Living Your Leadership Legacy

A very special thanks to Lauren Kaufman and Meghan Lawson for their collaboration in composing this blog post!

The frame for this piece is collaborative in nature. You are invited to engage in conversation on cultivating your legacy for leadership. Imagine this post as an interactive conversation with three thought partners. It may read more like loosely connected haiku poems than a deep dive piece. We are grateful to collectively compose this piece amongst the three of us. Most importantly, we value being a part of your leadership journey and look forward to the legacy you are cultivating. 

Living Your Leadership Legacy

Leadership is a choice. It rests on the shoulders of influence and inspiration, not compliance and control. Living a leadership legacy means recognizing the greatness that lives inside others and giving credit where it’s due. It’s about inspiring others to cultivate confidence in themselves so they can breathe life into ideas that will awaken their soul. -Lauren

Leadership isn’t a mere position; it’s a profound impact that transcends titles and authority. Within the structured confines of education, it’s easy to fall into the trap of hierarchical thinking, where leadership is mistakenly equated with power. True leadership is about something far more profound – it’s about creating a legacy of impact for others. –Sean

Leadership isn’t about being important. It’s about showing others how important and capable they are. Many people think of leadership as being first and in front. But living a leadership legacy means that we are willing to go first with what matters most. Being human. Being vulnerable. The rest of it is really cultivating the conditions and creating the systems needed to make the work well, work. And in a way that supports the humanity, learning, and contributions of all. – Meghan

Leadership is harnessing the gifts that are manifesting within. It’s letting others recognize their potential by planting seeds that they can nurture and grow. Leadership is a privilege that empowers others and unlocks potential. In a recent episode of the How To Academy Podcast, best-selling author David Brooks shared, “The kind of attention you cast on the world determines your way of being in the world.” 

So, I ask, what kind of attention will you cast on the world to nurture and inspire those around you? 

How will you shape a leadership legacy that leaves a meaningful, lasting impact?” – Lauren

In my leadership journey, I’ve come to realize that the most effective leaders aren’t the ones who wield authority like a blunt instrument, but rather those who embrace collaboration as their guiding principle. These leaders understand that their true power lies not in their own capabilities, but in their ability to empower and uplift those around them. –Sean

Living a leadership legacy means that we don’t wait until we are perfect or the work is perfect to take action. If we continue to only invite people into our schools, our classrooms, our work, our planning and collaboration when we’ve deemed it to be perfect, then we’ve made this work something that only perfect people do. There are no perfect people and there is no one right way or perfect plan. There are simply people. The willing. And that is more than enough to make progress in schools, communities, and in this world. – Meghan

As I have navigated close to two decades in education, I have discovered that I am a natural observer of people. I take great interest in what others say, do, and act on. I look closely at the body language, reactions, and the responses of others. I try to understand others’ perspectives and have empathy for the hidden stories I cannot see. Let me be clear,  I’m not perfect. I have learned to embrace my mistakes as opportunities to learn and have the desire to improve for the benefit of those I serve. –Lauren

I’ve been fortunate to have crossed paths with such leaders – individuals who set aside their egos and fostered an environment where everyone could shine. They didn’t see themselves as the sole architects of success; instead, they recognized the inherent leadership potential in others and worked tirelessly to nurture it. –Sean

It’s the way we show up, treat others, and do the work that gives us real, lasting impact. Not our titles. – Meghan

Growing up, I was fortunate to have leaders exemplifying their legacies around me, with my Dad at the forefront. He is a highly respected educator known for prioritizing people. I still hear former students consistently express gratitude for his kindness and the lessons learned from him since he taught in my hometown, where I currently live. Although he didn’t hold a formal leadership title, his influence is undeniable. He inherited this ethos from his father, a community leader dedicated to serving others. Through the years, I’ve sought my Dad’s counsel, and his mantra resonates: “Salute the person, not the title. There is a leader living inside us all.” –Lauren

For me, the moment of clarity came when I was invited by my principal to participate in a schoolwide project. I was surprised that my principal invited me. I didn’t think of myself as a leader in my role as a classroom teacher. I remember being so uplifted and inspired by his invitation. As we gathered together, I looked around the room and I could see that it was a diverse group of individuals. We all came from different departments and levels of experience. The principal cleared his throat and shared such a compelling statement. His words, spoken with genuine belief in our collective potential, still resonate with me today: “You all possess a gift that I need you to share that’s going to help a lot of kids in our school.” In that simple yet profound statement, I saw the essence of true leadership – the ability to recognize and harness the strengths of others for the greater good. –Sean

