Every day in schools, our relationships are built one conversation at a time. You know these moments well: the hallway hellos, the quick “Do you have a minute?” at the door, the whispered check-in with a student after class, the after-school email to a parent you want to reassure. When you look closely, these aren’t …
Continue reading The Space Between What We Say and What We Do
Every season of life brings something new to grow. Some arrive with fresh energy and opportunity, others ask us to slow down and reflect, and most are a blend of both. In every season, we learn, stretch, and discover new parts of ourselves. In education, this cycle is always present. We celebrate milestones, navigate obstacles, …
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 …
There’s a phrase I’ve been carrying with me lately: You’re already on your way. Sometimes we just need some open space, a word, a gesture, or a reflection from the past to recognize it. This week, I stopped by a classroom and chatted with two co-teachers. One of them shared that she felt sad she …
“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 …
This week felt like a whirlwind. Stepping into the days after a winter holiday break, my time was filled with important things - observations, professional learning days, community events, and the countless day-to-day interactions that bring both celebrations and some challenges. On top of that, my family obligations had me racing from one place to …
Have you ever felt like you were holding yourself back, dimming your light just to fit in or play it safe? In her book Worthy, Jamie Kern Lima shares, “I believe one of the most prevalent forms of cancel culture is one that no one talks about. It’s us canceling ourselves before we even try” …
Empower. Collaborate. Connect. 