As the Year Wraps Up, Reflect on One Question Worth Asking…

Before You Unplug: Reflect, Realign, and Recommit

By Jim Best, The Leader Network

Summer’s almost here. For school leaders, it’s a season of sandals and strategy, slower mornings and long-range planning. It’s also one of the few natural moments we get to pause—to step back, reflect, and ask: What’s next?

But your next steps don’t belong to you alone.

They belong to your team. They belong to your board. They belong to the people you lead and serve.

So before summer takes hold, take a moment to reflect—not just on what got done, but on where you're headed together.

Here are three reminders as you prepare for the year ahead:

1. Summer is quiet—but strategic. Take advantage of the calm to clarify your real priorities.
   

2. People need clarity more than a calendar. Make sure everyone understands the why behind the plan—not just the what.
   

3. Reflection is leadership. Taking time to align builds trust, sets direction, and ensures you’re leading with intention.

If you’re ready to build trust, align priorities, and head into next year with clarity—we’re here to help.

Explore our School Leadership Retreats & Board Workshops Services

TheLeaderNetwork specializes in engaging, actionable team-building and governance sessions that move your school forward.

Let’s make this summer count.

With admiration and in partnership,

Jim Best, Co-Founder, The Leader Network

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