Some people teach you how to do a job. Others teach you the kind of person you want to become. Michelle was that person for me. I had the privilege of working with her at an after-school program, where she served as the site supervisor. Every day, I watched her lead with a calm confidence that never relied on fear or authority. Instead, she built relationships, listened first, and treated every child and every staff member with genuine respect. She had a way of making people feel seen, heard, and valued. Even during difficult moments, she approached challenges with patience, empathy, and grace. Without realizing it, she was teaching me what true leadership looks like.
Michelle helped me understand that leadership isn't about having all the answers or being the loudest voice in the room. It's about creating an environment where people feel supported enough to do their best work. She showed me that great leaders:
build trust before giving direction, remain calm during challenging moments,
lead by example, and never forget the human being behind the role. Those lessons have stayed with me throughout every leadership position I've held.
As I built TLTand developed my own leadership philosophy, I found myself returning to the example Michelle set years ago.
Whenever I ask myself, "What kind of leader do I want to be?" I think of the way she made people feel.
If I can create environments where educators feel even a fraction of the support, encouragement, and respect that she gave so naturally, then I know I'm leading in the right direction.
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