Leading with Heart: A Conversation with Cline’s New Leadership

In this episode of Friendswood ISD’s #ThePodcast, we sit down with Cline Elementary Principal Julianne McCarty and Assistant Principal Sarah Russell as they share their personal journeys in education and their vision for the school. They discuss key priorities for the year, the importance of fostering a positive school culture and engaging with parents and the community to ensure the well-being of every student. Tune in for insights into decision-making and the inspiring work happening at Cline Elementary, showcasing their commitment to supporting students and staff.

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Speaker 1 Julianne, when we were at the facility showcase for the High School of the Bond projects. Speaker 2 I was like, Oh my gosh, I saw your daughter, like performing with choir. And it's just so crazy that she's in high school. I know, I know. She's so crazy to see this happen. Speaker 3 It's just been amazing to watch her grow up here and go through this awesome. Speaker 1 Yeah. And she did. Speaker 4 Phenomenal. Like, that choir performance was it was amazing. Speaker 1 I loved the song choice. Everything was so cute. It was so it was part of their fall show, right? Speaker 3 Yes. And she would. Speaker 2 She's going to be so embarrassing. Who are you talking about her right now? You're going to be in. Speaker 5 Big trouble, Miss McCurdy. Speaker 2 Somebody's in big trouble. Thanks, y'all. She Yes, it is. It's. It's like her gift. Speaker 3 And she found her thing. And so I'm grateful to her junior high choir teacher. That is the one that. So Rod and Laura Rokita, she is amazing. Yes. And I'm really encouraged that. And I actually spent extra morning tutoring hours when she didn't know how to read. And so that love happened there. Speaker 2 No. Yeah. Speaker 1 And you have a son. Speaker 2 I do. Speaker 3 I'm a first grader. Speaker 2 So a little bit of gap there. Speaker 3 Junior and a first grader. And Luke is 11 life. He still thinks I'm cool. I don't know how long that's going to last. Speaker 2 Forever I hope. I know. Like he still. Speaker 3 Now it's like, can I have my morning. Speaker 2 Kiss before you go off to the cafeteria? Speaker 3 And he's like, Mom, can we just. Speaker 2 Come over here? Hurry up. Speaker 3 You know? So he's it's, you know, he's getting to that age, so I might not be very cool for much longer, but will. Speaker 4 You show him this episode? You put this on the car so your mom's on the radio? Yes. Speaker 2 Yes, this is true. You get to keep that some little. Yes, thank you. Speaker 5 Maybe not with Claire, but what's. Speaker 2 Your first year? Speaker 1 No. Now, Sarah, obviously all our big basketball family, huh? Speaker 5 We all are. We are. It's one of the reasons that we moved to Friendswood. We are very excited to be in the community. Speaker 1 Yeah, and remind you, was it two, three years ago? They all came. Speaker 5 We came last year. Speaker 1 Last year was your Last year. Speaker 5 Was our first year, Yes. Speaker 1 Because I still remember you all showing up to the board meeting when your husband was named the head coach. And I think. Weren't you all in Mustang Blue? Speaker 5 We are. We are. We we played Mustang. Speaker 2 We're wearing Mustang today. Speaker 1 Absolutely loved that. Let me tell you right now, like as soon as he's all that, he's like, good hire no is awesome. Well yeah lots of ties to to Friendswood and we're just excited to have y'all here so with that welcome to season four episode five of Friendswood I Estes the podcast with Kelsey goals. Speaker 4 And Sophia Army tour. Speaker 1 We're excited to have you join us today as we dive into all things I feisty share update stories and insights from around our districts. Whether you're a student, parent, teacher or community member, we are so glad you're tuning in. Today we are joined by Klein Elementary Principal Julianne McCarty and Assistant Principal Sarah Russell. Unknown Thank you all. You lost me here. Speaker 2 Yes. Thanks for the. Speaker 5 Opportunity. Speaker 1 We're excited. And you're not new to the whole podcast thing because Klein has an awesome podcast setup, right? Speaker 2 We do. Speaker 3 We have a podcasting room in the new building. And so kids go in and use it to record their book reviews. And. Speaker 2 You know, occasionally my daughter goes there to sing. Yeah. Speaker 1 We love like we've actually talked about that with how cute that the kids are familiar with the equipment. Like, it would be precious to have a couple of Klein kiddos on or even us go to them sometime and publish it through. Feisty. Speaker 2 It would just be so adorable. Yeah, you should set that up. They would love a. Speaker 4 Chance to get to the podcast. Remember their story on demand? Speaker 1 I'm sure. I'm sure in of course I'll do like greenscreen and I mean, there's like lots of. Speaker 3 Amazing things for those. Speaker 2 Kids. Speaker 1 But all that said, they should be pros today. So hold them to a high standard. Speaker 2 No pressure. Speaker 1 Well, Julianne, you've been with Klein for a while. First of first, as a teacher, I think actually when I started, you were a teacher and you were named the assistant principal and now you're the principal. So how has this transition felt for you professionally, personally, all the above. Speaker 3 Oh, kinds of peace in my heart. I mean, it's goodness. I've been this will be my 17th year in education. And Klein has 14 of those, I think maybe not that long, but it's been a lot. And I started as a Klein parent first, so I just came to a steam day and volunteered as a parent was not working for AFIC. Speaker 3 And now it's like this place is there is something different here. Like it just feels different. Speaker 2 Everybody's happy and all the all of the office. Speaker 3 Staff and all the teachers. And so I knew I wanted to be a part of that. You know, my husband said, there is no way you're going to. Speaker 2 Die like, you know, go ahead. Go ahead and apply. And no, I think. Speaker 3 I was the one saying no way. And he was like, just apply like you're we live a couple blocks from the school, so I did and didn't. Speaker 2 Get it the first time. Speaker 3 But I applied again the next year and got on as a third grade teacher. So I was a team. We our team was 13 at that time was huge. And then we split off when Song and Klein had a split a few years after that, and then I arranged a third grade teacher for many years. There a lot of fond memories in that old building. Speaker 3 Yeah. Speaker 2 Yes. Speaker 1 Oh, I know. I think it. Klein has always been special, you know. Of course you have this beautiful new building, and it's easy to talk about that. But there was magic in that old one as well. Speaker 3 Yes, definitely. Speaker 1 Feel for sure. And and I think one thing that always stands out to me about you is I think really when you were named AP that first day of school, that first year. AP dressing up, and I don't know that Mr. Klein was thrilled about that. Speaker 2 Yes, I brought him out of his cell. That that's what he will say for sure. Speaker 3 He was not he didn't enjoy dressing up. And I made him for every occasion the first. Speaker 2 Day of every. Speaker 3 School year. And we're going to dress up for Halloween and any other time in between that I really feel. Speaker 2 Yes. Yeah. Oh, yes, he did it. Speaker 1 And he is let me like, love him. He was the most awkward when we would do fine. Like videos. Speaker 2 Of Yes. Speaker 1 Dancing if you can even get him to dance. No. And you were just hilarious. Like. Speaker 2 Loosen up. Yeah. Yeah. You were just like the goofy one. Then he's over there, like, beet red. Yeah. Awesome. So good. It was so good. Speaker 1 So that will forever be a memory of just you are in your