After nearly two decades in public education as an alternative high school teacher, assistant principal, and principal, I took the plunge and walked away. Why? Because I believed I could make an even bigger impact outside the walls of conventional education. The other reason is for another time; I am trying to stay positive!

Now, let me be clear—leaving was terrifying. People doubted me; some even hoped I’d fail and come crawling back to my old job. Spoiler alert: that didn’t happen. In just one year, I’ve connected with educators and schools nationwide, bringing new ideas to the table. But I never lost sight of where I started. I still remember the early years: that cocky twenty-something year old teacher who thought she had it all figured out. (Spoiler #2: I didn’t know a damn thing.) Those years shaped who I am, and as a leader, I always kept the teacher's perspective in mind. It’s critical to never forget where you came from.

Here’s the thing that many don’t know about me: I’ve always had an insane work ethic. I live and breathe education. But when I was 33, in the middle of teaching my alternative students, I had a stroke. Yes, a stroke, in the middle of class.

I was rushed to the hospital, where the doctors scratched their heads. Physically, I was in great shape—yoga three times a week, running, eating right. But my stress level? Through the roof. And that was the cause. Stress can manifest in ways you can’t see on the surface, and I ignored the warning signs because I thought my relentless work ethic made me stronger. Spoiler #3: It didn’t.

Why share this story?

To remind you—and myself—that we only get one life and one shot. We often sacrifice birthdays, family dinners, weddings, and just simple moments with friends for our careers. I’ve done it all in the name of "the greater good." My schools transformed from some of the worst places, to schools that truly make a difference, and people are still talking about the positive changes today. But at what cost? Was it worth it? I honestly don’t know. This photo below is from ONE YEAR ago when I surprised my family with tickets to Farm Aid so they could see Willie Nelson in concert. I will NEVER regret this decision, and this same trip is when TUP was born, in the car heading to Indiana.

I believe with my whole heart that teachers and principals are world-changers. The work we do is critical—it’s why I live for education. But we can’t lose sight of what truly matters: family, loved ones, and, yes, yourself. Balance is key, and too often, we ignore that.

So here’s my challenge to you: take a long look in the mirror. Are you balancing? Are you saying yes to yourself? Or are you constantly pouring from an empty cup? Remember, saying yes to yourself means you can say no to something else—without even saying no.

As I reflect on another trip around the sun, my birthday wish for all of you is simple: say YES to yourself. Do something for YOU today or this weekend, something you love. Because we’re not just here to change the world—we’re here to live in it too.

Your school needs you, but so do the people and things that make life worth living.

Big Love,
​Leigh