March 21, 2025

1:00 PM

Well, it’s officially here. The dismantling of the United States Department of Education (USDOE) has formally begun. 

And it couldn’t have come at a worse time because, as those in education know, it’s a testing season. Everyone is burnt out. We are in full test-prep mode from February to April, ensuring our students are prepared to regurgitate the information we worked so hard to teach them from August to January. But, with high stress comes high reward, right? At least, that’s what we have been told to keep us going. 

Then we end the school year with teacher appreciation week; a few gifts, dinners, and gift cards are always a plus, and we await the results to be given to us in five monumental categories: Advanced, Mastery, Basic, Approaching Basic, and the dreaded Unsatisfactory. But this is commonplace for many of us; we throw on our capes and pump the kids up with rallies, school dances, and spirit week before we dive in and allow a single test to determine their future and, in some cases, ours. But what happens when we couple our normal with unchartered territory? The dismantling of the USDOE.   

Last week, I went to facilitate PLCs at one of my partner schools, which I usually do on Tuesdays. And I expected it to be happy as usual- after all, we had just returned from Mardi Gras break, one of the happiest times of the year in South Louisiana. This time, however, there was such a heaviness in the room that I could not shake or ignore. As a pretty skilled Facilitator, I am the Queen of pivoting. So, I changed the opening question for our restorative circle to, "What do you need in this moment to be successful?” and it opened the floodgates of their hearts.

“Support from Admin,” “Classroom management strategies,” “Tech support,” “Certification help,” “Understanding from Admin,” “PAPER!”—With firm conviction, concise responses, and even tears. I paused the session, encouraged everyone to sit in a circle, and facilitated a restorative circle with their administrative team present. Because once teachers are willing to shout their concerns to the mountain top in front of their administrative team, they reach their breaking point.  

We gathered in a circle, and the Administrative team listened to their responses without defense. They reaffirmed that their concerns were valid and heard and that steps would be taken to reconcile them. We ended the session by having them write down their frustrations on chart paper and place them on the wall of the PLC room. We agreed that as people felt their concerns had been addressed, we would place a checkmark beside them so that all could see the progress made. 

The release was necessary. The restorative session was necessary. The pause was necessary. 

As leaders, we often operate on a checklist of tasks, and relationships are at the very bottom of that list. However, I am here to tell you in a very Southern Belle, straightforward way: If you do not have relationships with your staff, you will NOT survive this next season in education! 

Educators have been navigating limited resources, staff shortages, oversized classrooms, and increased workloads for decades. Couple that with the ramifications of dismantling the USDOE, and you will find that this is not a cross many are not willing to bear anymore. Our most vulnerable students and families will feel the brunt of this executive order. The relationship with those who will spend most of their time with these families must be cultivated to build trust and, in some cases, repair it. 

As you plan for next school year and are looking at your summer schedule, intent to return forms and budgetary items, I urge you pause and be intentional with your staff. Get to know them, ask about their families, plan a retreat off campus at the local library for free (the River City location is my absolute favorite!), get a sponsor to cater an off-campus lunch (I can help you find one), and ask them the same question I did, “What do you need at this moment to be successful?” Listen to their heart without defenses and your ego. 

The time has come for us to desperately tap into our reason for being in education. That reason must be deeper than a paycheck and a great retirement plan. Our children and their families need champions who will value their education and commit to providing a high-quality learning experience at a time when it is okay not to do so. 

Embrace the pause, plan for the future, and prioritize your relationships—they are your only saving grace.  

August 7, 2024

9:00 AM 

Twas’ the night before school started, and all through the house, every kid was still up because they had been playing Fortnite until sunrise all summer, and their sleeping patterns were jacked!

Ok, that didn’t rhyme, but how many of us can relate?

Back to school is an exciting time for some but dreaded by others as children, parents, teachers, and school leaders prepare to return to everyday routines.

I have the privilege of sharing the joy of being a parent, educator, school board member, consultant, and advocate. These hats give me a unique perspective, and as we approach this annual milestone, I want to share a few Do’s and Don’ts: Parent Edition. 

Now, before you get upset and instantly offended, know that I am sharing my thoughts based on my observations over the years. 

Back to School Do's & Dont's: 

For Parents

Do- Read the student handbook, discipline matrix, step ladder, and other school rules and procedures.

Don’t- Be the parent who teaches your child to bend the rules; it creates a culture of disrespect. You may feel the “no cell phone” policy is usurped, but there is a reason for each rule. If you need clarity on a rule or procedure, sit down with your school disciplinarian or leader.

Do- Join the PTO and/or other parent organizations to stay involved in your child’s school --Ask me about Parent Corps!

Don’t- Run the PTO like the minivan mafia to pressure teachers, administrators, and students into bending to your will.

Do- Check your child’s folder daily, or at least every other day, for updates, important information, and homework.

Don’t- Contact the school shouting about a program you missed when they sent home the flyer two weeks prior. An elementary teacher has about 25 children to manage, and middle and high school teachers have roughly 100 students. Now, think about them running behind every parent. It’s impossible.

Do- Advocate for your child’s education and opportunities for success

 . 

Don’t- Only come to the school fussing at teachers and leaders when your child is upset. There are always three sides to every story; don’t embarrass yourself- ask questions.

Do- Follow the chain of command when there is a problem at the school or you need clarification.

Don’t- Get on social media blasting the school when you have not spoken with anyone and allowed them an opportunity to resolve it. No, seriously, stop doing that to schools. It sheds a sometimes unnecessary negative light.

Do- Send school supplies labeled as directed.

Don’t- Write on each crayon and marker- your child may need a spare. Petty does not have a place in schools; we are trying to learn.

Do- Attend school events to let your child, teachers, and administrators know you are an involved parent.

Don’t- Show up to school in pajamas, bonnets, sagging pants, offensive clothing, wreaking of marij…. you get the point. The school is a place of business; respect it as such. Plus, your kids are always embarrassed and apologize to the adults on your behalf; they should never have to do that. At least follow my lead, pretend you just finished a workout, and come in athleisure wear if casual attire is too much.

Now, y’all have a great year, and save the picture of this list to refer back to when things get shaky!