Last week, we talked about seeing the people inside our systems.
This week, I want to move the conversation forward.
For more than 25 years, I have worked alongside educators who carry the daily responsibility of teaching, leading, solving problems, supporting students, responding to families, and encouraging their colleagues.
They are often the people supporting everybody else.
But who supports them?
As educational leaders, we provide resources, professional development, guidance, time, and encouragement. We may leave believing we have supported our staff because we provided something.
But providing support and meeting a need are not always the same thing.
Imagine giving everyone the same-size jacket.
It may fit one person perfectly. It may hang loosely on someone else. Another person may not be able to button it at all.
The jacket was provided.
But did it fit?
That is the question I want educational leaders to consider—not only whether support was offered, but whether it was useful to the person expected to receive it.
One educator may need clearer direction. Another may need a model of what effective practice looks like. Someone else may need targeted feedback, additional resources, or the opportunity to take the lead.
Providing different support does not mean lowering expectations.
I believe in clear expectations, accountability, and results.
But if we expect people to meet the standard, we must also pay attention to whether the support we provide helps them get there.
This question sits at the heart of the H.O.L.D. Framework:
Does the support fit the person, the need, and the moment?
Because support is not simply what we provide.
Support is what the person can actually use.
Around the Table
Are you providing support because it is available—or because it fits the need?
A Thought to Purpose Challenge
Think about one person or team you currently support.
Ask yourself:
Is the support I am providing helping them move forward?
Next Tuesday, we will take this conversation one step further and talk about what leaders need to notice before deciding what support to offer.
Until then…
Keep creating. Keep believing. Keep living with purpose.
— Kim M. Waller Founder/CEO, More Than Just A Thought LLC Where Creativity Meets Purpose