The things I have loved about Coaching are the powerful, never perfect, progressive communication skills. How to be a better listener. How to respond in a way so that the other person feels heard. How to be self-aware of my own feelings and emotions and manage them in conversations.

One thing I know for sure, change will only come through conversations and discourse – one person at a time, one group at a time. What courageous conversations must I have to begin the dialogue about race; about leadership that will influence the direction of our country?

I have determined I want to begin. I want to challenge myself to listen to another’s point of view and perspective without judgment. I want to gather accurate facts and specific examples of programs, policies, and actions. I must consider thoughtful questions that will create a safe space for others to answer and respond. I must be mindful that what is egregious to me may not even bother someone else. The ultimate goal is accepting people where they are and providing a safe, yet challenging space to consider a variety of points of view, inviting us to explore and learn together through dialogue and discourse.

What’s at stake? Our country: our purpose in creating a country where people are free to be who they are, to be educated, to find purpose and security…in the pursuit of happiness. It will never happen unless we are willing to listen and ask thoughtful, reflective questions without anger, hostility, or violence.

What’s at stake? Our children: without safe environments where children can grow and learn, we remain status quo at best. Administrators who lead districts and schools and hire teachers, must require, assess, and monitor that teachers uphold the agreed upon values aligned with respect for all students. It must be non-negotiable: systemic racism and other biases must be explored and understood so it can be dismantled. Respect for all cultures and religions and the belief in the best of all students must reside and thrive in this place.