It was around this time last year that I found out I had been selected as a 2016 ASCD Emerging Leader. I am not sure I knew what was in store for me, but by the time I was at ASCD’s Leader to Leader Conference in July I realized the enormity of this honor. I also realized that my tribe had expanded.

Today I was selected for another honor, the end of a long and unexpected process. For months my Emerging Leader tribe has been behind me, fielding text messages, sending encouraging messages, sharing insight. Most importantly, they have believed in me and my abilities as an educator.

I hope one day I can repay the favor.