A few weeks ago, I was explaining to someone why I decided to plan the first Summit in March 2009, and why I decided not only do it again this year, but to expand it. I told this person that the Superstar Summit was something exciting to look forward to amidst all of the punitive sanctions of NCLB. They asked me, “It isn’t a lot of extra work plan a big event like this in addition to your regular job?”
I considered this question. I realized that what we define as “work” is determined by our values, beliefs and passions. I do not consider this Summit “work”. I find it inspiring to be able to design a valuable, collaborative opportunity for Title 1 leaders from all around the state. I am inspired because what does or does not happen for our students matters to me. Establishing supportive professional networks, so that all of us can learn and share ideas, matters to me.
Why does it matter? I am motherless daughter. There have been many times when my “motherlessness” made me feel like I didn’t quite fit in. There have been hard days where I really wanted to call my mom to talk things out and get her advice. But I couldn’t. As a result of this, I became fairly tough and stubborn, but I also learned the importance of applying this to my professional life. I know that everyone needs a supportive network where they can share ideas and challenges. Everyone needs to know that they fit in somewhere. These types of opportunities help us to grow professionally and to increase the caliber of our work. The end result is beneficial to our students.
No, I don’t agree with all of the components of NCLB. But it is what it is until the law is changed. I am committed to 100% compliance, fueled by innovation and collaboration. NCLB is not an easy mandate. But my life experience has taught me that if we collaborate we can accomplish amazing things.