element in that. And then he was like, Absolutely. Well, also, Sarah, you made the jump from classroom teacher to assistant principal. Now, how has this shift impacted your approach to leadership decision making? How's it felt. Speaker 5 Overall? Oh, sure. Like you said earlier, it's not necessarily about the places, about the people. And so being able to serve as a teacher at Klein, as it was just such a special opportunity to to get to make that move and to get to work with the people and already have some of those relationships established. And it's just been an honor and a privilege so far. Speaker 2 She's got the street cred to like. Speaker 3 Having been a teacher there and then, you know, having colleagues and then moving into this role. She's doing a beautiful job, too, of the transition because it's hard it's hard to be a colleague and then someone's boss and she's done it beautifully. She's just very graceful. Speaker 1 And I remember kind of when you're going through that hiring process, I remember hearing that from people that there's this teacher that everyone really loves, who we're rooting for, that, like other teachers would say this. And so anyway, it was exciting whenever you were named for sure. Now, do you feel like having been teachers yourselves, I guess, created a different perspective level of empathy for your for your teachers now? Speaker 5 Absolutely, it has. And, you know, not just being an educator but being a parent too. Yeah, it creates that that empathy that we we know what you're going through and we're all here for the kids. We're all a team working together. And so it really it really builds that. Like I said earlier, that relationship in that piece, we're able to mesh together and and do it together. Speaker 4 Both of you guys get both sides of the coin and all of the situations. So you're really also there for the parents. Also. Speaker 3 It always helps when I. Speaker 2 Start a phone call. Speaker 3 You know, with some maybe some hard information. You know, I received this phone call myself like, no judgment. Speaker 2 Has I have been a parent receiving. Speaker 3 A, you know, a hard phone call from the office. So. Oh, Claire would hate me saying that to you. Speaker 2 But I just gave away that. It was clear. And I know all the dirty laundry. No, but that does it creates a level of. Speaker 3 You're on the same plane. Feel like I'm not. There's no judgment here. Kids make mistakes and we just help them through that. We guide them through it and teach them the life lessons. And and that's the beautiful part of. Speaker 2 Our job is those cute conversations we have in the office with, okay, what do you think you should have done instead? Yeah. Speaker 3 This is where that's where the growth happens. Speaker 1 Absolutely. And it's like if you are able to have those conversations, teach those lessons early on, you know, maybe maybe we don't have so many problems as an adult. But it's it's also that grace of, like I say this all time, we have so much grace for kids. We don't always have a lot of grace for adults, you know, to see them on a human level like they're they're living life for the first time, too. Speaker 1 Of course, we think because of years and experience that they should. Speaker 2 Probably. Speaker 1 Times they should know differently and to act differently than they are doing. Speaker 3 But everybody's got their own set of experiences. That's what I always say, right? There is summation of just their life experiences, and I am too. So we have to give each other grace because maybe we haven't lived through something or someone else's. Speaker 2 Shoes. Speaker 3 By it. Speaker 1 Yeah, right. And they may just be a an adult, an adult body, but a kid inside that like never fully grew up or, you know, was stunted in some way. And it's like just to be able to foster again. Some of that growth now is so pivotal. I think I am seeing that more and more as I get older and just working in education of just how pivotal childhood is and and preserving that innocence as long as possible. Speaker 1 I mean, it's just it's everything. Speaker 4 And you guys get them from that really early age. So it's I know that's a big. Yes, big role to fill but yes. Speaker 2 I'll do it. Speaker 1 Well, yeah. And I think that's important for for parents to know, too, is like you, your partner, you know, in this in this journey with our kiddo, we are so privileged and honored to be able to be trusted with their kids for so many hours each day. And you you do it. You do because you love children, and you're only ever trying to make the best decisions you can for kids. Speaker 1 Those hard conversations, the good ones. And you're celebrating all of the victories, like, yeah, you're in those moments with them. So it's it's a blessing to be able to serve the way that you do. Speaker 3 And a great job. Speaker 1 Yeah, And it's a hard job. It's a hard job. Speaker 2 I'm not going to lie. Yeah, it's hard. It's hardest thing I've ever done, but it's, it's the most rewarding. Speaker 5 Yeah, it's always it's all worth it. Speaker 1 So can you share a little bit about what led each of you into the field of education in the first place? Did you always know you wanted to be a teacher? What was your journey? Speaker 2 You know your man. Speaker 5 Growing up, I had an aunt that was in education and I can just remember her telling stories about her classes. And they weren't always the most exciting, inspiring stories, but they always had that piece. And I'm going and I she makes a difference in what she does. And I just knew I wanted to be like her. And so, yeah, that led me into that path. Speaker 3 I didn't have any family members that were teachers, but I had an older have an older sister and she would always play teacher with her stuffed animals in her room. So I thought, like, that's what you do. Speaker 2 And so I plays I played teacher. Speaker 3 With my stuffed animals in my room, and I asked Santa Claus for an overhead projector. Speaker 2 And got it. Do you believe that? Yes. Speaker 3 If anybody out there it is an overhead projector. And I would play teacher. Speaker 2 For. Speaker 3 Hours in my in my bedroom and then stick the bad stuffed animals in the hallway for time out. Speaker 2 And in the end, that's kind of where it all started. Yes. I just. Speaker 3 You know, it was following in her. Speaker 2 Footsteps. Speaker 3 But we both became teachers. And so it's it's been neat to watch each of our journeys and how we've supported each other through that. Speaker 2 So, yeah, I remember. Speaker 1 So, so I'm a twin, me, my twin sister, we would play like class with each other and one of our one of our favorite stories to go to. I remember like getting butterflies. Like I'd be so excited to go to the teacher supply store. Oh, I would tell. Speaker 2 I love that. So I didn't need any of it. I know, I know. I it's like all the cute little. Speaker 4 Things for. Speaker 2 Lessons. Like Dick were like, Well, we're pretty in our toy room, you know, like, I would just. Speaker 4 Want, like, the border, you know, they sell borders or, like, calendars or bulletin boards bag for those. Speaker 2 For no purpose. Yes, that's still around. Speaker 3 Yes. Lake Shore is a very magical place. Speaker 2 You should go. Speaker 1 Okay. I like it. We'll bring back and talk. Speaker 2 Sponsored by Lake Shore. But like. Oh, gosh, I'm sorry. Reach out to those of you that. Speaker 1 Would like to do this. Speaker 2 Specifically. No, it's awesome. Speaker 1 Yeah, it's it's so fun to, like, see those, like, environments and like, Oh, really? Our teachers do such a phenomenal job with the way that they decorate their classrooms, like, oh, my gosh. Speaker 2 So she's their second home. Speaker 1 Yeah, it really is. And they put in some work during the summer to do that. It's just