As we sit with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, I wanted to take a moment to reach out to you with a message of reflection and gratitude.
The summer solstice, celebrated on June 20th this year, marks not only a significant moment in the Earth’s annual journey around the sun but also provides a symbolic opportunity for us to reflect on the past school year and look ahead to the future.
The solstice, with its extended daylight, encourages us to embrace the light and warmth, fostering an environment of growth and renewal. And certainly it’s renewal time for all educators! Time to rejuvenate, to lean back, to sleep in, to re-think, re-fresh, re-view.
Just as the sun reaches its peak, illuminating the world with its fullest expression of light, we too have reached the culmination of another school year, having given it our all to illuminate the minds and hearts of our students and staff.
One thing I’ve noticed over the past couple of years is that we underestimate the power of reflection, the impact, and opportunity it creates.
We are ready to move onto the next thing, the new year, the new plan, new goals… reflection would help serve all of those things!
Recently, I sent an agenda to a school leader in preparation for some training. I have to say I was not totally surprised when he asked about ‘moving the first part (reflection) and getting into the material more quickly’. As he said, “we are a group of type A people here, we move fast.”
I’ve come to expect some pushback to reflection, to big picture work, to acknowledging and celebrating what was accomplished. And yet, I keep leaning in; I keep bringing reflection to the table and encouraging a slow down to speed up process…. “Yes, let’s make some shifts, and yet, I want to be sure to maximize the superpower practice of reflection. Of thinking about our own thinking. Of taking ourselves on, with grace and authenticity. In how we showed up. When we didn’t. What got in the way. And what knowledge, skills, tools, mindsets, habits and practices would we need to expand our impact and influence?
And maybe most importantly, what did we learn? And what did we learn about ourselves as learners?
So, today, I invite you as you’re fresh and ready to unplug to pause and take a few moments to reflect, to invite in so you don’t miss all that happened on the journey – maybe write it out, or just sit in contemplation while watching the birds on your porch or the waves at the beach.
“By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.”
Consider using this summer solstice as a time for reflection and planning:
Perhaps explore:
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- Celebrate Achievements: Take time to acknowledge and celebrate the successes of the past school year. Reflect on the progress your students and staff have made, the innovative teaching methods you’ve implemented, and the personal growth you’ve experienced as an educator.
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- Evaluate and Learn: Use this period to assess what worked well and what could be improved. Reflect on the challenges you faced and consider new strategies or resources that could help you overcome similar obstacles in the future.
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- Personal Growth: The summer solstice is a reminder of the importance of self-care and personal well-being. Consider how you can use the summer break to recharge and rejuvenate. Whether it’s through reading, professional development, or simply taking time to relax, investing in yourself is crucial.
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- Set Goals: With the extended daylight, think about the long-term goals you want to set for the upcoming school year. What new initiatives or projects would you like to undertake? How can you continue to inspire and engage your students and staff?
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- Community and Connection: Reflect on the importance of community in your teaching practice. How can you strengthen relationships with colleagues, students, and parents? Consider ways to foster a supportive and collaborative learning environment.
As we enjoy these longer days, let’s take advantage of the extra light to illuminate our own paths forward. I encourage each of you to take some time during the solstice to reflect on your journey as an educator, celebrate your successes, and plan for the future with renewed energy and inspiration.
And part of my reflection is always in gratitude for our shared work in improving learning for all students.
I appreciate and honor you for your dedication, passion, and commitment to education. Your efforts make a profound difference in the lives of your students and the broader community. Wishing you all a restful and reflective summer break