and continue to learn) is that we need one another. We cannot — and should not — do this work alone. We need someone to say, “I see you.” We need that colleague who shares a hug or a smile when we’re not quite ourselves. We need that quick text that reminds us to breathe, to smile, and to keep going. We need encouragement just as much as we give it — and sometimes we forget to let ourselves receive it.

I actually meant to share this reminder earlier this month, but life has been truly life-ing. So as we close out October and step into sweet November, I just want to remind you — we have so much to be thankful for. We get to make a difference in the lives of students, staff, families, and communities.

We get to change trajectories and offer hope. We get to work in the most important profession in the world.

We get to make a difference — every single day.

And yes, I’ll admit, there are moments when I forget. In the midst of pouring into others, I sometimes forget to pause and simply witness all the beauty happening in our schools and classrooms. But when I do slow down, I’m reminded just how powerful our collective work truly is. As we move through the fall semester, let’s silence the noise, refocus, and walk confidently in our purpose. Someone is watching you — and learning from you — as you lead.

I’m honored to be on this journey with you. Let’s keep our focus, hold onto our joy, and continue to #InspireExcellence.