December 3rd, 2013
With the beginning of December, I find myself reflecting back on the past year. As educators, we are usually planning many months in advance and looking forward to what happens next so we can thoughtfully prepare. I find it important to pause and reflect, look back on where I’ve been and celebrate successes while also looking at my areas for growth.
Tuesday, December 3rd, is the second annual National Day of Giving. A chance for SRI and other nonprofit organizations to highlight the work they are doing, and to encourage philanthropy during a season that often gets overrun by consumerism. In honor of this National Day of Giving, and my reflections on the year, I’d like to share five reasons I am proud to work for the School Reform Initiative.
- I’m proud that we are an organization with a Board of Directors that is elected by our affiliates. Having affiliates that care enough about the work of SRI to stand for election is inspiring. Having affiliates that care enough about the future of SRI to nominate their colleagues and vote ensures our future. We currently have eight amazing candidates standing for election – if you haven’t voted yet, please do before December 13th. This is an important part of our work together!
- I’m proud that as a community, we are expected to have difficult conversations, including conversations about race and equity. Sometimes, these conversations make me feel uncomfortable because I realize how much I don’t know. I deeply value our collaborative and supportive community that makes it possible to grow in the discomfort.
- I’m proud of our annual Winter Meeting where all are welcome. Whether you are new to the work or very experienced, we make it possible for everyone to engage in challenging learning as colleagues. Our conference doesn’t look like other conferences, and that uniqueness is a highlight of SRI.
- I’m proud that we have a community that steps up to support one another. Because of the generosity of the SRI community, we were able to award a record number of Winter Meeting scholarships – helping make Winter Meeting accessible for 31 educators who may not otherwise have the opportunity.
- I’m proud that we are working to transform schools for all students. Although challenging, ambitious, and complex with no single solution, we continue to strive to realize our mission.
On this National Day of Giving, please consider a year-end tax-deductible donation to SRI. While our support comes largely from foundation sources, the individual gifts from colleagues and friends who share our mission, and value the goals of SRI, demonstrate that this work matters to lots of people. Your contribution to SRI allows us to continue to support the work and conversations that make a difference in our schools and communities. Thank you for your ongoing support of SRI and for allowing me to be a part of this significant work we do together.
With gratitude,
P.S. If you are proud of the work of SRI, please help us widen our circle of supporters by forwarding this email to your friends and family.