In my seventh year of teaching, I could feel that I needed something different. I could just feel that I was restless and stagnating. I applied for a teaching job in a neighboring school district. I didn’t get it. When I didn’t get it, I thought, “Wow, now what?” We really have two choices in any situation. We can change where we are and if we can’t change where we are, we change ourselves in the situation. I spent the next year invested in showing up as the kind of person my classroom, my school, and my students needed but mostly, the kind of person I needed. At the end of that next school year, I accepted a job in that same school which had turned me down for a teaching position, but this time as an assistant principal. The most important work we do is the work we do on ourselves. Everything else is secondary. – Meghan

When reflecting on the people I have saluted throughout my life in any capacity, the common gifts they possess are their ability to lead through inspiration. They are people who were living their leadership legacy. I can still hear and see the leaders who didn’t limit my potential, instead, they fueled it. When I formally stepped into leadership, I think about those interactions that shaped the leader I am still becoming. So, as you lead and inspire others, how will you craft a legacy that salutes the person, not the title? –Lauren

Leadership is a calling, but it’s one that often goes unheard amidst the noise of self-doubt and missed opportunities. Yet, all it takes is a single invitation, a gesture of belief from someone who sees the untapped potential within us. As leaders, it’s our duty to extend that invitation, to create space for others to step into their own greatness. –Sean

In the dynamic realm of education, the true measure of leadership lies not in titles or accolades, but in the profound impact we have on the lives we touch and the futures we shape. The past pandemic has underscored the necessity for adaptive leadership that responds to the ever-changing landscape of our world. As we reflect on our roles, let us strive to leave behind a legacy defined by meaningful impact, one that empowers others rather than glorifies ourselves. Let us become the catalysts igniting the flames of leadership in those around us, guiding them towards realizing their full potential. Ultimately, genuine leadership transcends personal recognition; it resonates in the ripple effect of our actions, the lives we inspire, and the futures we shape. –Sean

“We’re all just walking each other home.” – Ram Dass

None of us is more important or more smart or more capable than all of us. And I love that about us. – Meghan

In collaboration with ERG (Education Resource Group), Sean Gaillard, Lauren Kaufman, and Meghan Lawson invite you to join the Living a Leadership Legacy Conference where we will explore the themes of empowerment, collaboration, nurturing potential and much more. Join us as we delve into strategies for leaving a meaningful impact and igniting the leadership legacy of others. See more details below! REGISTER HERE

Collaboration Moves

“Deliver a Masterpiece”

In the realm of music, Daniel Lanois stands as a legendary figure whose influence spans over four decades. While his name might not be immediately recognizable to all, his impact on the industry is profound. As a producer, Lanois has lent his talents to iconic albums by artists such as Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, Peter Gabriel, Emmylou Harris, and The Neville Brothers. Yet, perhaps his most celebrated collaboration was with the legendary band U2, co-producing landmark albums like “The Unforgettable Fire” and “The Joshua Tree.”

Recently, a friend shared a video interview of Lanois discussing the making of U2’s groundbreaking album, “Achtung Baby.” In the interview, Lanois exudes humility as he reflects on the creative process behind the album. His simple yet profound philosophy on his role as a producer struck a chord with me: “Listen, man, when I go in the studio, it’s head down, get the job done, be creative, support the house philosophy, obey the house rules, deliver a masterpiece, and get on with your life.”

Lanois’ words resonate far beyond the realm of music production. They speak to the essence of leadership—of guiding, supporting, and inspiring others to achieve greatness. Just as Lanois supported U2 in creating a masterpiece, leaders in education must foster an environment where every member of the community can contribute their unique gifts towards a shared vision of excellence.

True collaboration goes beyond mere lip service. It requires leaders to tune into the strengths of those they serve and to relentlessly invite everyone to share their gifts. This means moving beyond the superficialities of titles and status and embracing a genuine appreciation for the diverse talents within the organization. By doing this we help to nurture a culture abounding with a sense of belonging and psychological safety.

As leaders, we must cultivate a culture of collective efficacy—one where every individual feels valued and empowered to make a meaningful contribution. Just as Lanois stepped aside to let U2’s vision shine, leaders must remove barriers and facilitate the emergence of greatness within their teams. Lanois’ move was a true leadership move. He put his ego aside in service of supporting the band’s vision.

