Throughout your careers, I hope you discover that teaching and leading are genuine callings. They’re not just tasks; they provide an opportunity to lead for legacy and shape stories for yourself and others. You  acknowledge that these roles can be exceptionally challenging, emotionally draining, and incredibly exhausting. You also know that teaching is the most gratifying job you’ll find as your legacy is etched in the hearts and minds of those you serve. 

As a leader without a classroom to call her own, I never underestimate the significance of stepping into classrooms, observing the genuine beauty of learning and teaching as it unfolds. The exchange of aha moments and insights among learners is truly captivating. Each time I leave these learning spaces, I carry with me the conviction that I’ve grown as an educator, continually enriched by the learning experiences I get to witness.

The intriguing part of my role lies in observing the entire spectrum of learners, from the youngest in kindergarten to our oldest students. Although they stand at the culmination of their journey in our schools, they are, in essence, just starting to delve into new learning experiences—living, learning, and leading for legacy in unfamiliar spaces, surrounded by new people and places.

This week, I had the privilege of observing a 12th-grade English class with a seasoned teacher set to retire this year. As I sat within the circle of the Socratic Seminar, absorbing the students’ insightful perspectives, my mind raced on how to approach the post-observation conversation with a veteran educator boasting 40 years of leading for legacy. Yes, you read that correctly—40 years. Instead of contemplating what I could offer him, I focused on harnessing the wealth of experience he could provide to further enrich my journey of leading for legacy.

After leaving the classroom, I promptly opened my Voxer walkie talkie app on my phone, and left a voice note offering immediate feedback on his students. I commended his well established culture centered around embracing diverse perspectives, empathy and inclusivity. It led me to the decision that our post-observation dialogue wouldn’t focus solely on the lesson itself but would serve as a reflective exploration of how he has consistently led for legacy throughout his career.

Upon entering the teacher’s classroom the next day, I began with, “Mr. R., although I could discuss the wonderful student-facilitated lesson I observed yesterday, my main focus is on the legacy you’ve forged in your career. Having your last formal observation was an honor. I am going to ask you questions that will help me become a better learner and leader.” I’ll never forget what his face looked like as he stared back at me. Somewhat shocked, he responded, Lauren, thank you for giving me the opportunity to do that. I initiated the conversation with five pivotal questions:

1. How do you want your students to remember you?

2. What are your hopes for the English department when you leave?

3. Who are the mentors that shaped your educational journey?

4. What guidance do you have for new teachers?

5. What advice can you offer me?

Seated with Mr. R, I absorbed his words of wisdom with deep attentiveness. While I won’t disclose every detail he shared to honor the confidentiality of the teachers I serve, I can highlight his emphasis on the significance of student connections, the preservation of poetry, and the necessity for teachers to uphold high expectations, as learners inevitably rise to the occasion. 

Then, he responded to my last question. “Lauren, I can confidently speak for the department when I say that everyone values your attentive listening and your advocacy for students and teachers.” As tears welled in my eyes, I realized how much I needed to hear those words from such a respected teacher this week. It’s sometimes challenging to discern the impact one is making. “Thank you. Your words mean more to me than I can express.” In those moments, I recognized that a veteran teacher was not only preserving his own legacy but also aiding me in shaping more of my own.

You possess the remarkable ability to provide individuals with the space to articulate and weave their legacies through stories. Your daily actions exemplify leadership for legacy. Keep actively seeking and crafting those defining moments that contribute to the legacy you’re building. Another impactful story is eagerly waiting for you to shape and share. 

Actionable Ideas to Implement Tomorrow Through the 4 “Es”

Engage: Cultivate a storytelling culture to foster team connection. Regular conversations, sharing achievements and challenges build camaraderie and understanding.

Empower: Ask meaningful questions about personal goals and passions. Uncover strengths and aspirations, building trust and enhancing collaboration.

Elevate: Elevate communication with reflective listening. Respond with, “I am hearing you say,” paraphrasing key points to ensure understanding and validate perspectives.

Extend: Extend impactful conversations by acknowledging the person. After a discussion, reflect on insights gained and lessons learned, ensuring the exchange contributes to personal and professional growth.