Weekly Reflection: Listen Twice and Speak Once

Patrick Jenkins
Jan 13, 2018
2 min read

I have to admit that I was a little excited/nervous to hear that our state Superintendent, Dr. Christina Kishimoto, was bringing the state leadership team to come and visit; not to mention I had already drunken my third cup of coffee by the time I hit 8:00 am. This would be my first interaction with state leadership team visiting complex area's, and I didn't know what to expect.

Before the visit, there was a brief discussion with Interim CAS Keone Farias and SRS Darrell Nekoba on how we would divide our selves to best support our schools with the state leadership team visit. It was determined that I would be best suited to go to Hilo High school, which is where I initially came from before taking on the role of TA Complex Academic Officer, and Darrell would then go to Hilo Intermediate. It was an opportunity to return to my teaching roots and discuss with the students about equity and quality in school design.

The morning started off with some introductions by Principal Robert Dircks; he introduced us to his staff and the students who would be leading us around. Personally, for me it was great to reconnect with former colleagues and catch up on all things going on at Hilo High School; it was great to be back! There was this inclusive energy that I can't describe, but you could just feel it. I also got to see several former students, and listen to the excitement leading up to of graduation and hear what their plans are. I am always so impressed when catching up with students.

After the pleasantries, we were then told to partner up two adults with two students. The students would then take us around to any part of the campus that the adults would like to see. To my surprise, the state Superintendent pointed to me and said "let's go," so I did like any person caught off guard that is partnered with the BOSS, and I said, "sounds good." Deep down I was like "OMG...this is the STATE SUPERINTENDENT... don't say anything STUPID that could get you FIRED." My nerves quickly settled once we began talking with the students and walking through the school. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised at how genuine Dr. Kishimoto was; the way she asked her questions and approached students showed a real concern for wanting to hear student voices. In the end, it was such a fantastic opportunity to observe the heart of our leader in a very up-close and personal way. It reminded me to listen twice as much as I speak, and that it's important to be genuine in our approach.

In the end, the students of Hilo High did such an AMAZING job at being open, vulnerable, and just authentic in sharing their thoughts on school design. I will forever be grateful for this opportunity...Once a Viking, Always a Viking!