Authentic collaboration, grounded in a deep appreciation for the strengths of others, is the key to creating masterpieces in education. By shifting our mindset from mere task delegation to the intentional celebration of each individual’s gifts, we can elevate our schools and districts to new heights of excellence.

Let us heed the wisdom of Daniel Lanois and strive to deliver masterpieces in our own realms of leadership. Let us keep our heads down, focus on the work, but also hold them high to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of others. Together, we can create timeless works of art that positively impact the lives of students and educators for generations to come. Who knows? With dedication, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence, we may just produce our own “Achtung Baby.”

4 Leadership Moves for Nurturing Collaboration

1. Individual Strength Scouting Walks: Visit classrooms and learning spaces without an evaluative lens. Spend time in these spaces with the intention of finding strengths in the people you serve. Take note of these strengths and curate a list for future reference. It’s always important to leave a note of gratitude for that teacher and cite a specific strength you experienced being demonstrated.

2. Strength-Based Follow Up: Take a couple of minutes and invite conversation with that teacher. Share the specific strengths and gifts you witnessed. A conversation filled with warmth and support from the leader goes a long way in building psychological safety for others.

3. Team Strength Scouting Walks: What if the school leader inviting others to join in Strength Scouting Walks? You can really shift the mindset on classroom walkthroughs and instructional rounds by encouraging others to join you in finding strengths in action in the schoolhouse.

4. Strengths Curation: There are many tools out there to survey staff on their individual strengths. Using Gallup’s Strengths Finder or Patrick Lencioni’s The Six Types of Working Genuis are great resources to curate the strengths of everyone in the schoolhouse and district. School leaders can follow-up with team-based activities to curate the strengths of the entire faculty and have a resource for others to refer to when building efforts for collective efficacy.

You can view the interview with Daniel Lanois here:

Remember Your Purpose

In the grand tapestry of music history, there’s a chapter that resonates deeply with those of us seeking inspiration in our own journeys. It’s the story of The Beatles, that legendary band whose rise to stardom seemed like a fairytale, but whose beginnings were marked by struggle and rejection.

Before they were hailed as icons of Beatlemania, before their records flew off the shelves and stadiums echoed with the screams of adoring fans, The Beatles were just four lads trying to make their mark. They faced empty venues, disinterested audiences, and the harsh sting of rejection from record labels. Yet, amidst these challenges, they clung to a shared vision, a dream that propelled them forward despite the odds.

One particular anecdote from their early days shines brightly as a beacon of leadership and resilience. Picture this: John Lennon, the soulful voice and guiding force of the band, rallying his comrades with a simple call and response:

John: “Where are we going, fellas?”

The Band: “To the top, Johnny!”

John: “And where’s that, fellas?”

The Band: “To the toppermost of the poppermost!”

In those moments of doubt and adversity, Lennon embodied the essence of leadership – a potent blend of motivation, compassion, and unwavering vision. They shared what Eric Jensen aptly terms a “gaudy goal,” an audacious dream to transcend boundaries and become the very best.

Reflecting on this story, I’m reminded of my own journey as a leader. Like The Beatles, we all encounter setbacks and moments of uncertainty. It’s easy to lose sight of our purpose, to succumb to the weight of despair. Yet, in those dark moments, we must summon the courage to fix our gaze upon the horizon and press onward.

I recall a pivotal moment when a wise colleague shook me from my reverie of doubt. With a gentle yet firm reminder of my purpose, she urged me to lift my head high and embrace the mantle of leadership. It was a wake-up call I sorely needed, a beacon of light cutting through the fog of self-doubt.

This wise colleague was our school secretary. She gave me a very much needed quick wake-up call when I was facing a setback and I was wearing every bit of it on my sleeve. I was walking into her office with my head hanging low and looking like a poster child for The Blues. She simply told me:

“Remember your purpose. Fix your face and go be our principal.”

It was truly a stark moment, but it was the moment I needed. I had a responsibility to not only get out of my doldrums, but I had to remember that I had others relying upon me. It is totally acceptable to pause in the moment and be human. I also needed that verbal kick in the pants to get back into my core as a leader and remember why I started the gig there in the first place. Her words energized me, and I ended up having a better rest of the day.

Later that day, I made it a point to thank our school secretary. I shared my gratitude at her sincere honesty and comfort with calling her principal out in a good way. I really needed that. I shared and I asked her to never hesitate for calling me out again. She was modest in her acceptance of my thanks. I did ask that she continue to give me that motivating push if she ever caught me slipping into the leadership blues. She smiled and gladly acquiesced to my request. It’s important to express our gratitude but to also find trusted colleagues who will take the time to motivate and help us stay focused on our purpose.

