Welcome back TEPSANs!
Right now, you’re likely in the middle of finalizing class lists, conducting last-minute interviews, planning meaningful back-to-school professional learning, and much more. It may often be thankless work, but it is crucial work, nonetheless. As I enter my 11th year in the principalship, I can fully appreciate all the work you’re doing at the campus and district level to prepare for a successful 24-25 school year, and it will soon pay off. On behalf of TEPSA, “Thank You!”
It is an absolute honor to serve as your State President this year, and I can’t wait to support you through the work of our amazing association. As we look ahead to this year, our TEPSA theme is “School Leaders… the Pride of Texas!” I consider myself a pretty proud Texan, and there are countless points of pride within our great state: from Buc-ee’s to bluebonnets, and Beyonce to Blue Bell. There is so much to celebrate!
I would argue, though, that some of our most precious resources are our Texas kids, our educators, and our school leaders. That’s why we will focus this year on celebrating our school leaders as the “Pride of Texas.” Every day, you go to work and take on the challenges of educating kids and supporting our teachers. You lead your schools/district while also balancing the needs of your family and personal lives. That is definitely something worth celebrating.
Before you know it, we’ll be in the “thick” of the new school year. Along with all our school and district responsibilities come equally important and critical roles that we have as educational advocates. This year will be a legislative year in Texas, and as a new legislative session begins in January, I challenge you to start NOW developing and fostering relationships with your local and state elected officials. It’s important they hear from us and have our input as they make pivotal decisions regarding educational policy and funding.
I can’t wait to connect with you over the coming year at one of our many in-person or virtual TEPSA events. Thank you for leading and taking on the daily challenges we face as administrators. You are the “Pride of Texas!”
Here’s to a great year.
Cooper Hilton is a principal in Coppell ISD.
