My One Word 2026: Tenacious

 

My one word for 2026 is Tenacious! Tenacious to me means to never give up and to persevere through challenges. This word resonated with me because I want to be proactive this year in how I approach challenges. I want to have a positive mindset in facing adversity. As educators and educational leaders we face many challenges everyday. Having the right mindset, and being tenacious, will help face all challenges head on. 

Tenacity in Educational Leadership 

To be tenacious in educational leadership is to show up, even on difficult days. It's making tough decisions while staying student-centered and holding high expectations without giving up on people. It's about being visible and present, especially during challenging moments. There are many challenges that will be faced this year by educational leaders. Be tenacious in your leadership and tackle one challenge at a time. 

Tenacity with Students 

Having tenacity with students is refusing to give up on them. We have students who struggle both behaviorally and academically. Behavior is a way of communication. Don't give up on your most difficult students, find out the root of the behavior. There is always a reason. Be tenacious in finding it. Celebrate wins with students, no matter how small and build on them. Always remember relationships (both building and maintaining them) matter. 

Tenacity with Staff

Having tenacity with staff is supporting teachers while still pushing for growth. Stand by your staff during tough parent conversations or difficult days. Encourage perseverance without burning them out. Tenacity is not just pushing harder, it's knowing when to pause, reflect or adjust. 

Tenacity in School Culture

Tenacity in school culture is being consistent in expectations and communication. Reflecting on staff needs and addressing them is key. Focus on a long term vision, not just a quick fix for issues. Maintaining a positive and supportive school culture is crucial. To me, the culture of a school is the most important aspect of education. You should be tenacious in making sure the culture of your school is positive.

What Tenacity is Not

Tenacity is not perfection or working nonstop. Tenacity includes reflection and growth. Never giving up doesn't mean you can't pause and reflect and alter your plan. Battling through challenges means getting there how and when you can, as long as you don't give up. Recognizing when you have to pause is important. 

How I Will Live Tenaciously This Year

I am committing to approaching challenges with a positive mindset. I will avoid becoming overwhelmed by prioritizing and tackling challenges one at a time. This mindset will help guide my decisions. It will show up in my interactions with students, staff and families. I will also make time for reflection and growth. The goal is to be better each and everyday. 

Remember tenacity isn't about never failing, it's about choosing to get back up for the people who need us the most. 

What word will anchor you this year?

What keeps you going when the work gets hard?

I'm rooting for all of us to have a successful 2026!