As the school year draws to a close, we find ourselves in a familiar yet powerful moment of reflection. Each year brings its own challenges, but this one has tested us in new and unexpected ways. And here we are—stronger, wiser, and more connected than ever.
We’ve navigated uncertainty with resilience. We’ve adapted, grown, and supported one another through every twist and turn. As we pause to reflect, it’s important to ask: What are you thankful for?
Gratitude is more than a polite gesture—it’s a transformative practice. You may already know how meaningful it is to hear someone say, “thank you!” to you. It validates our efforts and lifts our spirits. But did you know that expressing gratitude also benefits the giver? A 2023 meta-analysis found that cultivating gratitude leads to greater life satisfaction, improved mental health, more positive emotions, and reduced anxiety. In other words, when we give thanks, we grow ourselves.
“When I started counting my blessings, my whole life turned around.” – Willie Nelson
I am deeply thankful for the BOLD leaders of NCSM— whether you are a teacher leader, an instructional coach, a PL provider, a curriculum writer, a teacher educator, or one of the other important leaders in math education— we have worked tirelessly over this year to ensure that every educator and student feels seen, supported, and empowered. Your commitment to excellence in mathematics education for each and every educator and student has made a lasting impact. You’ve created spaces where people feel they belong, where they are cared for, and where they are reminded that they deserve access to and success in mathematics that positively impacts their lives and improves our world. Thank you!
“This is a wonderful day. I have never seen this one before.” – Maya Angelou
Let us carry that spirit of wonder and appreciation into the days ahead. Whether you’re celebrating milestones or simply making it through, take a moment to acknowledge the good. Share your gratitude with a colleague, a student, a friend. Let them know they matter.
As we close this chapter and look ahead to the next, may we continue to lead with gratitude, courage, and compassion. Thank you for all you’ve done—and all you continue to do—to make our community stronger.
With heartfelt appreciation,
— Katey Arrington, NCSM President
“Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” – Melanie Beattie
Diniz, G., Korkes, L., Tristão, L. S., Pelegrini, R., Bellodi, P. L., & Bernardo, W. (2023). The effects of gratitude interventions: a systematic review and meta-analysis. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10393216/#:~:text=and%20systematic%20reviews.-,CONCLUSION,emotions%20in%20the%20general%20population.
