Finding the Right in Rightsizing Narrative Report Submission on Leading Teachers and Families through School Closures in SAISD

Marisa Mendez • Cahn Fellow 2023

Our Cahn project affirmed The Servant Leadership Model and was focused in San Antonio, Texas in a High-Poverty Urban Head Start Early Childhood Center Community. As described more in-depth in the subsequent narrative submission – we will dive into our work as San Antonio ISD faced the decision of rightsizing which led to double-digit closures of schools which in turn impacted our school community: Pauline Nelson Early Childhood Education Center. The decision to close our school left teachers and staff with a feeling of loss, the anticipation of unknowns, and new looming job opportunities. For students and families, it led to schedule disruptions, school choice, and transportation logistics. School dynamic shifts while ensuring the delivery of high-quality instruction was very challenging for all stakeholders involved. Diligent and intentional efforts were made toward Teacher and Student Retention and genuine Empathy and Equity for all impacted stakeholders. Our Cahn Project efforts aimed at avoiding Toxic Positivity while maintaining a Positive Climate, Culture, and Morale. As well as, continuity of Collective Efficacy acknowledging the cycle of grief and the needs of all stakeholders.