A Silver Lining in the Tough Conversations

Last evening I was out for a beautiful ride on the road back from Ashburnham and was reflecting on a couple of tough conversations that I had to have during the day.

One of the challenges of this time of year as a school administrator at a popular school like Winchendon is having at least once a day to explain to an anxious student or family that we don’t have any spaces available for this fall. Unfortunately, this conversation is generally with someone who has come to believe that Winchendon is the best environment for them and one where they will thrive.

While these conversations are hard and can be draining, there has also been a real silver lining for me as I listen to make sure that I understand what people think is special about Winchendon. It is very gratifying to hear from students and parents who have been here why they are so anxious to return and to also hear from those that have not yet been here but hope to come on the impression of Winchendon they have gained.

I am also pleased that they are all citing consistent factors with a focus on the strong faculty support, the personalized approach and the attention to building strong academic habits. For those that have been here, they also talk about Winchendon being the place that they can do and be their best.

All of this just takes the sting out of what are otherwise hard conversations and makes me appreciate all the more being associated with this terrific school.