Gratitude, too, plays a crucial role in our journey. We must acknowledge those who uplift us, who lend a helping hand when the path grows rocky. In expressing our thanks, we foster a culture of support and encouragement, one where each member plays a vital role in the collective pursuit of greatness.

Leadership, I’ve come to realize, extends far beyond titles and accolades. It resides in the depths of our being, in the unwavering commitment to empower and uplift those around us. It’s a journey of self-discovery, of embracing our humanity and vulnerability, even as we strive to inspire others to reach new heights.

So, as we navigate the winding road of leadership, let us remember the lessons of The Beatles – the power of shared vision, the resilience in the face of adversity, and the importance of staying true to our purpose. Together, let us soar to the toppermost of our own poppermost, igniting the flames of inspiration in every heart we touch.

Play the Mistakes

The great Jazz pianist and composer, Herbie Hancock, shares an oft-told tale about his tenure playing with Miles Davis. You were covered under a mantle of protection in his Miles’ band because he trusted you. This trust was forged in the ethos of the band. If you played a mistake during a gig, Miles would play your mistake as if it were meant to be all along. Somehow he would play the wrong notes in a way that impelled them to feel as they naturally belong in the song. Hancock shares that Miles felt a responsibility to find a place for the mistake in the scope of the song.

Click the video clip below to hear Herbie Hancock’s story:

I am on a constant quest for meaning and purpose in leadership. My wellspring of inspiration flows from the profound lessons enshrined in music. Whether orchestrating a band or leading an organization, we are certain to encounter mistakes stemming from those we guide. The pivotal question is: how do we react when a mistake occurs? Do we diligently cultivate an environment of psychological safety, fostering the resilience of our companions in the face of adversity? Within an organization, a relentless pursuit of perfection stifles, obstructs, and fuels burnout. Embracing the ethos of Miles Davis, acknowledging the absence of mistakes, engenders an environment teeming with creativity and emboldens risk-taking.

Playing the mistake requires that leaders are in tune with the gifts and strengths of the people they support. Simply put, know your people and value their strengths. Miles Davis knew his bandmates after dedicated time for rehearsal and live performance. He was also open to possibilities and knew that mistakes formed boundaries and inhibitions. Leaders must have this same mindset. Being open to the possibilities that mistakes foster can lead to dynamic new ideas. Most importantly, re-shifting the paradigm on mistakes empowers others

Next Moves for Dynamic Leadership Action:

1. Connect with your team on what constitutes a mistake in your action.

2. Create trust and establish how you will respond as a leader when a mistake occurs.

3. After a mistake occurs, debrief and share with the team how the mistake pivoted the team forward.

4. Use the mistake as an opportunity for growth.

Tuning into Possibilities: A Lesson in Leadership from The Beatles

As someone who proudly wears the badge of a “Beatles Encyclopedia,” my journey in music appreciation is a perpetual adventure. The joy I derive from delving into the world of music, particularly the legendary band that holds a special place in my heart, knows no bounds. If you were to step into my home office, you’d find it adorned with shelves filled to the brim with books dedicated to none other than “The Beatles.” I’ve devoured so many books over the years on this iconic band that I could probably recite passages from memory. (I’d likely be of little help in the book refuge depicted in Fahrenheit 451!)

Currently, my literary journey has led me to “The Lyrics” by Paul McCartney. Released just last year in hardcover, I couldn’t resist adding the paperback edition to my collection. This remarkable book sees McCartney opening up about the stories and personal anecdotes behind the songs that defined his tenure with The Beatles and his solo career. In the book’s introduction, McCartney shares an anecdote from the early days of The Beatles that, surprisingly, I had never encountered before.

Let me share a quick recap. Picture the scene: The Beatles, in the nascent stages of their career, find themselves on a wintry night journeying between gigs. Suddenly, their van skids on ice, careening off the road and down an embankment. Miraculously, no one is hurt, but they’re left stranded. Amidst the chaos, McCartney recalls a pivotal statement uttered by someone in the band: “Something will happen.” This simple phrase quickly became a rallying cry for The Beatles whenever faced with adversity or uncertainty. I try to envision when this statement would echo at various stages during The Beatles trajectory as a band. It is a tantalizing game to play in imagining when this line would be appropriate.

