Volume XLII                              November 2020

No. 301

It’s A Marathon, Not A Sprint!

If leading during COVID-19 is like a marathon, then I want to know who the heck signed me up for this stupid race? Oh, that’s right…I did. Since I committed to run it, I will.  This whole idea of leading during the COVID-19 marathon, got me thinking about how I’ll feel at the end of this race. 

If you were to look at me, you would agree that there is no way I am built for marathon running. In addition, it wouldn’t take you long to realize I have no experience with running what so ever! I imagined myself with the T.V. reporter’s mic shoved in my sweaty, red, face while I explained how I got to the finish line against all odds. I’ve got “grit”, I’d say.  You see, I know what my brain needs to be healthy and marathons are really more about the mental challenge. I get 8 hours of sleep, eat brain food, drink lots of water, exercise and apply my breathing techniques to remain focused, calm, and efficient during times of high stress. Just like all of these other marathon runners, I have developed a support network. Completing the race is because of this teamwork, cheering, encouragement, and the knowledge that if I stumble or fall they will be there for me. There is no doubt there are some pretty funny things that happen on the day of the marathon. I get a real high from laughing out loud! The challenge of running a marathon has actually improved my thinking. I break down the distance, pace myself, and solve problems that come up along the route more efficiently and effectively. During the run, I reflect on what I’ve learned about myself and others and feel grateful for this experience.  When I focus on the others with me in this race, encourage them, and show my appreciation of them I feel less anxious. You see, everyone here has a reason they signed up for the marathon – an intention, a cause, a person. We all know our “why” for running and when it is hard and we want to quit we remind ourselves about this. 

I guess if leading during a COVID-19 is like a marathon, then I’ve got what it takes after all! I’ll be kind to myself when I miss training or eat a whole pizza by myself, or when I get frustrated and take it out on the other runners.  I’ll strive to focus on the positives when my worries creep in and tell me that I’m not built to be a marathon runner, that I won’t be able to finish the race, or will embarrass myself during the race. I’ll look around and see YOU and feel the comfort that I am not running alone. Thank you for committing to run this marathon with me. I'll see you at the finish line!

Pete Hall, https://www.fosteringresilientlearners.org/blog/2019/4/8/healthy

Call to Join the SAM Legislative Network 2021

Calling all SAM Members to Join the SAM Legislative Network 2021 (SAMLN21)! 

Are you interested in helping SAM promote our Advocacy Priorities in the 2021 Legislative Session?  How about joining the team of SAM members who are committed to communicate effectively about SAM legislative issues/bills and collecting input from your colleagues in your region to let your legislators know about appropriate stances on issues/bills during the session? 

Click HERE to see the description and responsibilities of the SAMLN21.  We need you to help with this important part of advocating for the students served in our schools! 

For a SAM member to join the SAMLN21 click HERE!

Please sign up to so we can ensure that education leaders’ voice is clearly heard in the 2021 Legislative session.

Once you sign up, the SAMLN21 will be formed and we will train together to make this a pleasant experience for you using the tools SAM is creating to communicate effectively during the Legislative session.

SAM Youth Endowment Now Open for Nominations

Nominations are open until March 2nd for the 2020-21 SAM Youth Endowment. The purpose of the School Administrators of Montana Youth Endowment is to make a positive impact on the youth of Montana by providing financial assistance to benefit children’s health, welfare, and/or education.

Awards to nominated recipients are given in April of each year and announced in the May SAM Bulletin. Emergency requests will be accepted and presented to the board on an as-requested basis made throughout the year.  

Additional information, nomination guidelines, and access to the 2020-21 SAM Youth Endowment Nomination Form can be found HERE. Please note that only SAM members can make the actual nomination.

Release of GREAT 2020

The MT-PEC partners have worked together to prepare GREAT 2020 - The Great Work of Montana's Public Schools, Volume VIII, released during MCEL in October. Please use the link to download and print copies for your use. Our hope is that you will use this publication to engage your community in the story about the great opportunities your schools provide for the students in your community. Now is a great time to tell your story of the rich and engaging environment your school provides for your community!