As leaders, we want to continually learn and grow.  We want to take advantage of high quality professional development, such as what is offered at our conferences and our area meetings.  We also want to reach out to our MoASBO colleagues and discuss the items that we are struggling with.  

When circumstances arise, and the need for decisions increases,  we grow by stretching outside of our comfort zone and by problem solving.

 

Over this past year I have experienced personal growth in several ways:

 -This was my first year to work on boundary line changes for our elementary schools.  We all know that is never done in isolation. Communication and community input is vital. 

 

-I have also grown by taking advantage of some exceptional professional development through both ASBO and MOASBO conferences.  

 

-I recently attended a "facilities forum" with school districts from around the nation, including New York City Public Schools.  While my school district is considered large in comparison to districts in Missouri, we are tiny compared to them with 1.1 million schools.

 

-For the first time, when I met with my superintendent this year to set my goals, I presented personal goals as well.  I want to schedule time to exercise more and to allocate time for self care.  This was an excellent conversation.   As school business officials we are challenged daily with coordinating the time that is needed for our jobs and time to spend with our families.  We need to remember as leaders we need to take care of ourselves so we can successfully lead others.  

 

I hope that during the next few weeks you are able to plan time to dedicate to your well-being.  That may include several things to each of us, but I hope it is filled with laughter and relaxation. 

 

I  also encourage you to take time to identify what you are thankful for. As they say, a grateful heart is a magnet for miracles.

 

MoASBO President
Patty Bedborough
Chief Financial Officer,
Parkway School District