The first confession is that although I drive a car (truck) and admire all types of classic and current cars, I am no expert on the internal workings of any motorized vehicle. Like most, I admire the knowledge of those who not only service cars, but can restore vehicles from literal neglect to a rejuvenated master piece (insert favorite Tik Tok Videos) However, when I was reflecting on this personal project, the idea of a spark plug resonated with the goals of this blog and my journey.

A spark plug is a critical component to any engine requiring a “spark” that ignites combustion bringing power to the engine…now remember my confession—I’m no mechanic—but the purpose of that small spark resonates with me. Great ideas often begin the same way: with a SPARK!

People often ask what my greatest strengths are as an educator, former principal, and Chief Innovation Officer. For years, I wasn’t sure. I could list qualities like competitiveness, relationship-building, vision, organization, instructional design, strategic risk-taking, or charisma. They all described parts of my leadership, but none captured my purpose.

That changed when I revisited my personal mission statement:

To build capacity in a learning community that challenges the status quo, achieves academic success, and empowers greatness in every individual.

I wrote those words during my first principalship in Tyler ISD, and they have guided my work for more than a decade. Over time, though, I realized something was missing. I don’t just want to build capacity—I want to be the SPARK that ignites it.

That is what is driving next step in my professional and personal journey…..like a spark plug, generating a spark that ignites ideas and drive in myself and others. Through a review of past experiences and new opportunities, these post are simply an acknowledgment of the SPARK. The SPARK that inspires, the SPARK that innovates, the SPARK that empowers, the SPARK that creates ripples, the SPARK that changed a life, the SPARK that hasn’t yet happened, but might change the World!

So lets Be the SPARK!