Leading the Learning or Learning through Leading?: Being Open to Change

I have spent the last hour searching Google for quotes and images that will help me put into words the emotions I am juggling today. I have been presented with an amazing opportunity to do something I have always dreamed of doing, but I have to leave behind a group of educators who are some of the most talented and committed educators I know.

I joined Stall Brook School as their principal last year. We spent the year creating an authentic, supportive culture in our school that was honest, supportive and encouraged the growth of everyone in our building. Near the end of the year, we drafted the 2018-2019 school goals, redesigned our co-teaching teams, created a professional development plan, determined the next steps with student interventions, and so much more. Several teachers moved classrooms over the summer and they were excited about the new year in their new roles and spaces.

And then I saw an irresistible position posted on School Spring in another district- Assistant Director of Elementary Education. I have always wanted to be a district leader, supporting and developing building principals and teachers in this capacity, a role aligned with my passions and strengths. At first, I wasn't going to apply, but then I couldn't get the position out of my head. Over the course of a week, I applied, was called for an interview, interviewed, was offered the position, accepted the position and resigned from my current principal-ship. So very exciting and so very overwhelming all at the same time.

I am in a transition period- still at my old school completing schedules, creating a guide for the new principal and other summer tasks. It has been so hard to look at the staff- custodians, teachers, and others with tears in their eyes. They are mad, sad, disappointed, and scared. I went into school over the weekend (when no one was there) to clean out almost everything from my office to avoid any uncomfortable interactions. I know everything is going to work out for the best for them, but I just feel terribly guilty right now.

As for my new district- everyone has been fantastic so far! I had my ID taken, filled out all of the HR paperwork, and even moved in some essentials into my new office. I won't officially start until the end of the month (and a BIG part of me wishes I could just start tomorrow!).

So here are the quotes I found today during my Google search. I'm sharing them with the hope that they will inspire others who have had to make tough decisions, too.