Board reflects on philosophy, role during motivating retreat

Members of the Board of Education and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Janet Warden engaged in a Board Retreat and workshop session Monday, in which the members worked to increase collaboration, build a greater understanding of their responsibilities and identify goals and priorities for the coming school year.
John Perricone, a teacher, inspirational speaker and author of “Zen and the Art of Public School Teaching,” acted as facilitator for the session. Perricone discussed with the group topics centered on educational identity and motivations, providing a lens through which the board can focus its efforts.
Vice President Erin Misasi called the retreat “an energizing and thought-provoking experience.” She praised Perricone’s energy throughout the nearly two-hour session.
“He posed questions that encouraged us to reflect on our inspirations, our philosophical identities and what motivates us to serve in our roles,” she said. “Most importantly, he pushed us to think deeply about who we are as leaders and how we can make a meaningful impact on our students, staff and community.”
Perricone introduced the idea of shoshin, or “fresh mind,” a Buddhist concept of approaching each meeting, event or task with the same eager enthusiasm and open curiosity as a beginner. 
“It was a great reminder to lead with positive energy, gratitude and an open mind, never losing sight of the privilege it is to serve our students, schools and community,” President Kelly Borrelle said.
While Perricone has been a professional speaker for nearly a quarter-century, engaging with countless rooms filled with educators, Monday marked his first Board of Education retreat.
“I was struck by what motivates someone to take on a role like this,” he said afterward, noting the commitment needed to do the volunteer job. “We often talk about the ‘power’ of leadership, but sitting with this board reminded me that power is also responsibility. The decisions they make have the potential to shape the experiences, opportunities and futures of thousands of students, families, educators and an entire community.”
“What an extraordinary responsibility to carry — and what a privilege it was to spend time with people who have chosen to carry it,” he said.
After the session with Perricone, the board members discussed their meeting schedule for the upcoming year and the topics they would like to address at each, as well as the responsibilities each would serve on board committees. They also reviewed their strategic goals.
The retreat each summer is an important opportunity for the board members, including those newly elected to the group, to hone their priorities and roles within the school district, which, Borrelle said, were sharpened by their facilitator’s message.
“John Perricone reminded us as Board of Education trustees why we chose to take on this role in the first place,” she said. “It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges and lose sight of the purpose.”