My Cohort 21 Coaching Continuum

Looking back on last year, I can see that the focus I imagined for myself and the work that filled my days were not quite the same. I wanted to focus on diversity and equity. Those values remain part of who I am, but they are not the center of my day-to-day work. Much of that work has been about executive functioning, and my focus continues to be helping kids who are in dire need. I am learning to honor both what matters deeply to me and the work that is asking for my attention right now.

One important realization from the past year is that I have valuable ideas to contribute. I am also learning that teachers may not always have the answers—or know where to look for them. That understanding does not make the questions less important. It reminds me that learning is ongoing, and that there is value in being willing to ask, explore, and seek support. I am beginning to trust that I can bring something meaningful to those conversations, even while I continue learning.

As I move into Season 15, I want to focus more deliberately on student reading. In particular, I want to think about how to cultivate a love of reading among young boys. This is a focus I want to explore with curiosity and care. I do not have every answer, and I do not need to pretend that I do. I want to keep learning about the possibilities, listen to the questions that arise, and find ways to support students who need that encouragement.

My professional identity is still evolving. As I meet more people, I discover new avenues for supporting my learning and developing my ideology. Those connections help me see that growth does not have to mean having everything figured out. It can mean becoming more open to ideas, noticing where I want to go next, and being willing to keep moving forward.

I hope Cohort 21 will help me connect with people who may have resources to answer my questions. I want to learn from the community, share what I am thinking, and stay open to perspectives that can support my work. I do not have a specific soundtrack track for this part of my journey. What I imagine instead is a catchy tune with the feeling of “still learning but surprisingly confident.” That phrase captures a balance I am trying to hold: humility about what I still need to learn, alongside growing trust in what I can offer.

As I continue this coaching journey, I want to stay connected, curious, and ready to learn. My focus may shift as my work and understanding evolve, but my commitment to helping kids in dire need remains. I am grateful for the people I will meet and the questions we will explore together. I hope to keep growing through community and coaching—one thoughtful conversation, new connection, and next step at a time.