love they do. Speaker 4 There's so many themed ones too. There is the Flamingo Room. I think there are lots of cozy lighting. Yeah, I just kind of like, can this be office? Speaker 1 All this? Like there's been a huge shift to in like flex seating. So like, there really is some just cool things happening in every classroom. So. Yeah, that's awesome. Well, okay, so outside of your your roles in education and some people may only know you professionally, what are what are some things personally that maybe some people would be surprised to know about you? Speaker 5 Well, I am You mentioned earlier my husband works at the high school, but all four of my children are students that are fiesty. So we are a family of Friendswood. Like you said, we bleed blue and I have to at kind one in kindergarten and one in second grade and then two at the junior high, one in sixth grade and one in eighth grade. Speaker 5 So we are we are all Friendswood. Speaker 2 No, go, go, go. Yeah, we did see people Yeah. Speaker 5 We have very involved in sports from flag football to tackle football basketball all across country. Speaker 1 All the things, you name it. Speaker 2 I mean it's my family you. Speaker 1 Live in like things outside of work is what. Speaker 2 You're telling us. Okay. Yes. Speaker 5 Bring on the leggings and the messy buns. Speaker 2 Yes. I think I'm a big fan of those. I do. You. What about you? You know, nothing too terribly like interesting. I love. Speaker 3 Reading and shopping and my plants in the back yard are like my therapy and goodness, what. Speaker 2 Else to go? Don't forget, they keep me busy baking or baking. I do love. Speaker 3 Bringing treats to work. Speaker 2 Yes. What's your specialty? You can get a lot. Speaker 3 Like you can make some good connections with some cookies now. Speaker 2 Okay? For sure. Speaker 3 Especially homemade like. Yes. Speaker 2 You to your. Speaker 4 Client. I think this Christmas season for some of those cookies. Speaker 1 You know, now we're willing to connect. Speaker 2 If I'm willing to connect with you, I promise I do that soon. Speaker 4 To get Baker, But Kelsey's a really good baker. Speaker 1 I love to. I love to cook, I love to bake. So I definitely relate on that level. And I love I love the process of making things from scratch. Like, I think it's fascinating. Speaker 2 Oh, I can't do that. You know how we get all that wrong? Speaker 3 I can follow a recipe now. Speaker 4 But I have Betty Crocker box. That's the level I'm at. Yeah. Speaker 1 Sure. Speaker 2 Yes. We all start somewhere. Yeah. Speaker 1 We didn't say we need to give Sophia a lesson in cooking culinary basic, right? Speaker 4 Yeah, very. Maybe a little more than the basics, but, yeah. Speaker 1 Easy-Bake Oven level starting, right? Speaker 2 Okay, I'm with you. I think Santa. Okay. Speaker 4 So you guys have to make a lot of decisions, important decisions that kind of falls on y'all. For both of you, how do you think your previous role as assistant principal, as a teacher kind of prepares you for the decision you have to make today? Speaker 3 Can I say I mean, when you're a teacher and you feel supported by your mean, that's the main thing. And so I always want to think first what's best for kids. You know, my decision is, is like, that's why we're here. That's the sole reason we're here. So it might not be popular opinion, it might not be popular with teachers or parents or but what is best for kids in that moment is always where I start. Speaker 3 My very next thing is, if I were a teacher and remembering back to when I was a teacher, how would this decision impact me? Or how would it feel knowing that my administrator just went a certain way on something? And so many times that requires just, you know, circling back and going, Hey, I just want you to understand my thinking behind this, because sometimes that can feel personal to them or it can feel like, you know, I don't know why you made that decision. Speaker 3 And so having that open line of communication with them is important. So I can say this is what I was thinking and these were all the things that I was faced with. And so I went this way with a decision, Sure. But definitely being a teacher at the elementary level especially gives a good perspective as well as being a parent of an elementary student. Speaker 4 So I think that clarity behind your thought process goes so far with that. And like in any facet of life, I. Speaker 1 Think transparency in general I think is huge. Speaker 5 And like Jillian said, it's every decision we make as kids. Kids first. Yeah, all the time. No matter what. Being new in this role, there have been several, probably more than several situations where I've had to reach out and get help. Hey, Jillian, what would you do with this? Reaching out to a different mentor and our district staff here at Friendswood has just been amazing and supportive and just knowing that they have our back and whatever decision that we make and keeping kids at the forefront of those decisions has been it's been a blessing to know that, to know. Speaker 1 Just curious. And I love I love your answers. I completely agree. I think kids should always be first. Like that is like the number. That's why we do what we do, right? We do everything for kids. As far as teachers, what are from just us former teachers, what do you think are the main things that teachers need from their administrators? Speaker 3 They they need to feel like like work needs to be a place where they want to get up and go every day. So we need to be fun. It needs to be and needs a feel like a family. So creating conditions for that on their team because that's really their small bubble, right? Is their team of other teachers. Speaker 3 And then as a faculty to feel like a family. And so in and you do that by of course, like what do families do? Speaker 2 They eat together. They're silly together. So play games together. Games. It's important to. Speaker 3 Laugh like that's when you bond with people is when you just sit with them and share a meal or crack up laughing, or you've got inside jokes or. Speaker 2 You hide plastic roaches in. There is a sorry story. So anyway, those. Speaker 3 Are the things that create that family feel that I think is really important to teachers and what they need from an administrator. Because when the when that hard times come, they ultimately remember, Well, I know your heart. I mean, I know who you are as a person, and I know that you wouldn't have done that, you know, with with ill intent, because we've we've set those conditions over the years. Speaker 4 Just learning about someone outside of just their teacher role, just their principal role in learning, which is a big reason why I think we wanted to have you guys on the podcast today was just to learn a little bit more about outside of your role about you guys. Speaker 3 I've been blessed with a Kline family of teachers because being a colleague first with them and then they've seen me grow in my assistant principal role. I've messed up and I've owned it. And and luckily, you know, Mr. Clifford created the condition of that same family feel so I could stand in front of them and say, I'm sorry this went this way. Speaker 3 I messed up. And they were with me through those growing pains. So when I transitioned into this role, I made sure to bring that up. Like these people have been so supportive and forgiving and, you know, gracious. Speaker 2 Yeah. Speaker 3 Because in any new role and sorry Russell. Speaker 2 In any role, you're going to mess up. And then admitting. Speaker 3 That and owning that and being vulnerable is the important part to them too. Speaker 5 And I think to taking time to reflect is important too. We're not going to always make what people perceive as the right decision, and I'm having the time to talk together and be