Reflecting on my career in education evokes a mixture of deep affection and significant stress. The joy of connecting with children, discovering their motivations, and fostering a nurturing environment for each individual was profound. I loved the sparkle in their eyes when they entered my classroom or, later, when I greeted them each morning as a principal. These moments are forever etched in my heart.

However, the role of an educator is also immensely challenging. Teachers take on multiple roles—educator, caregiver, nurse, counselor, data analyst, and curriculum developer. Initially, I thrived in this multifaceted role, but over the years, the increasing expectations and diminishing resources took their toll.

Transitioning to a principal allowed me to shift my focus towards mentoring teachers and staff, cultivating a school culture so vibrant it was almost tangible. From the secretary to the custodial staff, everyone embraced our mission and strategic goals.

Yet, this role came with its own set of challenges. Dealing with the trauma affecting many students and their families was daunting. Building a warm, collaborative school environment meant treating each crisis and conflict with the care typically reserved for family disputes, requiring immense time and effort. Additional pressures included evolving district policies, the impact of social media, a global pandemic, and personal challenges.

Despite the job’s demands, I might have continued if not for an opportunity to move abroad due to my husband’s job. This shift forced me to reassess my career goals. In graduate school, a professor once spoke of the importance of observing both the details on the dance floor and the broader view from the balcony. It was time for me to take to the balcony and reevaluate my professional path.

This reflection led me to crave more from my career, though I was initially unsure of the direction. I explored new avenues, becoming a program manager for an online K-12 school and later doing freelance instructional design. These experiences in the private sector were enriching as I was learning new skills and interacting with a diverse set of colleagues.  But my enduring passion for working with students always remained true. 

As I continued to explore ways to enrich my career while still engaging with students, I stumbled upon Executive Function Skills coaching. Through coursework and offering free sessions at my previous school in Colorado, I discovered the perfect balance of passion, challenge, and fulfillment. This new role allows me to push beyond my previous boundaries while still profoundly impacting students’ lives.  I can’t wait to see where this next journey leads me!