|
We talk a lot about the future this time of year while reflecting on the past year. We encourage students to look forward, to set new goals and to be excited about what is coming next in their lives. We celebrate the end of the school year and the beginning of the next milestone. But, let's be honest. Change is not easy. In fact, change can be downright difficult.
This is not a new philosophy. In fact, science tells us that our brains are hardwired to prefer consistency rather than change. Did you know that people are so uncomfortable with change that they would rather know that something negative will happen than not know what the outcome will be? Albert Einstein stated that the measure of intelligence is the ability to change. It's hard to argue with a genius, but I believe it might not be the measure of intelligence, as much as the measure of bravery.
Regardless, change is inevitable - another cliché. So, it may be easier to shift our perception rather than accept that change is easy Maybe we need to see change as the start of something great, something new, or something limitless. As we put away the backpacks for the summer, throw out the sneakers our kids have outgrown, empty our email inboxes, or even start packing our student's belongings as they prepare to leave home, the fear and sadness we feel are real. But we also can choose to feel excited. A new chapter is about to unfold.
For our educators and staff, that chapter might include a new roster of students, a new curriculum, or even a new classroom or workspace. For graduates, that chapter might include a move, a new career, or a new course of study. For parents, that chapter might consist of new responsibilities, more free time, or new associations. But for all of us, change can equal something new.
So as you roll through these next few weeks and into the summer, embrace the changes that are happening around you and use the uncertainty to fuel excitement and positivity. Let life surprise you a little. And remember, progress is impossible without change.
Enjoy your summer.
Nathan Hale
Superintendent
| 
