Dena Fisher’s Credo
Early Childhood Director
The journey that you are about to embark on will be one that is life-changing. The students,
staff, and families that you are about to serve deserve someone that leads from the heart, with
compassion, empathy, and sensitivity. Every choice and decision you will make must come
from a mind with trauma-sensitivity at the forefront. While this sounds like an easy process, I
assure you it is not. You will be questioned by others on why you made a particular choice
regarding a child as opposed to another one. Stand firm in your decisions. Be clear and
transparent. Sometimes the quickest solutions are not always the more equitable ones. Students
must remain protected in our school system; therefore, they must be present to learn and grow,
even when displaying the most unpleasant behaviors. Simply put, you must be the voice
advocating for what is right, even when you stand alone.
As a leader, it is imperative to be mindful. Staff will look up to you as you lead, so remember to
do what you say. Say it, mean it, do it. Do not drive with empty words, as others will quickly
realize it. Be compassionate to yourself and others. People will make mistakes, yourself
included, and as long as you grow from these mistakes, that is what matters. We are all human,
and if we are always acting from the heart, compassion, and kindness to yourself and others is
needed. Treat these kids as you would want someone to treat your daughter, niece, grandbaby,
nephew, etc. Show them warmth and demand high-expectations from them. Students will rise to
the occasion. Allow the students to take risks, as that’s how students learn. Embrace their
mistakes too. Sometimes the wrong answer can lead to higher outcomes.
Get to know the staff and students beyond the basics. You will encounter students, staff, and
families that may be hesitant to trust you. Build that trust. Be authentic and let others know
your beliefs. It is not enough to simply say them, however, walk-in those beliefs daily. Ask
about your staff. Seek what they know and use them to help the school. Build on their strengths,
this is the key. With them, you will be able to accomplish and succeed throughout the year.
Listen to them when they speak, turn off that voice in your head that is telling you about your
never-ending to-do list and listen. This is the best-kept secret!
Finally, always remember the why. On the long days, take care of yourself so that you can start
fresh tomorrow. Stay calm on those hard days and remain focused on what you came here to do,
high-quality education for all children. Never waver on that stance, because the students need
you to be that voice always advocating for them. In return, you will receive the best present
anyone can give you. At the end of the year, your team and students overcame the struggles, and
this is the time to be boastful. You were resilient and successful! You made a difference!
Thank you for loving my babies!
