INSPIRE After becoming interested in blogging several years ago, last year, I finally summoned up the courage to start my journey. Twenty posts later, I am more passionate than ever about the benefits this platform brings. As I've pushed myself to balance my own creation and consumption, the reasons behind why I blog and why... Continue Reading →

INSPIRE A marathon is 26.2 miles. No matter how quickly or slowly you run it, it's still 26.2 miles. As grueling as those miles are on your body, the true struggle happens in your mind. When does this happen? When do most marathoners hit "the wall?" Mile 10? Mile 13? No. Most marathoners quit at... Continue Reading →

INSPIRE brand /brand/ noun a type of product manufactured by a particular company under a particular name. "a new brand of detergent" I don't know about you, but making detergent isn't on my list of things I typically do during the day. So as educators, what does having a brand mean for us? And why is it... Continue Reading →

INSPIRE A co-worker approaches you after a long day and starts complaining about ________ (you can fill in the blank). You heartily agree and begin adding to the story with your own rendition of said complaint. In the blink of an eye, not only are the two of you venturing down a rabbit hole of... Continue Reading →

INSPIRE My official title: Melody Stacy, Principal My preferred titles: Melody Stacy, Believer-in-Chief, Lead Learner, Head Culture Creator, Chief Energy Officer, Chief Storyteller Chief Storyteller? Yes! I believe in the power of stories and realize the responsibility we have as educators and leaders to tell our stories to help change the narrative and create a... Continue Reading →

INSPIRE In my last post, What Is Your Why?, I reflected on the first of two questions from Seth Godin's manifesto (also featured in his TEDtalk, Stop Stealing Dreams). Danny Bauer kicks off his book, The Better Leaders Better Schools Roadmap, by asking and challenging others to answer these questions. Why do we do what we do? What... Continue Reading →

INSPIRE In a recent post, How Morning Affirmations Help You Take on the Impossible, I referenced the story of Colin O’Brady who, to many's amazement, accomplished the incredible feat of walking solo across Antarctica. As Colin shared his story, he spoke of his purpose, wanting to do something bigger than himself and inspiring others to take on the impossible... Continue Reading →

INSPIRE As leaders, we sometimes fall into the trap of thinking we need to have all of the answers. In reality, true leadership is in asking the right questions. This great leadership practice starts with the questions we are asking ourselves. Intentional daily questions have the ability to help anchor yourself in meaningful, impactful work... Continue Reading →

INSPIRE Starting out my first year as principal, my staff let me know loud and clear (Want to Know Your Team & School Better? Ask These 3 Questions) that they needed a leader who prioritized communication. And let's be honest, what team doesn't? I heard this message from them so loudly and clearly, in fact,... Continue Reading →