Reigniting the Spark: Finding Joy in Education at Joy Jam

It’s been almost five years since I last stood in front of a room full of eager educators, all excited to embark on a new school year. My last year in the district was the 2019-2020 school year, a time when I was filled with hope and ready to implement innovative practices that would serve my students and teachers. Little did I know the world around me was shifting in ways I couldn't yet grasp. This was a significant challenge for someone who finds grounding in the literal sense of feeling the earth beneath my feet in every new place I visit.

So, when I received a LinkedIn message from the one and only Dr. George Philhower about Joy Jam, it felt like a true gift. Joy Jam, a conference organized by Eastern Hancock Schools in partnership with the IDOE, is a testament to the power of finding joy and purpose in our current place. I was thrilled to be part of this event, leading a session titled "Finding Joy Where You Stand."

Joy Jam was a two-day conference full of professional development and networking that supported district educators. It allowed educators to collaborate, share ideas, and gain new insights to enhance their teaching practices.

Sharing my journey of finding joy daily was both exhilarating and terrifying. There were moments when I feared the room would be empty, but to my surprise, it was filled with educators who listened and laughed at my jokes. They allowed me to be my authentic self with my bright orange shoes and green glasses. This environment allowed me to share experiences that had once been frightening—experiences that changed my life and made me a better educator, listener, learner, and leader.

But let's focus on Superintendent George Philhower: Meeting Superintendent Philhower at one of my first IEI events was pivotal. He radiates positive energy and light and is always eager to help, even when I couldn’t quite articulate what I needed during my early days with IEI. George and his team have developed an impressive variety of programs that support all students, ensuring that every learner is reached and valued.

Every person I engaged with at Joy Jam had glowing testimonials about the innovative work George has done in their district. To see such a strong commitment to servant leadership across the entire district, and to witness an auditorium full of learners on a summer day, was truly inspiring. George, continue this amazing work! The joy you and your team bring was palpable in every hallway, at registration, and in your interactions with students and staff.

Happiness is often a reaction to specific external factors, but joy is a constant state of being. Joy Jam was a powerful reminder that I can indeed reignite my spark and prepare myself for the next adventure as a bright ray of sunshine.

I believe everyone should experience Joy Jam, and I cannot wait to see what next year brings. Together, let’s continue to ignite the spark of joy in education!