First Day As Superintendent

Seventeen years ago I had my first first day of school as an educator, teaching English at Simonsen 9th grade center in Jefferson City, a building with 700 ninth graders. I was excited about the challenges ahead of me, humbled by the responsibility I had been given, and a little nervous: halfway through my first class I spilled cofee on a student. 

This year I found myself in a new role as superintendent of Norborne RVIII, a district just shy of 200 students. In all honesty, I felt much more relaxed on this first day; however, it came on the heels of a six week ramp up that was anything but. When the kids got off the busses and headed to class it was satisfying moment and I took time to reflect on all the hard work I had witnessed from so many people that summer: coaches, principals, and teachers for sure, but also, and especially, custodians, secretaries, cooks, paras, and bus drivers. It takes so many folks to make a district go. Turns out, the superintendancy is the best seat in the house for watching all the activity.

Looking ahead at the year before me I am again excited about the challenges, humbled by the responsibility, and a little nervous. 

But at least I haven't spilled coffee on anyone, yet. 

(My first day was also my son's first day of kindergarten.)