reflective and what can we do differently? We're always learning and growing and. Speaker 2 Yeah. Speaker 1 Yeah, I think that's that's huge. Ray is like and you said that they know your heart and I think, gosh, like just to humanize yourself, to be able to say when you're wrong about something, oh my gosh, I respect that so much versus like. Speaker 2 Panicked trying to cover it up when I'm like, you. Speaker 1 Know, like, own it, like we're all human. Speaker 2 We all make each other freedom. Speaker 3 Like you give the other person freedom to, you know, or where you can mess up, too. And I'm going to I'm going to give you grace. Speaker 1 Absolutely. Speaker 5 And give ourselves that grace, too. It's not always easy. Speaker 3 No, it's not. That's the hard part. Speaker 1 She says with a smile. I know. Speaker 2 It's easy. That's funny. Speaker 4 Well, I'm curious to learn how you know you are doing such a good job and you've assumed different roles. Parent, teacher, assistant, principal, principal, or multiple at one time. With all that said, how do you guys deal with all of the the challenges that you face on a daily basis with all of the doing all of those things? Speaker 3 I'm going to. Speaker 2 Start sorry, because I'm just laughing. Well, we laugh a lot. That's that's the answer. Speaker 3 To that question. Speaker 2 We laugh a lot. You're fun. You are? Yes. And in a moment. Speaker 3 When the times are hard, in the moment, you know, you it's a game face and it's the action. And what's next? What's next? What's next? And if I make this decision, is it going to how's it going to impact a domino over here or so? But I'm laughing. Speaker 2 Because I'm just wrestling. Her first nine weeks here so many times has come in my office and shut the door. And I just didn't know like, oh, my gosh, I just I mean, this is really happening. This is real life. Yes. Welcome to Welcome to the Dark Side. It's you can't make it up. That's that's your famous line. Speaker 2 You can't make this stuff up. My gosh. Yes. Speaker 3 Retirement for me is going to include a book writing deal for sure. Like, of course, I'd have to change names. Speaker 2 But there are so many stories of this. Cannot. Is this true? Yeah. And so all of that we. Speaker 3 Shield from teachers and kids and and we want their day in and day out to be as. Speaker 2 Least chaotic. Speaker 3 And just. Speaker 2 You know, chill as possible. Speaker 3 But it's been fun to watch her come to this side and then. Speaker 2 Her eyes to see for yourself. Yeah. Speaker 4 Do you feel like there's particularly a a biggest challenge. Speaker 3 The biggest challenge, I would say, is keeping everyone happy. And so I've as a leader have grown in that way. Like it's impossible. I mean, you start in this role and you think, I've got to juggle all of the plates at one time and spin all the plates and keep everybody happy because there are so many different stakeholder groups that we serve. Speaker 3 Yes, but it's impossible, you know, So one decision is not going to unless you're just giving away free money. Right. Is not going to make every person know. Speaker 2 That's not just my so really is is. Speaker 3 Being living and that it's okay. It's okay if people are mad. It's okay if they things didn't go the way that that they wanted and it's okay have kids feel that same thing too because that's a life skill that's yeah learning defeat or learning mistakes and you know, going back to those conversations with kids, I love just sitting there and and going, This is okay, this doesn't define you. Speaker 3 This isn't who you are. Like, you're going to keep making mistakes until the day you die. Your parents are your teachers are, your coaches are. And that's just part of being human. But we learn from it and we go, Oh, I'm not going to do that next time. And we make better choices next time. So I think I really got off track on that question. Speaker 4 I think that really goes back to what we were saying earlier. Speaker 2 So again. Speaker 4 I think that that I would guess that that is one of the biggest challenges because. Speaker 2 People think that you. Speaker 4 Too, you know, there are a lot of probably hands that go into decisions being made. But I think people think the entire thing falls on you. So you're really. Speaker 1 You're the face of it. Yeah, absolutely. Like for your canvas, you're the face of those decisions for the district. That is the face of those decisions, even though it's like people don't see all of the all the hands or all of the conversations or hours of work that go into stress. They go into those decisions. Speaker 2 They just hear. Speaker 1 The delivery and they may not love. Speaker 2 It. Speaker 3 There are times that you can't share all of the ins and outs because of confidentiality. And so, yeah, they view maybe a decision that that I made as incorrect or, you know, I can't believe she did that. And it and I don't have the opportunity to sit and explain everything. Yeah I'm single from all the vantage points. Speaker 4 But I think people can appreciate just how transparent you are with everything that you can be with. And that helps. And like you said earlier. Speaker 1 To explain like I can't share all this because X, Y, Z. Speaker 3 You know. Speaker 2 Where you're if the roles were reversed. Speaker 3 You wouldn't want me to. Speaker 1 Share. Yes. Speaker 3 About your your child or right. You know, confidentiality. Speaker 4 And I think it kind of goes back to also what you said about giving adults grace. Sometimes you are things that we don't always understand because we don't have all of the information. Right. But I think that you providing a lot of information and the information you can provide is you're already going like the extra mile to do that for people. Speaker 2 To help to, Oh. Speaker 5 We're trying where we are. Speaker 2 Where it is. Speaker 3 Challenging it's Russell. Speaker 5 Greatest challenge. Speaker 1 Nice transition. Speaker 2 Left deflected right here. Speaker 1 Thanks for that McCarty I. Speaker 2 Appreciate you. Thank you. Speaker 5 Mr. McCarty In your spare time, you can take on that gig. Speaker 2 Oh, sure. Right. Speaker 5 We have so much of it. So the segue into that, I think probably my greatest challenge would be that time management piece. Yeah, as a mom of four, I thought it was really great at making my calendar work and multitasking and marking those things off the to do list and checklist. But it's been a challenge this year and because there's so much I didn't know, I didn't know. Speaker 5 Yeah. And so learning the things and having to swallow my pride and ask for help, yeah, it's been a bit of a challenge, but I've been very, very fortunate and blessed to get to work with Miss McCarty and the team. And it truly takes a village and everyone we get by with a little help from our friends and they're really taking me under their wing and helped me to grow in that way. Speaker 5 So I'm very thankful. Speaker 3 She sent me a picture last night. Speaker 2 She was sitting on a basketball court, her legs extended with these cute little heels and her laptop. Speaker 3 In her lap. And so all I see is like the laptop and the shoes. Speaker 2 And and she she was like, trying to work on our project for tomorrow on the basketball court while she's watching her son's game. And she she she was like, there's no way I can think to connect. So yeah, this is a job that we take with us. Speaker 3 It doesn't just end there. Speaker 2 It's it's a full time gig and she's. Speaker 3 Doing a great job. Speaker 2 But we also have to draw some boundaries. Speaker 5 I'm working on that as well. Speaker 4 I know it's you, sister. I just. I don't know. I just started in this role, too. And so a lot of the things you're saying about learning to ask for help when you thought you knew it all, and