For over 30 years international school leaders, teachers, and counselors have come together for PTC professional learning experiences. Each day of every program begins with a “pearl of wisdom,” a “nugget of knowledge,” or a “gem of inspiration” from one of the participants. We are delighted to offer our readers around the world these powerful stories, insights, and strategies, all dedicated to our shared mission of ever more and better learning for our children.
In this Pearl, Steve shares a reminder that cuts through the noise of back-to-school planning: prioritize wellbeing, both yours and your students’. Drawing from his years of experience across five international schools and a year marked by tragedy and reflection, Steve challenges educators to pause and ask, “How can I be a healthier person next year?” He emphasizes the importance of intentional self-care and balance, reminding us that “the most effective leaders I’ve worked with were masters of self-care, nutrition, exercise, balance, and boundaries.”
He encourages educators not only to reflect on their own energy and health, but also to tune in to how their students are doing—physically, emotionally, and mentally. Wellbeing, he reminds us, is foundational. “This thing that we're all doing called school will not work well when we and our students are overburdened.” Steve leaves us with a challenge to rest well and return renewed, ready to lead with awareness, compassion, and care.
Steve Petraglia is the Director of high school counseling at Saigon South International School in Vietnam.
