One morning, three sixth-grade math teachers walked into my office carrying a gift.
Not a report.
Not a complaint.
A gift.
They handed me a small, homemade starfish, its edges dusted with glitter. They had made it themselves.
That moment has stayed with me long after my time as a principal.
During their planning period, these three teachers had come together with an idea. They wanted to reshuffle their study hall rosters—not for convenience, but for impact. By regrouping students intentionally, they believed they could provide more targeted, meaningful intervention.
They had already done the hard thinking.
They had already worked through the logistics.
They weren’t asking me to solve a problem.
They just needed my approval.
What struck me most was this: their plan meant more work for them. Extra effort. Extra planning. Extra responsibility. And they were eager to take it on—because they knew it would make a difference for their students.
And that’s why they brought the starfish.
They knew I couldn’t resist the metaphor.
(If you’re familiar with The Starfish Story, you already know why.)
Of course, the answer was yes. It was an easy decision—but an unforgettable moment. Their initiative, their collaboration, and their quiet commitment to students still inspire me.
And when I think about that starfish, I don’t just think about those three teachers.
I think about all educators—showing up every day, doing work that matters deeply, one student at a time. Work that is meaningful… and exhausting. Fulfilling… and draining.
You are engaged in important work.
And you deserve rest.
I hope you have a restful and relaxing break with your family. Enjoy the holiday season.
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Cheers!
Danny