then accepting that help and also just all the things you didn't know, you didn't know. Right. And the time management thing, like I you know, I did college and worked full time at the same time. Speaker 4 So I thought my time management was pretty on par. And then I go into, you know, my first big role as a full time job, and I realized that there are a million little things and I got to figure out which ones to prioritize. Yeah. And, you know, before it kind of was up to me what I prioritized. Speaker 4 So, you know, I can totally relate with the transition of another position like this. Speaker 1 So yeah, yeah. And we we're not even in y'all's boat yet. We're like, have all the things to juggle. We don't. I'm, I'm intrigued by face. Oh, yeah, yeah. But with children and schedules and, you know, like, you know, I can't imagine. Speaker 4 Basketball games after work. Speaker 1 Oh yeah. Like it's my. Speaker 4 Netflix time. Speaker 2 And yeah, you lose that sort of thing anymore. No, I made a commitment to my subscription. Yeah. At this point. Speaker 1 Well, we all are superstars, I think. Shout out to women in general. I think overall, like, there's a lot we have to juggle a lot of roles we have to play. Speaker 4 So it's definitely. Speaker 1 Amazing. Okay, so what would you say less exciting topic than talking about basketball games in heels and no wife I But what are your priorities for Kline this year? Like, have you established something new coming into these new roles? What would what would be your top priorities? Speaker 3 Well, I got to be a part of the build. So that was that was a blessing in itself. Just because in a smaller district like this, they don't say, here's your building and this is the cookie cutter design that you you get. I was a part of the design team, so we literally took it from Legos, you know, just dreaming it on a table and then seeing it come to life has been a whole new thing. Speaker 3 Well, now in this role, I go, okay, now we've built this beautiful building with specific things in mind. Student collaboration and being open, really visible Learning is is really what that building was designed around. And so then it's it's the weight. Speaker 2 Of, okay. Speaker 3 What do I want to do next or what? How do I want to best utilize this? And I've just had on my heart, I guess for the past couple of years that I really want parents to be more of a part of our school than just when they're volunteering for PTO or when they're coming in for lunch with their students. Speaker 3 Because education change so much in the time just from when we were in school as youngsters. And then now it is night and day difference. I was just having this conversation this morning when we did a tour with a busload of parents and community members. It's just so different and I think that if we can bridge that gap and have people see that and they can't take off work and they can't come, maybe they can't join the tour. Speaker 3 So one of my visions or goals is to really have parents be more of a part of of what's happening inside the classroom, to educate them, to have teachers feel more comfortable with having parents in their class. So for me, I'm thinking like, lives, livestreaming and Sophia's helping me with that. We're getting all that set up, but I want to. Speaker 2 Do. Speaker 3 One in nine weeks this year, and I might do more next year. But really with the intent of having parents see inside our building and see what we do and see the just the fun environment and what it means to be a kid in a Klein classroom or in a feisty classroom right now is so fun and different and how we individualize learning for kids. Speaker 3 It's no longer everybody, every child sitting in a row and listening to the teacher who's the master of all knowledge and they're disseminating the knowledge. It's just not like that anymore. It's collaborative. It's what if it's inquiry learning, it's making them think for themselves, because that's really the world that we have to prepare them for. So I'm excited just to invite parents in to see from the inside. Speaker 3 Like we've got a new committee this year, the science committee, a parent committee with PTO, and I just want them here, like just get in our mask and like join in the fun. And so we've had some volunteers come in, sign up quite a few, and they set up the lab for us and then they help run the lab. Speaker 3 Now we have to teach them like, don't tell the kids how to do the. Speaker 2 Lab. Speaker 3 Inquiry process. So you're asking questions and and so that we've had a lot of positive feedback from that. So really my main vision is that the school is the hub, it's the center of our community, and it needs to feel like that, not just one day a year at Kline Fast or right. And when you happen to come in and have lunch with your kiddo because you took a day off of work, they really need to feel like they're a part of it and they own it and they know what happens behind and because a lot of assumptions are made. Speaker 3 Yeah, and then a lot of opinions kind of go wild in. So if I can help to mitigate that and really just educate like, yes, this is what we do. And let me tell you how intentional when this teacher sitting here reading. Speaker 2 This book at the carpet, oh, it's. Speaker 3 Not just reading a book. Speaker 2 I mean, she's already. Speaker 3 Pre-planned her her, you know, in-depth questions that she's going to ask. And she's playing turn and talks and she's planned opportunities for the kids to respond. Speaker 2 This is a craft. Speaker 3 Yeah, this is an art and it needs to be celebrated that way. So I really have a passion for bridging that gap. Speaker 4 Especially because if the parents can see some of the ways that the school is using to teach their children. And I think like in the last episode, we were talking about a lot of the language that you see. I mean, you know, they can take that maybe if they want to, that she's they can take that to their home and help their kids with learning at home. Speaker 4 And yes, I think that, you know, giving letting the parents be aware of like the resources that are. Speaker 3 Available right now that. Speaker 4 They can use is important. Speaker 2 For sure. Speaker 5 Can I just say ditto on my answer? Speaker 2 I mean, literally. Speaker 5 Intervention vision for Klein is just that we want to show the community and not just tell them we're doing writing right now. We really want to show them like what is writing look like in 2024. It has changed a lot and to to give them those glimpses and in that vision, the actual vision of seeing what's going on in the classrooms is is really powerful. Speaker 3 And then outside of the classroom as to just you saying writing made me think our kids do the writing and do the book reviews and then go into a podcasting room to record it because that is that extension piece, or it might be something they do in their future. It might spark some new love They didn't know they had, or they might be comfortable sitting right here with a mike in their face like, I'm not. Speaker 2 I am. Speaker 1 Well, you know, you're you're sitting with the perfect pair to right now to help promote some of these things. Speaker 2 I'm just going. Speaker 1 To let you know. Yeah. Speaker 2 Sorry. We got to talk. Yes. Speaker 3 Yeah, I'm meeting after this. Speaker 4 Because I Klein is. I'm sure everyone's seen it, but it's beautiful and it's a great space to be in, so please invite me over there more. Speaker 2 We just be for sure. For sure. Speaker 1 It's like the greatest part of our jobs is and we say this like sometimes it's like if you just need a pick me up, you just in a smile, like, we're going on a campus, you know. Speaker 4 Specifically one with the little ones. Speaker 2 That you're so grateful, partial to them, they're just too cute. It