"Moving Beyond Labels"

I recently learned about Katie Martin's blog and as I read it, I couldn't help but make connections with how we are preparing our students to thrive through our mission, "Every Student, Every Day, A Succes"!

I encourage you to read this week's blog (it's short but inspiring). The essence of her message is to get to know your students' story.  She describes four key actions to consider:  1) check your assumptions, 2) ask questions, 3) believe in them and 4) meet them where they are. Although the blog focuses on students, I believe this also applies to how we interact with each other.  


I made a connection to Katie's blog as I was reflecting on our Data Rounds that Dr. Grover, Dr. Doll and I conducted with principals the past couple of weeks.   Themes about the intentional effort to get to know our students, beyond their achievement scores, emerged. We heard so many stories of how teachers, social workers, paraprofessionals, counselors, instructional coaches, SECL coaches, specialists, custodians, food service staff, secretaries, the FIT team, (and community partners) are making a difference for students!  Increased attendance, improved behaviors, after school connections, celebrations of growth, and engaged parents!

The research states that our teachers are the number 1 factor in impacting student achievement-but they can't do it alone! It takes all of us! Stay true to your instructional vision as it is the foundation for equity and access in the classroom and monitored across your school.  This is a big lever.

Principals were honest and clear in Data Rounds about what supports are needed to accomplish the instructional vision established in their buildings.  This is so appreciated. We know we can't do it all, but we can be strategic and prioritize, consider innovative options and problem-solve to get to the intended outcomes.  Continue to engage in solution-focused conversations and know you have permission to be creative and innovative. We need to continue to team up and support each other in this effort!

In closing, I thank you for your diligent and relentless actions to our mission and encourage you to keep on, keeping on for our students!  "Seeing is Believing!!" Tweet out about our student successes, their stories, and your impact!