The profound simplicity of this statement struck a chord with me as I immersed myself in McCartney’s book. It served as a poignant reminder that even the idols we admire are, at their core, human. “Something will happen” encapsulates a resolute hope, reminding us that amidst seemingly insurmountable odds, the realm of possibility remains wide open.

Reflecting on this mantra, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to my own journey as a principal and school leader. In the face of daunting challenges, “Something will happen” embodies a steadfast belief in the power of resilience and perseverance. It speaks to the essence of our roles as leaders, tasked with navigating complex landscapes against all odds. We have to tune into possibilities on a daily basis. Additionally, we have to encourage others to tune into possibilities as we educate and empower the kids we serve.

Recently, our team encountered a situation demanding swift action and collaboration. In its aftermath, I found myself echoing a similar mantra to reassure my colleagues: “We responded. We were there for others.” I have echoed this statement many times as a leader to serve as a salve for others who support during a crisis. This instance brought to mind The Beatles and their mantra, reinforcing the notion that amidst uncertainty, hope prevails.

My mantra, “We responded,” shares the same essence and intention as The Beatles’ rallying cry. As leaders, it’s our responsibility to provide comfort and empowerment through compassionate words and actions. Whether serving as a soothing balm in times of crisis or bringing clarity to chaos, our words hold the power to inspire and uplift. Being intentional with our words is a necessary move as a leader. We are the navigators of our narrative and we must choose our words with care, compassion, and intention.

Stepping back and reflecting on our experiences is not just advisable; it’s imperative for effective leadership. Taking stock of our decisions and actions allows us to glean valuable insights and pave the way for growth. In the end, it’s the simple yet profound words—whether “Something will happen” or “We responded”—that ignite the spark of hope and resilience in those we lead.

Next Moves for Dynamic Leadership Action: Reflection on Communication

-Reflect: Find intentional time to reflect on the words you use as a leader to comfort or inspire during a crisis.

-Write: Jot down those words and statements you use. Reflect upon the meaning and intention in each of those words. Do they empower? Do they avoid judgement or placing blame?

-Share: Find a trusted thought partner and share words to gain feedback and growth.

-Connect: With people you serve and collaborate, take time as a group to discuss words used during a crisis. Establish kinship and understanding along with ensuring that meanings are understood.

Whether serving as a soothing balm in times of crisis or bringing clarity to chaos, our words hold the power to inspire and uplift. Being intentional with our words is a necessary move as a leader. We are the navigators of our narrative and we must choose our words with care, compassion, and intention.

Leading with Harmony: Fostering Belonging Through Collaboration

This past weekend, I found myself engaged in a collaborative conversation with two friends. As we explored ideas and shared perspectives, there was an undeniable sense of belonging in the air. It felt like we were in tune with each other’s strengths, creating a harmonious space that fueled our creativity. This experience made me reflect on the significance of sustaining a sense of belonging, especially for leaders, and how tapping into the strengths and gifts of others is a powerful way to achieve this.

In the realm of leadership, one trait stands out as essential: the ability to foster a sense of belonging. A leader who understands the importance of creating an environment where every individual feels valued, appreciated, and empowered is destined to cultivate a thriving community. One effective strategy for achieving this is to recognize and tap into the strengths and gifts of those around you, allowing them the space to shine.

A captivating example of this leadership approach can be found in the world of jazz music, a genre built on collaboration and improvisation. Consider the iconic rendition of “My Favorite Things” by John Coltrane and his quartet. In this performance, Coltrane, a legendary saxophonist, showcased a profound understanding of fostering belonging by stepping away from the spotlight.

As the melody unfolded, Coltrane gracefully stepped back, creating a space for his pianist and collaborator, McCoy Tyner, to take center stage. Tyner, known for his brilliant and innovative piano playing, seized the opportunity to stretch out and deliver a transcendent solo. Coltrane’s decision to give Tyner the spotlight not only highlighted Tyner’s strengths but also contributed to the overall beauty of the performance. It was a harmonious collaboration that showcased the power of recognizing and celebrating the unique talents within a team.

This jazz analogy holds valuable lessons for leaders in any setting, including the schoolhouse. A leader must possess an acute awareness of the people they serve and a deep understanding of the strengths that each individual brings to the table. By creating a culture that allows these strengths to thrive, leaders can foster a sense of belonging that goes beyond mere inclusion.

In the school environment, leaders must recognize and celebrate the diverse talents of teachers, students, and staff. Just as Coltrane allowed Tyner’s brilliance to shine in their musical collaboration, leaders should provide opportunities for educators to showcase their strengths in the classroom, whether it be through innovative teaching methods, mentorship programs, or collaborative projects.

