In this Pearl, Michelle reflects on nearly resigning from a new leadership role just three weeks after starting, following the emotional toll of being evacuated from Sudan during conflict. Faced with burnout and unexpected challenges, she was prompted by her Head of School to consider a different path, changing her perspective. Choosing to “do a 180,” Michelle began reframing problems as possibilities, focusing on building trust with teachers, strengthening curriculum alignment, and expanding professional learning. Her insight is clear, “the most powerful shift isn’t always solving the biggest problem; it’s choosing to see every challenge as an opportunity for growth and service.”
Professional positions cited were the ones held at the time of recording. The positions and schools of those quoted may have since changed.
Michelle Simpson is the curriculum/teaching and learning director/coordinator at Ellesmere Muscat International School.
