Our Education Division has been working on strategic planning with The National Charter Schools Institute. A key part of the experience has been reconnecting with our “why” in education, a reflection on the personal purpose that drives our work. We’re excited to share our stories in upcoming Sponsor Updates.
This month, we’re featuring Sandra Harris, School Improvement Representative.
What originally drew you to a career in education?
I discovered, even at an early age, that learning felt meaningful only when it could be shared. I loved helping classmates, especially younger students understand directions, I enjoyed reading aloud, and pretending to “teach” at home with notebooks and stuffed animals lined up like a classroom. School wasn’t just a place I attended; it was a place where I felt purposeful.
Becoming an educator was not a sudden decision, it was the natural result of a lifelong desire to be effective. What began as a childhood dream became a mission, a profession rooted in purpose.
What motivates you to come to work every day?
As the years passed, that early interest grew into a clear sense of direction. Teachers became role models, not only because of what they taught, but because of how they made me feel. I noticed the impact that a caring educator could have. That impact motivated me as a child and continues to motivate me as an adult and is my ‘why” for coming to work every day. I learned many years ago that, “It’s not always what you say, but how you make a person feel!”
What do you enjoy most about your role at BCHF?
Having the means and opportunity to support, encourage, change confidence, influence patience and open doors for all learners, especially struggling learners, is what I enjoy most about my role at BCHF.
How do you define your “why”? Is there a particular moment that reinforced it?
Balancing high expectations during tough times can be stressful, but I consciously reconnect to my “why” during those challenging times with the mindset of a sense of purpose. I am by no means perfect, however I always show up 100% with a positive and cheerful outlook because I understand that the long-term impact of my work is the goal. I remove “me,” from the scenario because the service that I perform is not about me. Through my work at BCHF, I have learned to be a servant leader by understanding that leadership is not about authority or titles, but about service, trust, and impact..
How do you hope to continue growing in your role?
I will continue to grow and evolve in my current role by continuing to put our mission first, believing that when individuals are supported and uplifted, our schools thrive. The inspiration that drives me the most is the simple word, “positivity.” The positivity in a smile! The positivity in a kind act! The positivity in doing the right thing for the right reason! The positivity in wishing the best for others and supporting each other!
What is a quote or mantra you live by?
We all have heard the mantra, “hurt people hurt people,” I live by the mantra. “Empowered people empower others,” which inspires me through my daily life and daily work.
Grounded in the belief that empowered people empower others, Sandra’s “why” reminds us that when we lead with purpose, positivity, and service, the impact ripples far beyond ourselves.
Sandra leaves us with a challenge: “I challenge you to imagine a world where people unmistakably treat others, the way that they want to be unmistakably treated! Imagine!”