For my 16th school year, in the year 2023, I literally answered a call about considering moving from teaching to administration. After much thought and conversations with my now husband, colleagues of past and present, and of course school leadership, I said yes. From when I said “Yes!” to Week 8 into the school year, I didn’t have the smoothest take off and had a hard time keeping the plane in the air.
“I Am With You Always…”
The theme that the Department of Catholic Schools came up with this year is from the book of Matthew: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.” (Mt 28:19-20).
Admittedly, I didn’t read the whole thing. I only read what stuck out: I am with you always. I have been thinking about that quote since it started, and today, in the quiet of the Santa Cruz evening, after breaking bread with colleagues…it finally made sense to me. Throughout our meetings and communications, someone always has something that goes back to the theme, but nothing really stuck with me.
As teachers, we embark on the journey of learning with our students. Sometimes, we teach them something. Sometimes, they teach us something. Best of all, when both teachers and students discover something together. As educators, we take that walk with the students despite how difficult or easy the path is. Sometimes we offer a hand or a walking stick, but there will be times when we have to carry them (or as some say drag them to the finish line).
This is the beginning of the journey, and many administrators before me have shared how lonely of a road this is. As teachers, I could always count on a good faculty room/Happy Hour to commiserate and share stories with friends. As a principal, I could tell my teachers what I really think and break that professional wall (highly unadvisable). I could also talk to my fellow principals, but they don’t really know what I’m talking about as I wouldn’t truly understand their woes. I definitely call my associate superintendents, and they can listen and offer advice. Despite all of this, knowing that there are people walking with me and finally seeing that I am not alone. God, Jesus, Holy Spirit, my fellow administrators are all walking this journey with me.
Special thank you to all the folks that let me call them on my drive home to listen, allow me space to vent, and to catch up on life. You have truly made me feel connected.
Learning with Ms. Medrano 