Leading with Gratitude and Vision This February
Hello!
February is a great time to reflect and plan ahead. While mid-year fatigue can set in, it’s also an opportunity to revisit priorities, support your educators, and refine your long-term vision.
?With Valentine’s Day around the corner, it’s the perfect time to bring joy to your school and show appreciation for your team. A small gesture or heartfelt note can go a long way in reminding educators that their work is seen, appreciated, and truly makes a difference. A strong culture of appreciation fosters engagement, motivation, and trust — impacting every part of a school community.
?February is also a good moment to check in on school culture. Are educators feeling supported? Are students engaged and connected? The energy in schools can be unpredictable right now, making it even more important to take the pulse of your community. Small adjustments can create a meaningful shift in momentum.
?This is also an ideal time to align strategies with district goals and equity initiatives. As you plan for the future, consider how to keep your vision clear and actionable for your team. If you're looking for research-backed insights, this eBook offers valuable perspectives on building strong classroom connections and fostering student engagement.
?As we move forward, it’s worth revisiting the priorities set at the start of the year. In last month’s issue, we focused on engagement and progress—how is your school measuring up? What adjustments can help maintain momentum? Taking stock now can help set a strong foundation for the remainder of the year.
?Beyond culture and strategy, February is a good time to assess how your systems are working together. Interoperability isn’t just a buzzword — it’s key to efficiency and sustainability. If you haven’t already, take a 15 second survey to evaluate your systems and identify opportunities for stronger integration.
?Your leadership shapes the success of your schools and the well-being of your teams. Though often challenging, the work you do has a profound impact. Thank you for leading with heart and determination. This month, take a moment to recognize your own efforts and celebrate the difference you’re making.
?With appreciation,
— The Along Team
?P.S.: Thank you for all you do. Wishing you a February filled with meaningful connections and moments of joy.
Spark meaningful discussions with your school community by posing this thought-provoking question:?
? When has a story — fictional or true — helped you better understand a perspective different from your own?
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Want to cultivate a school culture where kindness thrives? Share this inspiring activity with your teachers and watch as small acts of compassion create a ripple effect of positivity throughout your entire school community.?
“This keeps the environment warm and inviting,” says Malcolm Connor, assistant principal at Brooklyn Collegiate High School, about his "Wellness Wednesday" staff newsletter. Explore this article for more ways school leaders can foster positive school culture.
“I believe Along can help us with the kids who are new to our school and have chronic absences. Any new kid who comes to us, we have an academic counselor attached to that student who will use Along to pose a question to them to make sure there is a pulse check and so that hopefully the kids feel like someone cares. I think we only had 10 kids absent last Tuesday — that never happens! It’s usually between 15-20. Our attendance shows that we have strong engagement.”
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— Neil Egasani, dean of students at Magnolia Science Academy, Strong relationships affect academics and attendance: an Along school story in San Diego
Student absenteeism has nearly doubled from 15% in 2018-2019 to 30% in 2021-2022, highlighting the critical role of teacher-student relationships. Schools that prioritize strong connections can help reverse this trend, creating environments where students feel valued and motivated to attend.?
Learn more in our latest eBook, "Strong classroom connections improve student outcomes".
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See one school’s results when they focused on fostering relationships at their school.