Believe

Here we are at the beginning of another school year.  For some, it is your first year in this building...in this profession.  Others can count on two hands the number of new school years they have experienced here and perhaps other places.  No matter what year it is for you, there are always feelings of excitement and nervousness.  Some days one feeling overpowers the other, but I feel it is these two feelings that get us gearing up for the year at hand.

As you enter the weekend before our year officially begins, remember those things we talked about yesterday:

• Build Relationships: Relationship building need not be huge and grand, but rather small and genuine.  The simplest of words and gestures can impact you, your colleagues, and your students greatly.
• Nobody is Bigger Than the Team:  Working together allows us to be strong leaders and teachers.  We should strive to make each other better.  Listen to each other and work towards making our team one in which we inspire each other.
• Be Curious:  Ask questions.  Read more.  Find out about your craft.  Find out more about those around you.
• Don't Take Things Personally:  It is hard, but don't let haters get you down.  Do what is best for your students.
• Be a Goldfish:  Yep.  This one and the previous one may be the two hardest things on this list.
• Optimism is Contagious:  Spread sunshine...not germs.  And if you find yourself in a germy area, it is ok to walk away.  
• Make the Tough Calls:  Don't ignore problems.  Call parents.  Get them on board with you.  Not dealing with it right away leads to bigger problems down the road.
• Believe:  Believe in Believe.  Believe in your craft.  Believe in your students. Believe in you.

I wish you all a great year.  If anyone is game for "Biscuits With the Boss", please know that I will also go for "Chips & Salsa With the Boss".   Stop in.  Talk...and remember it need not be just about school.

Want to know more about "Ted Lasso"?  Here is a "60 Minutes" story on the Ted Lasso phenomenon.