Reality . . . this morning is a huge does of reality.

Two weeks of sleeping just a little later, spending time with family and friends, and celebrating holiday traditions has abruptly come to an end. That alarm was like a bucket of cold water . . . it is back to our journey. It’s back to living our calling – to making a difference in the lives of children each and every day.

In my judgement, this is the hardest part of the school year. The time between early January and spring break is truly a grind. The cold weather, the holiday “let down”, and the long road ahead can become overwhelming. This is the time it is so important that we intentionally avoid BCD (Blame, Complain, Defend). Now is the time for our culture . . . for our values . . . to purposefully drive our behavior. We are stronger together; the work we do is too important for us to miss opportunities to shape the future.

Walt Disney said, “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.” As teachers, administrators, bus drivers, and support staff we achieve the impossible every day. We ask you – in your 20 square feet – to Stand up & Own it, to Think we not me, and to live with a Passion for Growth.

Our work is difficult; we will face adversity and challenges. What is important is that we will stay focused, we continue to learn and improve, and we make the impossible, possible. We teach students to read, we guide students to reach higher, and we prepare students to be successful adults.

Our work isn’t easy; it’s too important to be easy. You have been chosen, trained, and empowered to shape the future for our students. You are the best of the best. Together, as a team, we get to accomplish the seemingly impossible.

Hilliard’s a great place to work and learn – let’s do the impossible together.