Hi peeps,
It’s been a fantastically busy week, but a darn good one.
I’ve seen all of my colleagues, quite a few students, and have made too many staff hats to count. (Check out the video in last week’s email if you missed it). It’s starting feel like the year is back, and I’m here for it!
Can I be transparent about something? Last year was my fifth year of this here newsletter, and, to be honest, it started to drag a bit for me. The PD was time-consuming to develop; it was getting harder to find fun videos, and I just found myself without as much motivation as in years past.
Well, thanks to a few small tweaks, I’m really enjoying the vibe of this year’s newsletter so far. The videos have been fun to find, the PD is coming together, and I’m loving sharing the discussion questions each week. Also, reading the first survey and compiling the results has been a blast! You all have some amazing insights … which I plan to share midweek!
All that to say, thanks for being a part of this. It means a lot to me and I’m glad you’re here.
This week we’ve got a fascinating video on leadership (and followership) and PD on making connections with students at the beginning of the year. I hope it’s helpful!
Have a great week!
Weekly Video
Use in staff newsletters, encouraging emails, etc.
Possible Caption: Leadership starts something. Courageous followership helps it become something.
Vote below, and we’ll track your favorite videos in our archive.
Looking for a past video. Check our archive.
Weekly Quote
"No one has ever become poor by giving."
Anne Frank
Weekly Staff/Student Discussion Question
Use in a staff meeting, student discussion, ask your own kids … see what happens!
Question: Do you talk to yourself? If so, how often?
If you have one, hit “comment” at the bottom of this post and share yours! Mine: I talk to myself constantly.
Weekly Emailable PD
Use in staff newsletters, emailable PD messages, etc.
Suggested Email Body:
This week’s resource focuses on a foundation for learning: strong connections. When students feel known, respected, and capable, they are more likely to trust their teacher, engage in class, and persevere through challenges.
The challenge is not planning elaborate activities, but making small moments count. Real questions, respectful redirection, and specific encouragement communicate care while preserving clear expectations.
This week’s resource offers four low-prep ways to build connection into everyday teaching. With a few names, a few minutes, and consistent follow-through, small interactions can strengthen trust over time.
