Different, Unscripted, and New

Todd Gordon

We finished up the school year yesterday. It was one to remember and unlike any other in my 36 years in education. It was a year that was obviously filled with challenges that were different, unscripted, and new, but we did it.

My theme this year was “Adjust, Adapt, and Overcome,” but isn’t that life every day anyway? A pandemic just added another layer to it.

We saw the best in people (and sometimes the worst), but I will always remember year 36 for what it taught me.
 

1. Keep looking forward, and make the most of every day and every opportunity.
    
2. Enjoy and appreciate each moment. Each moment is worth experiencing and learning from. Even the tough ones.
    
3. Keep the main thing the main thing. The main thing is the people you serve, lead, and come in contact with every day.
    
4. Show more love, grace, and compassion.
    
5. Adjust, Adapt, and Overcome.
    

What did this year teach you?

As I look back on year 36, I will choose to be thankful for what it taught me and grateful for the opportunities it gave me. It wasn’t always easy, but it was worth it.

Todd Gordon is the director of activities at Greene County Community Schools in Jefferson, Iowa. He has been in education for 36 years, serving as a teacher, coach, and administrator.