Recently, I was having a conversation with an educator that stayed with me long after we finished talking. It was grounded in her being so passionate about her work, in caring so deeply, but she was unsure if her efforts were being seen. By others. She was expressing that in some spaces her work feels …
This post is a special collaboration between Lauren Kaufman and Dr. Sonia Matthew—two educators reflecting on their parallel journeys, defining moments, and the lessons that continue to shape their work as leaders in education. I'm about to begin my 20th year in education.Yes, 20 years. As I was driving to work the other day, the …
“It’s easy for people to be critics or cheerleaders. It’s harder to get them to be coaches. A critic sees your weaknesses and attacks your worst self. A cheerleader sees your strengths and celebrates your best self. A coach sees your potential and helps you become a better version of yourself.”– Adam Grant, Hidden Potential …
There is great work happening in our schools. Learning and leading isn’t a linear process. Our learning ecosystems are hubs, active spaces where the magic of growth, failure, and reflection unfolds daily. And while there’s so much goodness living within those spaces, do you know what’s even better? The people. The goodness of people is …
Rolling Up Your Sleeves - Series Part 1 “How you walk into a room matters,” is a sentiment Dr. Mary Hemphill shared at this week’s FETC conference. As I listened to her powerful words, I was reminded that leadership isn't just about presence, it’s about intention. Whether you’re leading a team, coaching a colleague, or …
Every person deserves the opportunity to thrive in the learning ecosystems designed to meet their needs every day. These spaces should inspire and empower, creating opportunities for growth for every learner. But thriving isn’t just about the systems we design—it’s about the mindset we bring. What does it truly mean to thrive in our learning …
Every week, I read George Couros’ blog posts. Although all of George's thoughts and insights draw me in and encourage me to reflect on my own learning and growth, this particular one titled, “Creating a Podcast with NotebookLM; What are the negatives and positives of that process?” piqued my interest in a different way. Are …
Continue reading From Blog to Podcast: Turning Reflection into a Conversation with AI
"Decide what you want to be, and then do that work." - Ryan Holiday After nearly two decades in education, amidst the hustle and bustle of learning, teaching, being active in student life, attending and facilitating meetings and professional learning sessions, constant reading, relentless podcast listening, reflective writing, and creating systems and structures to help …
The other day, I was drawn to the only blurry photo I have from my first year of teaching in 2006. The photo survived Hurricane Sandy in 2012 when my house flooded. I remember clearly shaking the water off the photo and setting it out to dry by the window. The picture shows me perched …
“Connection is why we’re here. It’s what gives purpose and meaning in our lives.” Brené Brown said in her Ted Talk “The Power of Vulnerability.” I have listened to this same Ted Talk multiple times. If you haven’t yet experienced it, I genuinely recommend taking some time to do so. After you listen, you may …
Empower. Collaborate. Connect. 