That Pencil, that Phone Call, and the Power we Hold

Last week I told you the story of the mom who started crying when I bragged on her daughter for bringing her pencil to school.

If you missed it, you can check it out here.

This story reinforced two important lessons for me:

First, educators have tremendous power to brighten a student's day.  And through a quick phone call to a parent, they can bring some sunshine into their life as well. 

Do not leave compliments left unsaid.

When we're proud of our kids, we should tell them. When they're making progress, we should encourage them.  They will remember our kind words longer than they will remember our lesson.  We are not just offering our students an education; we are offering them hope.

And second, when we struggle with students, there is a good chance that parents experience those same struggles.

There are parents who are nervous every time they put their kids on the bus; they experience a little bit of anxiety every time they drop their students off at school. They are wondering... 

"Will he get in trouble again today?"

"Will anyone sit with her at lunch?"

"Will the kids mess with him in the hallway?

"Will she forget her pencil again?"

There are some students for whom school is not a good experience, and parents share in that struggle with their child.

They experience it through the silence in the car, through the constant "stomach aches" in the morning, and sometimes through the very real tears.  These students need our attention, they need our patience, and they need our love. 

Educators make a difference for students every day, and as it turns out... they make a difference for parents too.

“In The Instructional Leader in YOU, Danny Steele masterfully combines relatable anecdotes, practical strategies, and genuine insights that empower leaders at every stage of their journey. This book isn’t filled with abstract theories; it's packed with real-world, actionable steps to help you become the instructional leader your teachers and students deserve. If you're ready to lead with intention, purpose, and heart, this is the book you need on your desk!”

Thomas C. Murray, Best-Selling Author, and Director of Innovation, Future Ready Schools

"In The Instructional Leader in YOU, Danny Steele has hit the home run that all principals have needed for years. This book was written for me and other leaders who have a desire to lead and learn better so we can empower others. The powerful relationships and curiosity that are formed in a school culture that prioritizes instruction and learning, are the cornerstones of this book. It is filled with real life examples and research-based evidence that will help any leader improve. I will read this one twice, for sure."

Salome Thomas-EL. Ed.D, Award-winning Principal and Author

Cheers!

Danny

P.S. I picked up about 50 new subscribers in my first week! Kinda stoked about that! Thanks for sharing this with your colleagues who you think would appreciate it.