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Month: October 2015

We Should Be Thanking You…..

This past week was Principal Appreciation Week culminating with Principal Appreciation Day yesterday, Friday October 23rd. Although, it is always nice to be recognized, this day always brings with it for me a reflection on how thankful I am to work with all of the staff, students, and families at Kipling school.

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Yesterday, both Mrs. Sutic and myself were moved by all the well wishes that flowed in through videos, emails, and cards from students, staff, and parents alike. However, with every “thank you” that came in I kept thinking to myself that it should be me who is thanking you.

I love what I do. I know that I am lucky to be able to say that. I also loved being a teacher, and although I am not in the classroom any longer, do not consider that a role that I have abandoned. As a principal I still consider myself a teacher every day. I still think like a teacher and I approach situations like a teacher – always wondering what can we learn from any given situation or moment.

Being an elementary school principal is the greatest job in the world though. My friend and colleague, Kathleen Miller, who retired last year as principal of Mechanics Grove Elementary in Mundelein, IL wrote this to me in an email late last spring.

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Kathleen is right. There is nothing like being an elementary school principal. Let me share one small example of how this is true.

The Wiggly Tooth
I think I have seen more loose teeth than most dentists. My morning walk down the kindergarten and first grade hallway usually ends up with me approached by no less than 5 kids wanting to show me their new loose tooth. Now a loose tooth may not seem like a big deal to an adult, after all every kid will lose all 20 of them at some time, but to a 5 or 6 year old it is monumental. Just think about all that it represents for them. First, it is a proud sign that they are growing and getting older. They love for you to know this. Secondly, it is a badge of courage that they wear. Kids also want to show you how brave they can be. They aren’t scared at all. Just ask a 5 year old if their loose tooth hurts and before you can finish your sentence you will be cut off with a “nope” that leaves no question. They also love to demonstrate the looseness and bravery for you by wiggling the tooth and saying “see”.

I always try to have a good response to this. Something along the lines of “oh wow”, “that’s great”, or “I am so proud of you.” I act like it is the coolest thing that I have ever seen, ask them a few questions, and make them feel like they are the only people that have ever shown me a loose tooth. After the announcement, the demonstration, and my excited response, the child turns around with a big smile and continues unpacking their backpack and getting ready for the day. Their job is done. They have demonstrated their growth and learning, shown how brave they are, and been validated by someone listening and taking interest. I never take for granted how special it is and what a privilege it is that I am one of the people they want to share this with.

As an elementary school principal I get to be part of a hundred “wiggly tooth moments” a day. Whether it is a student showing me something new they learned, a new problem they solved, or helping students to settle disputes and differences, every day is filled with watching the amazing power of learning and growth.

My friend Kathleen said it best – There is nothing like being the principal of an elementary school! We have the opportunity to see children grow and change before our eyes. I know I speak for Mrs. Sutic as well when I say thank you Kipling staff, parents, and most importantly students for allowing us to do that every day.

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