Thanksgiving and time for reflection

It seems extremely appropriate that Monday and Tuesday of Thanksgiving week were devoted to meetings with Dr. Alexa Posny, Kansas Commissioner of Education, two members of the Governor’s staff, and some forward-looking individuals from NEA and Knowledge Works Foundation. We don’t often get a chance to stop and think about the purpose of our lives and profession, but that was exactly the focus of this group’s discussions. In coming months I hope to follow up with more about this group – for now, though, let me just say that I couldn’t have been more impressed with the genuine caring of Dr. Posny for our students and our profession. It’s a privilege to work with her, the Governor’s office and the others who came to Kansas from Knowledge Works and NEA.

I hope each of you had a chance to spend some time over Thanksgiving with family and friends. Since this time last year three close friends or members of my family have been diagnosed with cancer. Each one is demonstrating tremendous strength in their respective battles. I feel so fortunate that each one is making progress towards remission, but I’m also reminded that our time for work and family is not guaranteed. We have to make the most of our opportunities. Their courage impresses me just as does the commitment of Dr. Posny. I’m very fortunate to know each of these people.

One other activity of the past week was a chance to use the time over the holiday to spend 2 days cleaning up files at my desk. The time alone allowed me to remember how thankful I am for the people in my life: (to just name a few) Dr. Posny, KNEA Vice President Sherri Yourdon, Bruce and Diana Goeden, my sister-in-law (and life long teacher) Sheri Adams… and for the tremendously talented and caring members of KNEA. Thanks to each of you for your work and for the opportunity to represent you.