Each school year tells its own story. For me, the 2023–2024 year was one of energy, creativity, and connection—the kind of year that reminds you why you became an educator in the first place. It was a year filled with joyful student experiences, ambitious programming, and a deep commitment to school-wide excellence.

Due to the excellence achieved in the 2023–2024 school year, we were honored with the Magnet Schools of America Excellence Award, a recognition that celebrated the amazing things our students and leadership achieved together: a school musical, a spelling bee, after-school science, robotics, and so much more. That award was based on a community effort and a shared commitment to doing what’s best for students.

In the time since, many things have shifted. Our school leadership changed. Some of those beloved programs didn’t return this year. But despite change, what I’ve learned is this: educator resilience is not just about holding on—it’s about building forward.

Here are five powerful lessons that continue to shape my work and remind me that our best work always begins with people, purpose, and possibility.

1. Purpose Is Paramount

When the “why” is clear, the work becomes meaningful—even when it’s hard.

This past year, I’ve reflected often on why I show up early, stay late, and keep building new experiences for students. My reason is simple: to give kids the kind of education that changes lives.

When we earned the Magnet Excellence Award, it wasn’t for following a checklist—it was for building a culture of creativity, rigor, and opportunity. From coordinating performances to expanding STEM programs, everything we did came from a place of shared purpose.

And even as things changed this year—new leadership, shifting priorities, evolving support—I never lost that sense of purpose. If anything, it became more important. It reminded me that the most consistent thing in education is our “why.” And for me, that’s always been about unlocking student potential.

2. Relationships Create Real Impact

Awards and recognitions are important—but the moments that truly stay with us are grounded in connection.

One of the standout students who contributed was Fredrick, a first grader who became an unexpected but vital part of our underwater robotics team. While most might assume robotics is reserved for upper-grade students, Fredrick proved otherwise. He brought unmatched curiosity, energy, and focus to our work. He asked smart questions and showed his older teammates that passion—not age—drives innovation.

Fredrick reminded all of us that when you open doors for students, they often walk through them with more courage than we expect.

That’s the kind of impact no data point can measure. And it’s not just about students. Strong schools are built on relationships—with families, with colleagues, and with our broader community.

This year, I leaned on parent support more than ever. With fewer internal resources, I reached out and found families ready to step up—driving to competitions, helping with projects, and cheering from the sidelines. The message was clear: when we build trust, people rise.

3. Innovation Needs Champions

Creativity doesn’t always fit neatly into systems—and that’s okay. Innovation is worth fighting for.

This year, our robotics program grew in ways I’m proud of. We expanded teams, built new structures, and kept student engagement high. But it wasn’t easy. With two teams and less institutional support than in the past, I had to get creative—finding extra practice times, rallying volunteers, and reimagining how to make it all work.

What I’ve learned is that innovation thrives when we champion it—loudly, persistently, and with heart. It’s not always convenient. It’s not always well-funded. But it’s worth it.

Whether it’s a robotics scrimmage, a student-led art show, or a science night that lights up the cafeteria, innovative moments show students that learning isn’t limited to a textbook. And sometimes, the most important lesson for kids to see is that adults keep building, even when things get difficult.

4. Listening Builds Trust

Every educator wants to be heard. Every family wants to feel valued. And every student wants to know they matter.

One of the most important lessons this year was this: listening is leadership. With so much change happening around me, I made it a point to stay grounded in conversation—with parents, teachers, and especially students.

I listened to concerns. I heard frustrations. But I also heard ideas, dreams, and gratitude. And in listening, we built bridges—some quiet, some strong, but all necessary.

In a time when staff morale and school culture can shift quickly, creating space for honest dialogue is key. It’s how we stay connected. It’s how we solve problems. And it’s how we grow stronger, together.

5. Resilience Is a Team Sport

Educator resilience isn’t just about individual strength. It’s about community.

This year, I leaned into collaboration in new ways. I asked for help. I accepted it when offered. I focused on building with the people who said “yes” to kids. And I’m proud of what we accomplished.

Yes, we missed out on a few traditions this year. But we gained clarity on what really matters: students experiencing success, joy, and growth. That’s the work I’ll always show up for.

True resilience isn’t about enduring in silence. It’s about finding the people who share your values—and lifting each other up. It’s about mentoring others, helping organize parent events, and encouraging students to try one more time.

Because at the end of the day, we rise by lifting others.

Closing Thoughts: The Power of We

This past year has challenged me. But it’s also renewed me.

I’m reminded that systems may shift and support may vary—but our commitment to students never wavers. I’ve seen what’s possible when we work together, listen deeply, and never lose sight of our purpose.

If you’re an educator who’s navigating change, feeling unseen, or wondering if the work still matters—please hear this:

It does. You do. And the impact you make is greater than you know.

Let’s keep building. Let’s keep listening. Let’s keep putting students first.

That’s the Power of We.

Learn more about supporting innovation and resilience in education by visiting TechSparked.org.