Beyond the classroom walls: working to make a bigger difference in children's lives

Leadership, March-April, 2002 by Don Iglesias

Dear Colleague:

If you're like me, you became a teacher because you love helping children learn. There's really no other reason to do the work of an educator. There is also no other way to experience the joy that results from seeing new worlds open up for our students.

And if you're like me, you enjoyed being in the classroom with the kids, in the midst of the action. But you also saw that you could make a difference in the lives of more children if you moved beyond the walls of the classroom, into administration.

Most of us were encouraged by mentors who believed in us and saw promise in our ability to inspire, motivate and influence others. I think that all of us have had the good fortune of working with people who showed us how important the work of leading schools is, and who helped teach us how to succeed under challenging conditions.

Now here we are, performing those jobs that we aspired to years ago. On good days, we feel like we are changing the world. On bad days, we feel like we carry the weight of the world on our shoulders, and wonder how we'll make it out from under the pressure. But we persevere, become better at what we do and help our schools improve day by day.

In this issue you will read about how your colleagues find inspiration in their work, and how they manage to maintain their effectiveness and creativity despite the pressures of their jobs. You will read a lot about the importance of a balanced life.

Many of you know surfing is my stress reliever, as well as a source of great joy and renewal. The adrenaline rush of flying down the face of a wave has enhanced my ability to tackle tough issues as an administrator. I have also found joy in serving as ACSA's president, meeting so many of my colleagues and being awed by your creativity, energy and passion. When the going gets tough, please remember what an inspiration you are and what a difference you make in the quality of life for the students of California.

Sincerely,

Don Iglesias

Don Iglesias
ACSA President