As we embark on the second semester and embrace the opportunities of a new year, the significance of reflection in the realm of education cannot be overstated. In Episode 20 of The Conference Room, hosts Herman & Jessica Brister initiated a profound conversation on the imperative need for district, school, and teacher leaders to engage in a purposeful process of reflection. This reflection, pivotal in shaping the trajectory of success, revolves around five key pillars.

Summer is the time educators use to relax and rejuvenate. It is indeed another opportunity to reflect on the previous year and plan for the year ahead. You can prepare your teams and students for a successful school year by taking this time to reflect and strategize. Here are a few things you may want to add to your summer to-do list.

If elite athletes, with superior talents, have multiple coaches to hone their craft, why do other professionals believe a coach is only for those who struggle? At the peak of an athlete’s career, he/she may have a team kof coaches to help them optimize their performance.

The best leaders are Action-takers! When we lead through action, we set a positive example for our team and inspire them to take action without fear of failure. In this way, we avoid one of the worst traits that any leader can possess: hypocrisy. Not many things create dissent amongst your team as quickly as being seen to be hypocritical.

A new year gives us a chance for new beginnings. It is the time to bid farewell to old habits and things that are not working while welcoming the coming year with new ideas and new ways of thinking. Time to use our past experiences and the knowledge we have gained to support growth and positive change.