A Time to Celebrate

Schools often make the mistake of focusing so intently on improvement strategies that they fail to take the time to mark the occasion and celebrate successes.  One of the most important principles in change theory is that organizations should celebrate small successes as a way to create momentum and maintain morale.

Most thought leaders in education acknowledge that this past year was one of the most, if not the most, challenging year in the history of public education.  This may make it more difficult to sift through some of the frustration and recognize the good, but it also makes it all that much more important.

The Arlington Central School District based out of LaGrangeville, NY, recently celebrated its 97th commencement ceremony.  Arlington experienced many of the common difficulties that, at times, overwhelmed a majority of school districts across the country.  Layered on top of that were some truly unique and tragic incidents that made it extremely difficult to maintain proper focus on student learning and emotional well-being.

Despite that, thanks to the hard work of our dedicated staff and the incredible support of the entire community, Arlington has much to celebrate.  My recent letter to the community addresses some of those accomplishments.  I am sharing that letter in this blog to honor the commitment and effort of all involved and to encourage all of you to consider something similar if you have not yet done so.

I hope you all have a great summer.  The work continues.  Take good care.   

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