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Who tapped you on the shoulder and encouraged you to lead? That’s a great question and one we constantly remind ourselves and our members. We all landed in this incredibly important and crucial role in the system because of the gentle or not-so-gentle nudge of someone in our lives. Inspiration might also have come from a great example or not-so-great example. When I look back at my career path, I see a wide variety of faces who both inspired and encouraged me to lead. From people in my inner circle of family and friends, to school leaders in my early days of teaching, to inspirational superintendents, the influences are far and wide. It’s hard for me to pinpoint one person in particular because everyone played a role in pushing me to take that next impactful step.

As we look to wrap up a great National Principals Month, I just wanted to remind you that we celebrate and support you every day, not just in October. The work you do every day for students, staff, and your school communities is immeasurable and should be recognized throughout the year.

It's National Principals Month, and longtime members know what that means. Join us on social media or follow along in your email for our weekly prompts. Each week, we pick some of our favorites to highlight. This week, our prompt was, "Imagine you are writing a book about your leadership journey. What would be the title of the first chapter?"

National Principals Month is a simple way of bringing much-needed attention to the work and impact of your leadership. But, is a month-long celebration enough? No way. One month doesn’t do you or your leadership any justice. Through their research, The Wallace Foundation consistently reaffirms the important role school principals play not just in student achievement, but in establishing and sustaining school culture. Effective and consistent leadership has an immeasurable impact on students, staffulty, and the entire school community. At 51������, we are not only celebrating National Principals Month throughout October, but we are also calling this year “The Year of the Principal.” We believe there has never been a more important time in educational history than right now to call attention to the plight of our school leaders.

October is National Principals Month, but you might not be feeling much love lately. This is not an easy time to be a principal. We've always said the job was incredibly challenging but the most rewarding job in the world. The work you've done just to open the doors this year for kids to be back is nothing short of inspirational. Your leadership matters now more than ever, and every...single...day. Thank you for everything you do for your students, staff, and communities. Each and every day, we celebrate you. This month especially, remember you are truly a super star.