A View from the Now-Retired Principal's Seat

 No--not my retirement. I'm going to retire a small piece of paper. Actually, it's a piece of cardstock from the pews in our church.  They're officially prayer cards.  If people in the service do not wish to share their prayer requests aloud, we simply write the praise or concern on the card and place it in a tray for our ministers to see.  It's a simple, low-tech way to share. For more than 15 years now I have taken a card, written my prayers on it, and kept it in my pocket.  If someone ever comes to me with concerns, struggles, or praises, I write it on the card.  When I put the card back in my pocket each morning I open it and say a little prayer.  When I'm finished with the card, I put it in a basket on top of my dresser.  My basket is full!  Some cards last a week.  Others last a little longer.  This particular card is dated 1-5-2020.  I've carried it for more than a year.  We've been through a lot, this card and me.  Everyone has been through a lot sin

 Two boxes recently appeared in our school office and front lobby. They were placed about three weeks ago, and I really didn't notice them.  Unfortunately, sometimes I'm moving so quickly that I don't pay attention to all of the details that happen in school.  Something, however, tugged at me each time I saw the boxes, and I finally took a look. As you can see they are made by students, and they are Positive Notes Boxes---for all.  (I like that last part the best.)  Each box is filled with little notes from different students.  I've copied some of them here: Don't give up! You are cool. Don't be shy to speak up. You can and you will. You are loved. I am not speechless very often, but these notes really touched me.  As a school leader I sometimes fall into the trap thinking that all inspiration must come from me.  I know that is a very shallow approach towards leadership, and I combat those feelings on a regular basis.  These notes and boxes remind me why we do w