I was recently asked to write a reflection and advice for fellow school principals on the topic of transitioning away from the principalship…with a focus on encouragement and not “get out while you can,” which is what so many of us hear from society. Serve until you can’t. Make it on your terms.
As middle school principals, we have a front seat for transitions. It’s our every day…voices, moods, identities, and styles are liable to change with our students…sometimes that change happens from the first bell to the last! When they do, we must take it as it comes and help them through the trying adolescent years. But what about our own transitions? Who helps us?
Not long ago, I made the transition out of the middle school principalship…something our friend Derek Wheaton calls becoming “rewired.” It may not be a puberty-enhanced mood swing during a cafeteria table argument, but transitioning away from one of the greatest and hardest jobs in the world is an emotional roller coaster that requires careful thought, planning, and support.
Our hearts as educators are too full of love and leadership and capability not to serve. It’s who we are. Embrace it! Your transition could be to another building, back to a classroom, to a district position, or maybe stepping off the front lines. I will always counsel careful consideration because kids and community need what you have. Wherever your call comes from, or your journey leads, think carefully about the important service you do and how you can best manifest those skills.
My advice to my educator peers has always been, “Serve where you are until you can’t, then find somewhere else to serve.” Just don’t do it out of frustration! The job is harder than most, and some days just plain impossible. You’ve earned this role as Principal from years of doing hard things. Your people need you, even when they’re sometimes part of what makes the work hard! But know that people everywhere need leaders like you if you’re seeking change. Plan carefully and privately as you determine your next move. Doing your homework about the next role you take will not only give you perspective of what other buildings, districts, or jobs exist, it will also buy you time so that you’re not transitioning due to circumstance but due to your choice and your direction. Don’t run away from something; run to something.
Finally, keep your circle of support small and be open with them in confidence. Process what you’re feeling, parsing out what is real and what is emotion. Being tired is different than being burnt out. The grass is always greener, but sometimes just different grass is what will help you grow to your next level. Honestly, share with your people what you’re feeling and experiencing. Heed the input and observations of people who know your heart well. Trust your support system and trust yourself.
After many years leading classrooms and buildings, my time came for transition, and the process was as awkward as a middle schooler trying to blend across friend groups before the morning bell. Through careful thought, extensive planning, and support from my inner circle, especially Paul, I’ve chosen to remain a dues-paying MEMSPA member, still supporting educators in a “rewired” capacity, and here to coach or listen to any of you in life transitions, who needs to talk with someone who gets it.