I am passionate about helping underserved children. As both a teacher and an administrator, I witnessed firsthand how a strong, cohesive team of educators could create a positive school climate, even in the hardest conditions, which helped all students feel like they belong and improved their learning.
Twenty-five years into my career, I took on a new role in a county office of education, hopeful that I could help shift school culture on a larger scale. But after less than a year, unexpected restructuring eliminated my position. I felt sad, hurt, and as if I had somehow failed. My Protective Pattern of Distrusting kicked in, and although I considered other educational administration jobs, none felt true to my heart.
When Dovetail Learning reached out, I found myself at a crossroads: Do I leave the school system to support educators in a more meaningful way? By using the Centering Skill of Positive Reframing, I realized that joining Dovetail Learning wasn’t about leaving education but rather embracing the true work of my heart—helping educators show up as their best selves for their students.
Despite my excitement, some days still feel unfamiliar, and I miss the collaboration around student learning and school culture. To ground myself, I’ve been practicing the Centering Skill of Finding Gratitude by writing down three things I’m most grateful for each day. This simple practice helps remind me of the power and depth of the work we do through We Are Resilient™ and how this approach supports the vital work of helping educators build resilience.
Regularly practicing Resilience Skills builds our inner strength, allowing us to find beauty in whatever life brings and to stay on track. How will you practice your Resilience Skills this week?
With Resilience,
Emily and the Dovetail Learning team