President’s Column
As we begin a new school year, I am filled with gratitude, optimism, and excitement for what lies ahead. Every August brings a fresh opportunity to turn the page, embrace new possibilities, and write the next chapter in our leadership journey. This year, my theme is “Once Upon a New Chapter.”
As principals and school leaders, we know that every school has a story. Each day, we help shape that story through the decisions we make, the relationships we build, and the culture we create. While there are many factors outside our control—changing policies, public discourse, staffing challenges, and unexpected obstacles—we have tremendous influence over what happens within the walls of our schools.
We get to choose the story.
We choose how we greet students each morning. We choose how we support teachers when they face challenges. We choose how we respond when things do not go as planned. Most importantly, we choose the culture we cultivate and the joy we bring to our work.
Choosing joy does not mean ignoring difficulties. It means recognizing that joy can exist alongside hard work, uncertainty, and even adversity. Joy is found in celebrating student growth, encouraging a first-year teacher, witnessing a breakthrough moment, or watching a school community come together around a shared purpose. These moments remind us why we entered this profession in the first place.
As educational leaders, our work matters deeply. Every conversation, every decision, and every act of service has the potential to impact lives far beyond the current school year. The environments we create influence students, families, teachers, and communities in lasting ways. That is both a tremendous responsibility and an incredible privilege.
My hope for this year is that we embrace the opportunity to author our best chapter yet—not because everything will be easy, but because we will lead with purpose, resilience, and joy. Let us focus on what we can control. Let us celebrate one another. Let us remember that our presence matters and that our leadership sets the tone for those we serve.
Thank you for the work you do each day on behalf of students and educators across Texas. Together, we will continue writing stories of hope, excellence, and impact.
Here’s to a new year, a fresh chapter, and the opportunity to make it our best one yet.
Stephanie Gomez is an Assistant Principal in Boerne ISD.
What I am Reading: Re-reading Theo of Golden this summer has revealed depths in the story I missed the first time around. It is rare for a book to stay with me long after the final page, but this one has become an all-time favorite.
At its heart, the story is a profound lesson in love, leadership, and human connection. Theo embodies the ideal leader: someone who acts not for applause but in favor of authentic connection. He teaches us that being truly present—whether as a leader, parent, or spouse—is an act of courage in a world full of distractions.
Theo of Golden transcends the typical novel. It is a masterpiece in grace, curiosity, and love. It compels you to recognize that everyone you encounter carries a story worth hearing and that small, intentional gestures can create ripples of impact. I encourage you to pick up this book; let Theo’s calm presence and acts of generosity inspire you to reframe how you lead and connect with the world around you.
Happy Reading!
