President’s
Perspective
Running On Empty
I am going to say something up front. This article is for me. The following Debbie Atkinson words I need to hear, and you may, too. The past year has been hard both AAEA Board President professionally and personally. As I reflect, I am amazed at the innate divine ability each person has which enables us to persevere and continue with our mission. No matter how hard things seem, we emerge day after day and start afresh to care for students and teachers. How fascinating is it to consider we are created with rechargeable batteries? Scripture reminds us God’s mercies are new every morning. (Lamentations 3:22-23) This article isn’t about recharging your body with proper diet, exercise, and sleep, although all are certainly needed to refresh our bodies. The message: find intentional ways to recharge your batteries. I know we do not get the summer “off,” but we have more time to focus on ourselves. How will you recharge your batteries? My goal is to take time and recharge myself both personally and professionally. During the school year, I usually don’t spend much time reading. A summer goal is to carve time into my day and read for professional, personal, and spiritual growth. Are there books you want to dive into but haven’t made the time? If so, make reading a priority for yourself. Summer will allow for face-to-face professional development. The knowledge gained will be helpful, but I look forward to renewing my professional relationships. I look forward to seeing you at the AAEA Summer Conference on July 26th and 27th. The schedule will look different than in years past, but it will be a beneficial time of growth and recharge! A necessity to recharging batteries requires time away from the school building. Whether you travel far and wide or to the tranquility of a local creek, take time away for yourself. My summer plans include camping trips, road trips searching for junk stores, and side-by-side rides. Plan an adventure, or two, for yourself and recharge your battery. More importantly, I plan to spend intentional time with family and friends. Personal interaction, which was once taken for granted, helps inspire and renew our minds. Make it a priority to recharge with those you hold close. As the school year comes to a close, I am thankful. I am thankful for the resilience of Arkansas educators, my time as your AAEA President, my health, and this being my last article to write. I am extra thankful for summer break and rechargeable batteries. Have a great summer!
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