fills your soul. It really does. Speaker 1 It does. And like, I can't tell you. I can't tell you how many times I've as a new classroom. I have no idea who the kid is. And the kids like coming up and giving me hugs around the thing. And I'm like. Speaker 2 I'm going to cry like, this is you on. Speaker 4 Camera and suddenly you're a celebrity. Speaker 1 Now we do that in a room of adults and rotated people. Yes, Yes. But the kids. Speaker 2 They love it. Yeah. Speaker 4 Don't go into a cafeteria. I've learned that the cafeteria is where you're the most popular. Oh, yes. I would say they're the goofiest. Speaker 1 It's like they're more of their free time. They're getting a little energy from what they're eating so they can flag it down, and they will. Speaker 2 Oh, yeah. Speaker 1 And they will. Yeah. No, it's. It's so fine. The other's so goofy. I love it. I love going into the classroom. So yes, if you all whatever needs to be promoted, I hope that you're reaching out. Speaker 2 To the students. You've already got mine. We've already talked to. Speaker 4 My mom, my phone and my. Speaker 2 Email calendar. Speaker 4 But we do. We need to get that livestream. Speaker 2 How You could teach me How to take beautiful Pictures the way that you do that. Speaker 3 That's what I need. And like. Speaker 1 Oh my goodness. See, I don't know. Speaker 2 Why your pictures always look so. Speaker 3 Much clearer and. Speaker 1 Yeah, good cameras. I will see. Speaker 3 That at home too. And it's now it's a skill. Speaker 2 Really. Yes. You're not it's you're not owning that. Speaker 1 See, I'm deflecting now. Speaker 2 You are. Speaker 4 You're like this podcast is supposed to be about you guys. Speaker 2 No, I mean, I'm. Speaker 1 Fine with the attention sometimes. Speaker 2 It's okay. Speaker 1 Well, kind of what you said. So, you know, one thing we do twice a year, once in the fall, when in the spring is we have our most senior citizens come. Speaker 2 And I think that's what that's like. One of my. Speaker 1 Favorite things is showing them just how different. Speaker 2 School is today. Speaker 1 So and I think one thing, you know, Friendswood in general is so rooted in its legacy, right? Like the foundation of faith, family, education. And that's a beautiful thing. And I think that's part of what makes this community so special. And I think it's important. Right. And maybe I can talk about this a little bit more is we're not we're not taking away the legacy. Speaker 1 We're not taking away the foundation. Friendswood is still like doing the beautiful things, but we're also adjusting to the changing world that we live in, right? So so with education constantly changing, I guess, how would you say you stay up to date with like the best practices for our kids? Like, I mean, you don't make decisions lightly, right? Speaker 1 Like pretty much everything's data driven but just talked about a little bit. Speaker 2 I mean, there's this just she's pointing at me, obviously, where, you know, we're. Speaker 3 A part of networks and groups online that really keep us up to date and knowing what's coming by. Education is. Speaker 2 So it evolves. Speaker 3 So quickly and changes so quickly. And really the climate, especially public education, can change. So quickly. So it is important to really not only know what what maybe the next newest thing is, but really how everyone read the room essentially and know how everyone's feeling or what the underlying vibe is, and then how I can help with that. Speaker 3 If it's a matter of clearing something up or education piece, you know, training people, that's that's a part of this job. So we always want to stay on the forefront of what's right and how we can prepare our kids to be those productive workforce members in the future, which really is scary because we don't even know what the workforce is going to look like. Speaker 3 We in. We think that we do now, but in ten or 20 years that it's going to evolve so much that if we don't stay ahead of now, the gap will be that much bigger for them. So it's hard knowing what that's going to look like. But with with the ability and to the degree that we can we're going to we're going to make it as future forward as we can. Speaker 3 We're very blessed to have a strong FCF. Speaker 1 Oh, my good foundation. Yes. Speaker 3 And so if there's a wild idea or a. Speaker 2 New a new tech toy. Speaker 3 Or a new, you know, classroom thing that the teachers want to do, goodness, that's our biggest blessing here in Friendswood, is that we've got the support. Yes. And all we have to do is ask and somebody is going to figure out how to make that that dream happen. So we're not fighting that battle. Speaker 2 That's huge. Speaker 3 And so, again, what was the question? Speaker 1 This the just the I guess the angel. Speaker 2 Can you tell I have a little ADHD. Speaker 1 It's it's all good. You're in you're in good company here. But know just how everything has evolved in like just keeping up with the times. I mean, we we face that and in our realm to right communication. I literally remember my first class, first day of undergrad, defining mass communications that there is no definition because it's it's ever changing. Speaker 1 And I feel like education is very much that way. It's hard because we're tied to certain mandates, you know, set by the state. Right. But we're also trying to be innovators at the same time. And it's a really hard balance. But I think we would be failing kids. Speaker 2 Absolutely. Speaker 4 Sure. Yeah. I mean, I'll show my age a little bit, but I graduated less than ten years ago, high school less than ten years ago. So, yeah. So I am a baby, but at the same time, I go into these classrooms with these kids and even in high school, high school kids, and they're learning eons above what I was learning. Speaker 4 Yes. At that point in time and with the resources they have, you know, they're they're growing up and getting out of high school with a career based already there. Whereas whenever I was graduating, going to high school, it was kind of like, okay. Speaker 3 What next? Speaker 1 Yeah, And I think you can kind of see your point. There's a stat I know we've watched a video and like our district leadership team meeting before, I'm like, I think it's like 70% of the jobs that will be here, like for our kids today, like, do not exist really. So I don't. Speaker 3 Even know what it looks. Speaker 1 Like. I don't even know what it looks like. So it's like, of course, teaching teaching as much as we can for what we know. But it's also teaching adaptability. It's teaching that flexibility. Speaker 2 The soft skills. Speaker 1 The skills. Yes. Which is so important for I mean, that's what they even say with like when you interview, they actually look more if you've gotten an interview, they see the hard skills. Right. Like you have those, but they're looking for the soft skills. Speaker 2 And. Speaker 1 You know, there's kind of a gap in that sometimes, right? Speaker 3 Definitely. Speaker 4 Especially with like and don't even get me started on, but especially with, you know, everything is online now and a lot of things you don't need to be in person, so you're not learning a lot of those soft skills. You can kind of coast by without them. And it's very important to realize that like we still do use those and they can get you lots of jobs. Speaker 3 So thinking of that, our new building really does focus on on some of those things, like the collaboration skills. Every every pod has a collaboration space where kids can go out and write on the wall and work on group projects and sit on a couch and think through things as a team. That's a that's a life skill that they need to be ready for. Speaker 3 And then if you've been inclined, there are these massive learning stairs is what we call them. But essentially