The Compelled Tribe

"If you don't set goals, you can't regret not reaching them."  Yogi Berra

"The only goal you can't accomplish is the one you don't go after." Vilis Ozols

One of the goals at the top of my bucket list is to write a book.  Yet, for years I did no writing at all.  I loved teaching writing and would model writing for my students but I didn't write for myself.  When Terry suggested we write a blog, I was intrigued and reluctant.  What did I have to say?  

Writing a blog post is like standing at the edge of a cliff and yelling out into the abyss.  Sometimes things echo but more often you wonder if anyone heard you at all.  So imagine my surprise when my friend and colleague, Jon Wennstrom, invited me to join The Compelled Tribe.  The Compelled Tribe is a blogging group of educators who support each other to take a deeper look at our craft, provide opportunities for reflection and peer editing, and support one another in improving our work as administrators.  

Many principals ask why I spend time on writing a blog post each week.  For me, it started as a platform for sharing information with staff and has become an avenue to reflect, inspire, connect, and grow as writer and educator.  Every week, I am compelled to write something of substance.  Sharing personal stories has allowed me to connect with many of you and convey my values, beliefs, and mission in a, hopefully, more engaging way.  

Who is your tribe?  What is a goal you want to achieve?  Can I help you in achieving it?  As Dr. Seuss so eloquently said, " You're off to great places.  Today is your day!  Your mountain is waiting!  So get on your way!"

Video:

I watched this powerful TED talk from Shonda Rhimes, the talented titan behind shows such as Grey's Anatomy, Scandal, and How to Get Away With Murder this weekend.  Her powerful message of how saying yes to everything, led her to less work and more play, and ultimately gave her her life back is an excellent reminder for all of us.  

Big Rocks:

Thank to you Robin for organizing a very successful Family Game Night with Learning Gizmos!  We were very grateful to everyone who stayed to help and our families had a wonderful time.  

Thank you to Linda for leading our staff meeting on Leadership Day on Tuesday.  Angie has also done a wonderful job creating some letters to go home to parents.  We appreciate all of your thoughts as we envision a different leadership event this year.  

We have completed nine classrooms of Student Perception Surveys.  We will continue this week.  Our deadline is March 23.

Cooper wants to send big hugs to Judy Bowling and the Bowling family as they mourn the passing of Judy's father in law.  

Calendar for the Week of March 14, 2016:

Monday: 8:00-11:00 Principal PD at Riley (Sarah)

               11:15 Student Lighthouse

               1:00-4:00 i-Ready Coaches Training (Robin, Sandy, Shawn)

               12:00-3:00 Principal PD at Riley (Kristi)

                Emerson Transition Meetings

Tuesday: 8:00-3:00 QAR Visit Grant (Sarah)

               6:30 PTA

Wednesday: Emerson Transition Meetings

                     8:00 IST

                     11:15 PTA Leaders

Thursday: 8:00 Staff Meeting in the Makerspace

                 1:00-4:30 Elementary Principals' Meeting

                  St. Patrick's Day Luncheon

Friday: 8:00-11:00 Curriculum Advisory (Sarah)

            8:15 Title I (Kristi)