A Time to Rest and Reflect

Two years ago at this time, I was settled in my home community. The final winter concert was done, the staff gathering complete, all the children on their way to hot chocolate, baths, and bed. It was just after 9:00 pm when I wandered through the halls of my school — my huge, empty, beautiful school. 

It was the place where my skills in leadership grew, where I learned important lessons in humility, and where I became connected to brilliant educators, families, students, and support staff.

And I knew, as I looked at the reindeer with googly eyes glued on slightly askew, and the elf traps carefully set in corners, that it would be my last winter concert there. My new role as President — this new chapter in my journey — meant I would soon be packing up my gear and moving to a new city, a new opportunity, and a new set of learning moments.

I carried a mixture of emotions — excitement and nervousness, exhilaration and relief, worry and anticipation — but also a deep sadness that I would no longer be surrounded every day by the 400 beautiful people who had become part of my team. 

I find I am reliving that moment as I write this column, and as I begin my last winter in this role. Because while every leader’s story is different, the feeling is familiar. Leadership lives in these transitions — the ones we expect, and the ones we never see coming. My move from my small community opened up new experiences and connections over the past 18 months and – as that mixture of emotions again starts to stir – I know that the next page in my story is starting to be written.

As we close another year together, I will use this quiet space to rest and reflect on what has been completed and what is still ahead.

I hope that you can also take this time to look back on what you have carried in your role: 

The complex situations you navigated with care. 
The student needs you sustained with patience.
The staff you supported through long and demanding months. 
The families who trusted your steady presence. 

And all the joy and laughter along the way. 

Ask yourself: 

What brought me joy this year? 
Where did I grow? 
Who made a difference for me? 
How did I make a difference for others? 
What do I need to restore myself for the year ahead? 

December reminds us of a truth we often forget: 
Leaders deserve as much rest as they offer to others. 

For this winter break:

May you find rest that is deep. 
Connection that is nourishing. 
Quiet that restores your spirit. 

May you step into January not just ready, but renewed. 

Thank you for the extraordinary work you do, and for the care you offer to your communities, to your colleagues, and to one another. 

Take care, rest well, and stay connected. Onwards. 
Shannon