Challenges, Generosity, and Progress

Last night, I went to a meeting of the Education Foundation. I had the opportunity to share with them some of the challenges the libraries in our district face as well as presenting my vision and the plan to make that a reality.  I shared with them a brief presentation on some of the issues, the data, and where we stand. 

Afterward, I asked for their support moving forward with updating the libraries.  

One of the most difficult part of this process is asking for help. 

I am a fixer. 
I like helping people. 
I love solving problems. 
I love to make things work. 

And it is difficult knowing that I can't solve this. 

I have ideas and plans and a vision, but it takes partnerships. And it takes money. 

A big part of working in education is doing more with less.  The perpetual idea that "there is no money for _____, so make a work-around" is disheartening.  It can feel isolating and desperate at times.

But the thing is, people who are not in education (or not entirely in it) often do want to help,  but have no idea how. They see what is happening in schools and wish there were something that could be done. They too feel isolated from the issues.

Which is why connections can be so powerful. 

When I spoke with the Ed Foundation, I was very frank. I was honest about where we are and what we need. 

And I asked for money. Doing so is very very difficult.  I asked for a fairly large amount (in my opinion), though it is, as I told them, the tip of the tip of the iceberg.

They listened. They asked questions. They saw the need and felt that connection. They wanted to help. 

They gave the libraries more money than I asked for, and indicated they would make such a contribution in years to come.  

I am a proudly stoic person, but I cried as I drove home.  
I cried because of the resources the kids will get. 
I cried because of the hope that the Ed Foundation's generosity brought. 
I cried because there are people in the community who really, genuinely care about our kids, and I wish every single kid knew that.  
Many don't.
But they will. 
They will know it (whether they realize it or not) when they hold new books in their hands. 
They will see it.  

And it is moments like these that I feel must be a sea change.  We are on the move.  It is not going to happen overnight, but we are on the move.  
And the generosity of the Ed Foundation brings progress, hope, and a path. 

Rats, I think I have some dust in my eye. Again.