it's a huge wide staircase that our whole grade level could fit on and a big screen that comes down from the ceiling with a projector. And it's really cool on days that. Speaker 2 We see kids. Speaker 3 So teachers will reserve that space, have kids, go and have their class sit on the learning stairs, and one student at a time comes to the front and presents on that big screen and they present, you know, it's a culminating project or whatever they've just completed. But that's I mean, just think about being a kid. I never had that opportunity. Speaker 3 I mean, you may have had to go up in front of the class and, you know, for spelling bee or something that might have been really the biggest scary thing that you did if you chose to do that by giving them those skills of being comfortable just public speaking and standing in front of a group talking and working on a project and seeing it through to completion and then being to speak about it and be the expert at that topic, whatever it is, those are huge social skills and life skills that we need to prepare them for. Speaker 3 Now and then every campus builds on that. Speaker 1 And y'all have always done I mean, of course, again, you have a facility now that really. Speaker 2 Helps facilitate skills. Speaker 1 But. Kline That's that's one that, of course, this is across the district. There's always been such a focus on character. Of course, Kline is very much bucket filling, and it's it's just teaching these kids beyond just academics like to be good. Speaker 2 People. Speaker 3 And leaders. So leadership is a huge part of our campus and we want students to see themselves as leaders. And so we have a Leaders in Action program. As Russell I'm doing all the talking. No, I was about the leaders in action. I'm really. Speaker 5 Enjoying listening to. Speaker 1 You guys. She's exacting her writing skill. Speaker 2 Sets to carry. Speaker 5 On. I want to hear about leaders in action parties. Speaker 1 I think we want to hear from Miss Russell, actually. Yeah. Speaker 4 All eyes on you. Both ears and eyes will be on. You. Speaker 5 Can. So yes, we do have a Leaders in Action program. It's really geared toward our upper elementary through fifth grade, but they have the opportunity to peruse a variety of jobs that we're offering and they're led by teacher sponsors. And yeah, they just get to find something that interests them and that they have a passion in. And it's a way to help around the school and they fill out an application. Speaker 5 I want to say, do you remember how many applications we had. Speaker 2 Last for the first. Speaker 3 Nine weeks? We accepted a 300. Speaker 2 Applications for an application. Wow. Yeah. Speaker 1 And so yesterday, yeah. Speaker 5 It was amazing. But it also taught some kids didn't get jobs. And so that saw skill of having to accept. Speaker 2 Failure and. Speaker 5 Be able to move on from that. So I want to back up to your question before about the best practices. Yeah, I wanted to brag on our teachers and our instructional coaches for a second. Speaker 2 And, you know. Speaker 5 I know. See, while I was listening. Speaker 2 I was like, you know, how do I keep your spaced out over there? Speaker 5 And it's listening and thinking it's hard for us. So we are instructional leaders and we are boots on the ground in the classrooms, but it's hard to know all the things about all the things. And so we have to rely on our experts and we're very blessed with great instructional coaches, great teachers that collaborate and work together. And we have these planning days throughout the year that they're able to do that and bounce ideas off of each other and just really learn and grow together. Speaker 5 And that's been a really cool thing to see as a teacher. I got to do it and work with those amazing people and now to kind of see it happening from that different view has been it's been really, really amazing to see just what talented people we have. Speaker 3 And instructional coaches. That's a piece that we stay up to date on. You know, when you're talking about staying up to date in the curriculum world, we're not able to know, like she's saying all of the new things. And so those are our two experts on campus that stay abreast of everything new. And then they go into the classroom and they model it. Speaker 3 And so what an instructional coach does is very similar to what you think of a regular coach, a sports coach. They encourage they say, hey, try this. Hey, let me teach you this new way of doing things. And so. Speaker 2 They teach us to, oh, yes. Speaker 3 All the time. And so they go in. It can be a modeling lesson. It could be a co teach where they teach a lesson with a teacher. And there's something called a coaching cycle which takes a teacher through. Speaker 2 A whole cycle of. Speaker 3 Continuous improvement essentially is what it is. But they have those talks. They're vulnerable with the teachers. The teachers say, I don't know really what guided reading. I thought I knew what guided reading was, but can you come in to your model? And so the coach will sit at a small group table and take them through a lesson cycle and show them how to really individual eyes. Speaker 3 That instruction for kids. We don't sit in front of a classroom and everyone receives the same lesson. We go to a small group table and we group you by ability and by skill so that you don't feel uncomfortable at that table. And then the coach gives those teachers them the lessons and the help they need to really individualize that student instruction. Speaker 4 So it's you never stop learning. Even the teachers are learning exact way. Speaker 1 Exactly. At least there's a level of support in additional maybe layer of support for students that maybe wouldn't be provided if we didn't have these instructional coaches who are they're fabulous on every campus. And then again, it's all for the benefit of the kids. At the end of the day, if the better we can prepare our teachers to to thrive in those environments, then the more our students thrive. Speaker 3 You know. Speaker 1 It's awesome. Speaker 3 Oh, that was a squirrel moment. Yeah. Speaker 2 Sorry. Todd Russell. Yeah. Speaker 3 The coaches are going to love you. Speaker 2 Do they make cookies? You know, I don't. I haven't seen any of the coaches. That's where they're lacking. They need they need Jillian and Kelsey. Just go to the them, show them how to do that. They could be great cooks. How would you say you. Speaker 4 Guys engage parents in the community in school life right now? Speaker 3 Right now. Speaker 2 Oh, well, gosh, we. Speaker 3 In Friendswood are. Speaker 2 So. Speaker 3 Blessed. I came from a bigger district where parent involvement was not a thing. I mean, you couldn't call them on the phone. Speaker 2 They didn't they saw the caller. Speaker 3 I.D. and didn't answer. Speaker 2 Parents here are. Speaker 3 They're eager and ready and they want to be a part of the school in any way that they can. I can't tell you how many times a parent will stop me and just say whatever you need. Like if there's a way I can help, I want to help, but I don't know what that is. But just remember my name. Speaker 3 And that's a big blessing for us. And so how are they a part of the school? Goodness, They live and breathe. I mean, they're they're in it all the time. Our PTO is massive because people just want to be involved and help in any way that they can. It's a beautiful thing here in Friendswood. So we just wrapped up our annual Kline. Speaker 2 Fest. Speaker 3 Again, and Miss Russell has some good stories there with some pie in the face situation. Speaker 5 Trying to get whipped cream out of my hair. Speaker 2 Oh, it's like, oh, it got. Speaker 5 Dried and baked on my hair. I know the dunk tank would wash it all off, but, you know. No, it didn't. Speaker 1 So yeah, now they