Moreover, leaders should be attuned to the needs of the school community and actively seek out opportunities for collaboration. By tapping into the collective strengths of the team, leaders can create a culture of belonging where everyone feels heard, valued, and empowered to contribute to the success of the school.

In conclusion, sustaining a sense of belonging is a crucial aspect of effective leadership. Leaders who understand the importance of recognizing and tapping into the strengths and gifts of others can create a harmonious and thriving community. The example of John Coltrane stepping back to let McCoy Tyner shine serves as a powerful illustration of how leaders can foster a culture where the strengths of every individual are celebrated. As we navigate the complex world of leadership, let us strive to lead with harmony, creating spaces where everyone’s strengths can contribute to the beautiful melody of success.

Check out John Coltrane’s “My Favorite Things” featuring that transcendent piano solo by McCoy Tyner

In the Fan Club

Here’s Episode 20 of “The Principal Liner Notes Podcast.”

It is entitled “In the Fan Club.” I explore how the recent release of the “Yesterday” movie connects to my pride in being a Beatles Fan. I also explore connections from the film to our noble profession as educators.

https://anchor.fm/sean-gaillard/episodes/In-the-Fan-Club-e4fp3t/a-ahua79

 

Embrace the Crossroads

Here’s the latest episode of “The Principal Liner Notes Podcast.” It’s entitled “Embrace the Crossroads.” I explore how a pivotal moment in the “Mad Men” television series coupled with a song by Buddy Holly connects to the infinite possibilities at the end of a school year.

Here’s the link for the podcast: Click HERE.

Please feel free to share the podcast with friends and colleagues. Thanks for listening!

#143DayEdu: A Day of Kindness in Education in Honor of Mister Rogers

#143DayEdu: A Day of Kindness in Education in Honor of Mister Rogers

By Sean Gaillard and Jennifer Williams

A renaissance for kindness has surfaced within the last few years as a vital component of a schoolhouse’s culture. Educators in classrooms all around the world are finding ways to slow things down a bit and take notice of acts of kindness and goodwill — prioritizing relationships and making memories together along the way.

Fred Rogers, children’s broadcasting icon, promoted kindness for 31 seasons in a simple and sincere way on the television masterpiece, “Mister Rogers Neighborhood.” In honor of Mr. Rogers, the state of Pennsylvania has designated May 23 (the 143rd day of the calendar year) as #143DayinPA. This stands as a tribute to homestate hero, Fred Rogers, and his favorite number. “143” is numeric code for “I Love You.” We thought it would be fitting to extend the 143 culture of kindness to education with the #143DayEdu hashtag.

#143DayEdu

Using the #143DayEdu hashtag, we are encouraging all educators to share examples of kindness happening on May 23. To join in on the fun, simply use #143DayEdu to promote acts of kindness and compassion happening in the schoolhouse. You are also invited to join us this Thursday, May 23 at 8:30 – 9:00 p.m. EDT for a special Twitter Chat where we intend to promote positivity and celebrate the enduring legacy of Fred Rogers.

Here are the questions and times for Thursday night’s Twitter chat. To join, simply head over to Twitter by clicking HERE at 8:30pm ET and watch for the Qs from @smgaillard and @JenWilliamsEdu.

• Q1: Thinking back to Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood, what are some of your fondest memories of the show? (8:35 pm ET)
• Q2: What lessons can we learn from Mr. Rogers that we can apply to the classroom? (8:40 pm ET)
• Q3: How did you promote kindness in your school recently? (8:47pm ET)
• Q4: What are some ways we can finish the school year promoting kindness with our school communities? (8:53 pm ET)

Pass It On

As we prepare for #143DayEdu and the #143DayEdu Twitter chat, we invite you to consider this quote on kindness from Mr. Rogers along with these related resources. Please feel free to share the invitation for a Day of Kindness — pass it on! We look forward to this special week and the opportunity to celebrate you — just for being you!

Imagine what our real neighborhoods would be like if each of us offered, as a matter of course, just one kind word to another person.

• WSKG (PBS/NPR), our #143DayEdu partner: Blog post
• Thank you, Mr. Rogers: Blog post
• #143DayEdu Official Adobe Spark page
• PBS NewsHour Extra Column

Get Back on the Rooftop

Here’s Episode 13 of “The Principal Liner Notes Podcast” entitled “Get Back on the Rooftop.”

Click HERE to listen!