President's Perspective

Dr. Stephanie Nehus

Grateful, Thankful, Blessed

November is all about thanksgiving. It is a time of reflection on our blessings and a time to be grateful. I am so thankful for this organization and all of the amazing colleagues I get to work alongside and learn from as we all work to provide the best opportunities for our students across the state. I am beyond grateful for my family and friends who support me and love me when I have given my all to the day and they get the rest of me (I know you all understand what I mean). For this month’s article, I am going to share two items that I hope will be reminders for us all as we count our blessings.

First, self-care is a necessity! Do not ever feel guilty for taking some time for yourself. In the book 180 Days of Self-Care for Busy Educators by Tina H. Boogren, she focuses week nine on “Mindfulness” (p. 38, Solution Tree - 2020). The techniques shared in the book are mindful walking, guided meditation, deep breathing, silence, and yoga. Amazingly enough, in my latest Apple Watch update, I now have a mindfulness option. Each morning, I take a minute to reflect on a given prompt and then I take a minute to breathe. Not surprising, just this week I have noticed a difference in how my mindset has shifted as I begin my day. Please focus on your self-care!

The second reminder is shown in the graphic below. I would dare say that the title could state “Phases of Educators Attitudes Throughout the School Year.” October is the disillusionment phase. We, as leaders, must remember this time of year is challenging for our teachers. I have always tried to encourage our employees by highlighting the lights ahead - Thanksgiving Break and Christmas Break. Rejuvenation, Reflection, and Anticipation are coming. Affirmations, celebrations, and authentic conversations should be our focus right now.

In closing, I wish each of you a Happy Thanksgiving! I am truly grateful, thankful, and blessed to serve this organization and my school district. I do not take those blessings lightly. I will be relaxing and resting the week of Thanksgiving as we prepare to finish out the first semester. Time sure does fly when you’re having fun and love what you do!