I hope everyone enjoyed their weekend full of exactly what you wanted to be doing.  I was able to spend the weekend working, resting, and connecting with those most dear to me, which was pretty awesome.  On last Monday morning, I went to the dentist for the first time in about three years. (Turns out opening a new school is not a valid dental excuse according to my dentist.)  Can you imagine what the dentist and hygienist had to say? Once we got past the coffee stains, we were able to have a meaningful conversation, and guess what??? They had lots of feedback for me regarding my teeth, gums, and overall oral health. Can you believe that? They had feedback on MY TEETH!!! The nerve of some professionals who have had years of training. How dare they tell me about my teeth? I have been brushing my teeth since before my dentist was even born!

Have you ever felt that way? I know I have and did this morning. My dentist had feedback that I knew was coming, but yet, I did not want to hear. Why? Is it because I do not care or trust her? Was I not ready? I mean I made the appointment.  No, my frustration around her feedback was that it hurt my feelings, and it painfully reminded me that I could indeed be better in my oral care. (I am being honest here, so stop mocking me Bob!) Feedback has a way of doing just that, whether from a dentist or supervisor or friend.  However, when we step back, take the feedback, and act on it, we are closer to being our best self. I hope you will take the opportunity to engage in the #ObserveMe opportunities, provide effective to your students, and reflect on the feedback that your administrator gives you. Feedback makes us all better partly because it allows us to (wait for it) Learn Together.

Thank you for innovating and leading!

Jonathon