Viewpoint

Has the education world changed over the last seven months? Unless you have been living in a cave for the last seven months, you know it has changed. I am proud of the work school administrators have done over that time and the “whatever it takes” attitude you have adopted. You have been challenged from every side including science, politics, parents, students, community, staff, etc., and you have not only survived but thrived in order to provide opportunities for your kids.

John Maxwell is one of my favorite leadership writers. I often think about his work and how you control your actions during times of change. One of his quotes is, “The pessimist complains about the wind. The optimist expects it to change. The leader adjusts the sails.” I think your actions and thoughts over the last seven months paint a very clear picture which role you may be in. I am proud to say that we have a state full of leaders in Arkansas. I have seen you adjust your sails sometimes on a daily basis. The boats may take on a little water and the wind will certainly change, but you navigate those waters and continue to move forward. Not only are we moving forward, but we are making positive changes and learning to do things in a different manner. If anyone thinks education will go back to the way we were seven months ago, they need to rethink their position. When you load up in your boat and the wind blows you across the seas, the scenery will look different. That is exactly where we are going.

As we head across the uncertain waters, we will have to adjust our sails again, and again. But that is what leaders do. I will leave you with this: Bail out the water in your boat, adjust your sails, and hang on to a better educational system for all kids.

By the way, don’t forget to take care of yourself and your family during these times. As I have mentioned to you before, burning the candle at both ends isn’t good. Give yourself permission to go home and leave the phone on silent and not answer every email, text, etc. Take care!