Howdy TEPSANs, and Happy Holidays!
Many of us are likely looking ahead to the upcoming breaks with anticipation and excitement. As school/district leaders, it’s healthy to embrace these rare opportunities to rest and disconnect from the demands of the job. It’s also a great time to reflect on the fall semester and appreciate the impact you’ve had so far.
What is something you are proud of this year? How is your school or district better because of your leadership? One of the highlights that stands out to me this semester has been the opportunity I have had to mentor and supervise an aspiring administrator. A remarkable teacher of mine is pursuing his principal certification, and I have been able to partner with him this semester to fulfill his internship requirements. This mentorship has likely meant more to me than it has to him because of the personal satisfaction and joy it’s given me to shape (even if just a little) the future leader he may become.
Mentoring and supporting this future principal through his internship has also prompted me to reflect on all the leaders who poured into me over the years. Oftentimes, these mentors saw traits and abilities I didn’t see in myself. They encouraged me to pursue new opportunities, new challenges, and new learning. Bob Proctor described a mentor well when he said it is “someone who sees more talent and ability within you than you see in yourself and helps bring it out of you.”
As we approach the midpoint of our school year, who are you helping to grow? How are you supporting and mentoring those you help lead? It may very well be someone who currently lacks confidence or clarity of their abilities or skills, and YOU may be the one to inspire that next step. As a TEPSAN, be bold in helping grow the next generation of Texas school leaders.
Finally, as election season ends, this is the perfect time to reach out to your elected officials with a congratulatory note. Whether you agree with their positions or not, these officials will be instrumental in shaping education policy in the upcoming Texas legislative session. Start now in building and fostering these relationships.
Remember, YOU are the “Pride of Texas!”
Cooper Hilton is a principal in Coppell ISD.