give like, I don't know if this is released. There is other final numbers for. Speaker 3 There are not final numbers. Speaker 2 So I. Speaker 3 Don't have that to release. Speaker 1 So be on the lookout for that. Speaker 2 I know we'll be very proud of it. Our PTO works hard. They are amazing. They are amazing. Speaker 3 So parents are always there helping goodness from just refilling the recess bucket. What's new? You know, Erin, at the bottles and refilling buckets, things you don't think about that need to happen to run a school. Yeah. That teachers get don't have time to do. Administrators don't have time to do. We're blessed with parents that will sign up and look for opportunities just to come help in any way they can. Speaker 3 From big to small. Speaker 5 They live the teachers too. Speaker 2 They do love our teachers. Well, would you guys. Speaker 4 After everything that you've said in having this new role now for a little bit, is there any advice that you would give your younger self for just starting out in education? Speaker 2 Oh, that's deep. Speaker 5 Is I wasn't prepared for that one. Speaker 3 I'd say. Speaker 2 Be okay with. Speaker 3 Mistakes and be okay. Speaker 2 With. Speaker 3 Messing up and owning it because my younger self would have just covered it up. Speaker 2 Or Oh, well, I. Speaker 3 Didn't, you know, And that was part of growing into leadership. Two is being able to admit that didn't go the way. Speaker 2 I planned to go. Speaker 3 And so I would to to a my younger self or any younger person younger teacher starting you know there's this element in a teacher's personality and we're kind of type-A and we like to be perfect and we like to have a schedule and a checklist and a and we want all the things to happen just the way that we imagine them in our head. Speaker 3 And as you get older, you realize that the beauty is there in the mistake. And then. Speaker 2 Oh, this took a. Speaker 3 Totally different direction, but let's roll with it. And then some beautiful conversations or beautiful mishaps, you know, happen in moments with kids and letting yourself let go of the control is, I think, the biggest life lesson. Control is just that's a facade. You can't I mean, there's no control. Speaker 2 Just let it go. That's a life lesson. I won't let it. Speaker 3 Happen because really, you're you're not your true self when you're guarded and wanting all the things to happen exactly as you think they should just live in the beauty of being with a person right in front of you and making that genuine connection with that person. And however it happens and it happens. Well said and the list will never get done. Speaker 5 Russell I'm really trying though. That list. I'm I think the advice I would give to my younger self is to always look for that positive because we're going to have tough days, we're going to have hard days and to look for what good we can see. I actually sent Miss McCarty a picture this morning for my morning devotional that that said those same things. Speaker 5 We're going to have hard days and they're not going to go the way we think they're going to go. But even within that, just looking for the beauty and the good is so important to try to stay focused on that positive and, you know, be able to shine bright and. Speaker 2 Do your best. Speaker 4 And I think that's how people seem to stay so nice here in Friendswood is a lot of people are trying to do that very same thing. And that's definitely something I've noticed. Speaker 3 Yes, for sure. Speaker 1 Now, what is like we're looking we did a reflection right on the past. What is your your vision or what is I guess more so what is your hope for the legacy you leave on clean moving forward? Speaker 3 Oh, goodness. We sort of had these questions ahead of time. Speaker 1 But then you went to your type would have planned it to my right. Speaker 2 We would have. Speaker 5 Filled out my note card and say, okay, let me tell you. Speaker 2 That. Exactly. And then everyone would have known you were reading, Oh, this is where I would. Speaker 3 Have been a real big help. Speaker 2 Okay. Speaker 3 What what legacy do I want to lead? You know, it's I relate it so much to parenting in that they they're not going to remember like, it's not important that I get all a checklist on and answer all the emails in. Speaker 2 40 hours because. Speaker 3 That's impossible and, you know, do all of the things perfectly. But my vision or what I want my legacy to be is that I left a good feeling. So no one cares if you completed all the paperwork or if if that's not what they're going to remember in ten years, just like my kids at home, they're not going to remember. Speaker 3 I'm, you know, all the games that I got them to on time or all of the all of the sporting events or all of the schedule. Do you know what it took to run this household. Speaker 2 With four boys? And, you know. Speaker 3 They won't remember that. But what people do remember is how you make them feel. And so for me and my legacy online is the connections with people, big people and little people and how I make them feel so I can get lost in all of them. Speaker 2 All the protocols and all. Speaker 3 Of the things that have to be done. But at the end of the day, it only matters how you impact the world around you and how you make people feel. So that's the legacy I hope to leave is just that it's I made people feel good. Speaker 2 Yeah. Speaker 5 Was a are huge kids staff parents this is an old quote from capturing kids hearts but people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care. And it's so true. If we can help them realize through the relationship building how much we do care and not just about academics, but about them as a whole people. Speaker 5 And it's just it's so important to to keep those relationships strong. Speaker 3 Okay. I'm going to quote you on your interview. I remember a quote, a Russell. Speaker 5 Quote, Goodness. Speaker 3 Kindness is actually written on my vision board in my office. Speaker 2 Yes. Speaker 3 I don't know if you know that. Is that. Speaker 2 Creepy? Yeah, maybe it is. Speak the truth with love. Speaker 3 And that came out of her interview and she really loves that. So she does. There are times that you've got to have hard conversations with parents and teachers and kids. Speaker 2 Kids. Speaker 3 And as long as they feel that you love them and you're speaking those hard things with love, that's really what matters. That's legacy. Speaker 1 Well, and I think just to commend both of you, I think your the legacies you hope to leave, you are already imprinting. You both have just beautiful hearts. I think that's so evident. Of course, just having had more conversations really with you, Julianne, but now really getting to know you better. Sarah, you you are doing the good right? Speaker 1 You are making the good happen in this world. And we we know your heart. We know your love for what you do. And you're doing a beautiful job. Speaker 3 Thank you. Speaker 5 Yes, You client is home and family and we're just happy to be here. Speaker 1 Well, we've been happy to have you here on our podcast today. Speaker 2 Thank you. Very honored. I believe What? You want to talk to me. Okay. Speaker 1 Well, it was an easy choice. We we've actually had you on our list. We brainstormed this summer. Just we just know you are awesome. And again, getting to have everyone learn a little bit more about the two. Speaker 2 Ladies leading Klein and I had. Speaker 5 I get to brag that I beat Coach Russell on the podcast. Unknown With Coach and Chris. I mean, I'm still asking that. Speaker 2 Yes, well, that's I dig. I love it. Well, thank. Speaker 1 You so much for being here today. And again, we just appreciate you and all that you do for friends. What I know. Speaker 2 I don't appreciate it for the opportunity and at.