Leadership in Action: We Are Not Starting Over

6 hours ago
2 min read

One of the things I love about preparing for a new school year is that we get a fresh start, but a fresh start does not mean starting over.

This summer, I have spent a lot of time reflecting on what worked last year, what did not work as well as we hoped, and, most importantly, what our data is telling us. There are things to celebrate, and there is also work that needs to be done. The data makes that clear, and part of leadership is being willing to look at both.

This year, we are starting a new math curriculum, which gives us an opportunity to take a close look at how we teach mathematics and how our students experience it. A new curriculum by itself will not change outcomes. The real work will be supporting teachers with implementation, strengthening Tier 1 instruction, using data to respond to student needs, and making sure students are thinking, talking, problem solving, and developing a deeper understanding of math.

For me, leadership means being able to celebrate progress while still being honest about where growth is needed. I am proud of the work we have done, but I also know our students deserve for us to keep getting better.

As we prepare for September, I am not interested in introducing a million new things. I want us to become more consistent and intentional with the right things:

strong instruction
meaningful student discourse
purposeful small groups
differentiation, and
using data to make instructional decisions.

We are not starting over.

We are taking what we have learned, listening to what the data is telling us, and using it to move forward.

That is the work I am excited about:

Lead with heart.

Make good choices.

Each day is a new chance to do both.

Desiree LaFontaine is an Elementary Principal with the New York City Department of Education, and her philosophy is to "Lead with love," focusing on care, trust, and high expectations for students and staff. She is committed to helping create inclusive learning spaces where everyone can thrive. This piece was originally posted August 21, 2026 as she prepares to begin her third year leading The James McCune Smith School in New York City. Learn more about Desiree here.