As educators, one of the most important aspects of our job is the pastoral support we offer students. The amount of time we spend with students provides us an incredible opportunity to support their social, emotional, intellectual, physical, and spiritual well-being. This is done on a daily basis through classroom interactions, after school activities and coaching, and in having a growth mindset when it comes to helping students make positive choices.

I believe strongly in a holistic approach to education and supporting the whole child. At all stages of child development we support students in how to interact with one another, how to practice the skills of sharing and collaborating, how to understand that academic success is just as important as emotional success, and how to overcome challenges and persevere with grit and drive.

The importance of building positive relationships with students and families has a huge impact on the types of conversations that take place during times of pastoral support. As an assistant principal I am often tasked with working with students and families during difficult times. I do my best to approach all challenging situations with a growth mindset and use the technique of listening first and responding later. Rather than jumping to conclusions or placing judgement, it is important for me to gain perspective and listen to the stories and emotions behind the actions. I want to focus on the why and the how, in addition to the what, when, and where. Doing this allows for meaningful discussions and conversations and often eases the tension and anxiety around the consequences. We all need to be held accountable for our actions, however, we must fully support the process in getting there so that mistakes do not repeat themselves.

Parents are an important part of the process and the home-school connection needs to remain strong in order to move forward and show a united front. We all want the exact same thing for our students…for them to continue to grow and flourish as they transition from childhood to adulthood as capable, talented, leaders of the future!