The school tragedy in Florida makes my participation in this week’s AASA Conference seem trivial. I know what we talk about will be important, but it pales when considering the events in Florida.

I want to be in my school district, walking the halls, reassuring teachers, saying hello to students, calming parents.

Doing that would calm me.

But I’m here — in Nashville.

And here is where I will stay. Why?

Because one of the ways I can help my district is to be the best superintendent I can be. Informed. Caring. Connected. Curious. Thoughtful. Visible.

So let’s learn from each other this week so we can create safe, supportive, challenging learning environments at home.