Lillian Brinkley, who started her career as a principal 40 years ago in Virginia, has attended every NAESP annual conference since, and even though she’s retired now, she keeps coming. Why? Just listen to Lillian:
1. It’s like going to a spa. Without fail, these few days refocused, energized, and encouraged me to continue to look for ways to improve my practice, my school, and my teachers.
2. I gained new ideas for every area of the principalship from the best and the brightest nationwide.
3. I learn what works and what doesn’t. The opportunities to share and get ideas from fellow principals are endless. It’s professional development—in real time!
4. I became involved in NAESP’s governance and decision-making structure of the organization. These experiences fueled my desire to become an officer in the Association and so serve the entire profession, a goal fulfilled when I was elected president of the Association!
5. I have received over 40 years of the best leadership development available anywhere.
6. Through opportunities to interact with my colleagues nationwide and from other countries, I have broadened my horizons. The networkin
g opportunities are tremendous.
7. The time away from my school gave me a chance to step back and reflect on my job—invaluable in staying focused, informed, and committed!
8. The conference gave me a conduit for me to make presentations, serve as a facilitator and evaluator, and participate in many focus groups.
9. I have listened to some of the greatest, most knowledgeable speakers in the world and interacted with some of the best researchers and authors. These career- and life-changing experiences are priceless.
10. The conference is a reunion of kindred spirits—friends and colleagues who share my passion for the profession and more importantly, for the children of this nation. I gained an extended family I relied on every day of my career—and still do!
Take it from me—you’ll invest two days, but you’ll reap rewards that last your whole career!
See you in Seattle!
Post new comment