'The Time is Always Right to do What is Right'

​Carlson Elementary School chooses a new slogan for their staff T-shirts every year, but this year felt different. Two years ago we believed in the power of yet. Last year we repeated to students "In a world where you can be anything, be kind." But this year, with all of our new challenges in our world today, the weight of our responsibility and roles as educators is even more apparent.

Carlson staff submitted suggestions for our slogan and then voted. The suggestions had a common theme: the time to wait is over; this is the year for action; the value of school is more important than ever; the year to change old habits and become better people, educators and community members.

The winner for the T-shirt quote was overwhelming: "The time is always right to do what is right." The quote was made famous by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who said it in one of his last sermons. During the sermon, he described a triple revolution: a technological revolution, a revolution in weaponry, and a human rights revolution. He urged his audience for action with expediency, stating, "The time is always right to do what is right."

Although the triple revolution may be of different circumstances, we are facing another moment in history where our current actions will be taught in history books for decades to come. As educators, we provide so much for our community. We provide learning, of course. But this year has reminded us of the many roles we play in the well-being and development of young minds.

Having some of our students in our buildings and some learning from home, we are reminded of the vast array of challenges that we are facing daily. However, when I talk to my staff and ask them how they are feeling, they respond with full a hearted, "I am happy to be here, because I am doing important work for these students."

When I stand outside every morning and open doors for the parent drop-off line, I see students with their masks covering their faces. I say good morning to each and every one, and I can see the smiles in their eyes when I tell them to have a great day. We may not always be able to see it, but Carlson's staff and students are smiling from our hearts.

We have so many things challenging us out of our comfort zones and moving us out of traditional patterns that have been set for education since one-room school houses. But there is one thing that remains the same for Carlson. The time is always right to do what is right. The time is now.

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Kristina Miller

Mrs. Kristina Miller is the principal of Carlson Elementary School. This is her second year as Carlson principal. She previously was an assistant principal at Rolling Green Elementary School and a high school social studies teacher for 10 years.