In this season of reflection and gratitude, I offer this perspective: educators are the superheroes we long for during times of great transition and change.

A superhero doesn’t wait for change to happen, they become the change. They don’t wait for hope to arrive; they write it into being and invite others to join them in the story. When the world feels dim, they find ways to ignite inspiration, joy, and possibility from places we might not have seen before.

Across our state, I see educators creating spaces where children feel safe to take risks, to wonder, to fail, and to try again! You help them grow in knowledge—yes—but even more in heart. These small, often unseen moments are no less powerful.

To the educators reading this: live your truth. Before you is the next generation of dreamers, thinkers, and creators. Whether you are presenting ideas to colleagues, welcoming children into your classroom, or guiding a learning moment with gentle care, say it fully—in your voice and in your way.

Take a moment to notice one small thing you’ve done this week that helped a student feel seen, brave, or curious.  That spark, however small, carries your superpower.

Thank you for the gifts you share every day. You are someone’s favorite grown-up. You are shaping lives, inspiring courage, and creating spaces where children can shine. The light you bring to your students matters more than you know.

With gratitude and admiration,
Julio Bautista
Continuous Improvement Specialist

As we settle into the new school year, I am noticing the changing season all around—the neighborhood foliage shifting into their autumn hues, crisper air each morning, and apples falling into our yard. Fall always seems to invite us to pause, rethink our routines, and make space for new ones while letting go of what no longer serves us.

Recently, I came across the podcast Self-care for Educators by Dr. Tina H. Boogren. In each short episode, she offers educators a simple, practical tip to support our well-being. In the first episode of this season, she encourages us to write down one positive moment from each day. 

For me, today’s moment came in connecting with a colleague who is going through a rough patch. Being able to support her, just as she has so often supported me, reminded me how grateful I am for the connections we get to build in this work. Sharing that with you here only deepens the gratitude.

So I’m passing along the invitation. What went well for you today? Is this a routine you can build into your work day, perhaps with your students? Write it down. Share it with us. We’d love to spread the good stuff.

Wishing you an abundant fall,
Erin Lolich
Early Literacy Specialist

Belonging begins the moment a child walks through your door. The first weeks of school hold so much power. They are a chance to lay the foundation for safe, inclusive, and joyful spaces where every child feels seen, valued, and supported. Belonging grows from planting what matters most: trust, steady routines, and authentic relationships.

Even the simplest practices, such as a community circle, a morning meeting, or a greeting in a student’s native language, can make a classroom feel like home. Morning meetings, in particular, open the day with intention. They invite connection, play, and the kind of structure that nurtures a healthy classroom culture. They spark joy while offering the comfort of routine and the quiet assurance that students belong.

As you step into this new year, pause and consider: What is one practice you might deepen or try to grow a stronger sense of belonging in your classroom?

Warmly,
Talisa
Continuous Improvement Specialist

As children eagerly step into their new classrooms this year, I’m reminded of the countless stories ready to unfold across our schools.

Each child arrives like a living picture book. Some pages already filled with memories, experiences, and lessons—while others are still blank, waiting to be written.

Children aren’t just learners, they are also storytellers in motion; full of color and emotion, wisdom and wonder. Their stories are co-authored by moms and dads. Brothers and sisters. Tíos and tías. Cousins, grandparents, neighbors, and community members.

And just like them, you too have a year ahead with blank pages waiting to be penned. As you set up your classroom and plan your calendar, ask yourself:

What story will you create?

What hopes and dreams will be the blueprint of what you build together?

What will you do to stay grounded in your values? So that even when clouds appear, you’re ready with silver markers to outline their edges with light.

I hope this year is full of joy, discovery, connection, hope, and many beautiful stories worth telling!

Warmly,
Shawnté
Professional Learning Specialist