Most You Can’t Make It Up! moments involve some level of humor. But sometimes, there are those moments that are just as unexpected—just without the punchline. That was certainly the case when I recently met a colleague from another state facing the unthinkable: closing multiple schools next year. Not just one or two. TEN. SCHOOLS. […]
The Hardest “You Can’t Make It Up” Moments: Closing Schools Read More »
It is cold in the Midwest! This morning, as I bundled up to walk my dog, my phone informed me it was 5 degrees. FIVE. Naturally, this is the time of year when any break in the calendar has people dreaming of beaches, sunshine, and escaping frostbite. Such was the case when I was a
Cruise Ships and Guilt Trips: When Rules Take A Vacation Read More »
The holiday season is perfect for catching up with old friends, swapping stories, and even stealing a quiet moment away from the holiday chaos. Over the break, I had the chance to sit down with a friend who’s an experienced elementary school principal. As we chatted, she mentioned she’d read my recent article, When Did
You Can’t Make It Up: Extreme Behaviors – Part 1 In a Series Read More »
Many of you have been faithful readers of my weekly blog on YouCantMakeItUpEducation.com, and I’m beyond grateful for your interest. This blog began as a place to share those moments in education when we all shake our heads and say, “You can’t make it up!” Sometimes, it’s laugh-out-loud ridiculous. Sometimes, it’s dangerously absurd. And sometimes,
You Can’t Make It Up – Year-End Thank You and A Call To Action Read More »
Art projects pop up everywhere during the holidays as children enjoy creating masterpieces to celebrate the season. But on one particular day, a tiny craft item led to a major discovery—and a much safer winter break for four children. It all started with a seemingly routine event: registering a new family in our school. The
And a Little Child Shall Lead Them… Right to a Meth Lab Read More »
Happy Thanksgiving Weekend! In the spirit of gratitude and turkey-stuffed memories, today’s You Can’t Make It Up moment takes us back to my early days as an elementary principal. It’s one of those sweet memories that warms your heart—while simultaneously making you shake your head and say, “You Can’t Make It Up!” The Thanksgiving Forecast
Operation Turken Trot (Yes, Turken!) Read More »
Starting a new job is always a rollercoaster of excitement and nerves, but nothing could have prepared one of my newest colleagues and me for our first and very memorable interaction! Getting to Know You My initial mission seemed simple—on paper, at least: visit schools, get to know the district, and prepare to hire someone
The Briefcase Bombshell Read More »
We’ve just weathered a major election season, which for many school districts also means the election of school board members. This week, a reader shares a You Can’t Make It Up moment as she welcomes a new board member! The election results were in, and in customary fashion, the superintendent reached out to the newly
You Can’t Make It Up: Welcome to the School Board! Read More »
One of my favorite songs from back in the day is Lionel Richie’s “Dancing on the Ceiling.” Honestly, that was the only explanation for finding a prom dress on the school roof. Yep, you read that right. You Can’t Make It Up! It was late fall, and our custodian was making his usual trip up
Lost and Found…On the Roof? School Mysteries You Can’t Make Up! Read More »
There’s nothing quite like taking school board members on a field trip to witness the magic happening in our classrooms. It’s one thing to hear about all the groundbreaking programs we’re running, but it’s a whole other experience to see them in action. Especially when those “actions” include very lifelike healthcare simulations—think white coats, beeping
When School Board Tours Get a Little Too Real Read More »
