The more things change, the more they stay the same.

During my most recent job interview, one on the interviewers asked me, “What have you done to prepare for this job?”  My answer was that everything I have done throughout my career, whether it be in the classroom, coaching teams, putting on musicals, sponsoring student groups such as student council or the International travel club, Counselling, students, teacher leading, hanging out with colleagues, doing my job as a Vice Principal, as well as all the stuff I do in my personal life (specifically physical activity) has prepared me for the job.  I didn’t get the job,  (maybe it was the wrong answer, as of course it wasn’t that they didn’t love me!) however, that sentiment still rings true for this position and specifically for this start up week.  That is true for each of us.  Often, we are not sure where our jobs will lead us, but all experiences (the good ones, the challenging ones, and the ugly ones) are valuable as we land.Being thrown into an entirely new culture, and then starting up a school year, has demanded the making of quick, intelligent decisions, focused on what is in the best interest of student learning and achievement.  It also demands clarity so the staff can support the direction of the school.  All in the midst of some language barriers, and all while many of us are still navigating the nuances of the school departments.There are two “sides” to the school here.  We have the BC Offshore School, as well as the “Chinese side”.  Both teams work together, however some students wish to graduate with only the Chinese High School diploma, and some wish to graduate with both the Chinese as well as the BC Diploma.  Figuring all of that out is no easy task.Many students arrive at the school on the first day wishing to get into the school.  This is an ongoing process, and it will continue well into the end of September.  Already we have hired a new Kindergarten teacher, as that group is so large.  So, there is “real time planning” happening. It’s also nice to be in a growing school.So, the week has been exciting, busy, wonderful and enriching.  And we finished it all off with a wonderful celebratory dinner on Friday night for all of the International teachers.  And now, the planning and work continues…onwards we go…