As the final school bells ring, and report cards are signed off, I want to take a moment to simply say thank you.

What a year it has been.

I have been truly grateful to travel to so many districts this year, and to meet so many of you in your 'natural habitat'. I have seen the work you are doing, and I am inspired by how you have shown up every day with compassion, creativity, and strength — even when your to-do list was longer than a Costco receipt, and the coffee machine was on the fritz, you navigated the challenging conversations and the ongoing fail-to-fill issues. You led through curriculum changes, staffing shortages, surprise fire drills, and the joys of lice season (which seems to last longer and longer each year!). Through it all, you have remained committed to your schools, your students, and your communities.

Let’s be honest — this year didn’t come with a manual. But somehow, you found a way to lead with heart, solve problems with grace, and laugh through the chaos (even if it was a tired chuckle in the photocopy room). That is the magic of school leadership in BC: we make it work, even when the road is bumpy and filled with unavoidable potholes… and we do it while keeping a keen focus on what matters most: our students, families, and communities.

So now, it’s your time.

I hope the weeks ahead bring you sunshine, shady patios, long trails, and slow mornings. I hope there are moments of pure, unscheduled joy: lake swims, hikes in the mountains, long runs, backyard BBQ's, and naps that turn into a full REM cycle. Whether you are camping with the kids, walking the beach, traveling to see loved ones, or just reading a book with no one asking, “where’s my lunch?” — may this time fill your cup.

You have earned every moment of rest. Every breath of fresh air. Every scoop of ice cream.

For myself, I am looking forward to supporting our new incoming leaders when we meet at Foundations for New School Leaders at UBC through the first week of July. I will do some 'tidying up' of my own there, reflecting on the past year and planning for the one ahead. And then I will hit the trails, read my books, and catch up with friends and family. When September arrives, when the excitement (and chaos!) begins again, know that your Association is walking alongside you, proud of the work you do and ready to support you every step of the way.

From all of us at the BCPVPA, have a wonderful summer. Be well, be safe, and don’t forget: sunscreen, good books, water, and connection are your best friends.