August has been full of new beginnings, back-to-school conversations, and more than a little Perfect Chaos. Before we step into September, I wanted to make sure you did not miss what has been happening.
The inaugural edition of From the Front Porch arrived on August 1. In The Work of Beginning, I reflected on leaving Carson-Newman, beginning my new chapter at UTC, and learning to hold gratitude for what has been alongside hope for what is coming next.
The Perfect Chaos Podcast also returned with two back-to-school episodes:
You Don’t Have to Be Ready for Everything is a reminder that beginning well does not require anticipating every problem, perfecting every plan, or having every answer before students arrive.
Set the Tone, Then Learn the People moves beyond the first-day checklist to consider how expectations, routines, consistency, trust, and genuine curiosity about our students shape the classroom we build together.
LISTEN TO THE PERFECT CHAOS PODCAST
And there is more coming.
The September edition of From the Front Porch, Settled in the Chaos, will explore what it means to find your place even when life has not become quiet or easy. The September podcast will continue that conversation from another direction as we consider relationships, accountability, boundaries, and how educators can create spaces where students know they are seen without abandoning expectations.
If you have not already subscribed to From the Front Porch, now is a wonderful time to pull up a chair. New issues arrive on the first of each month, filled with thoughtful reflections, practical resources, honest encouragement, and a glimpse of what is coming through the door next.
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There is always room for one more on the porch.