Resigning as principal is often more confronting than applying for the job in the first place. After months of quiet deliberation, once the new appointment is accepted, you’re suddenly faced with the difficult task of telling your community. The news often comes as a shock. For many, it’s the first they’ve heard that you were even considering a move.
Some are happy. Some are disappointed. Some are happy for you, but sad for the school. Others begin to reflect on what leadership change might mean for them. And some want to know what’s wrong. Why would you want to leave them?
I found this moment deeply personal. I had poured everything into the school, leading from the front, supporting from the side, and walking behind. Telling my staff that I was leaving to take up a position overseas was not easy.
There are layers to the resignation process. Once my appointment and start date were confirmed, I followed Stephen Covey’s principle of “beginning with the end in mind.” That end was the day I flew out to join my new school.
From there, I worked backwards.
Four weeks before my last day, I set a final date to submit my resignation. That gave me time to plan how and when to inform my team and the broader community. Simple in theory but far more emotional in practice.
Sharing the news with staff was daunting. Our years together had been filled with professional growth and genuine relationships. I had seen colleagues flourish in their roles and navigate personal milestones. I took the time to prepare a short resignation speech, enough to share the news and express my thanks.
It helped me honour the moment.
The next challenge is speaking to the students at the farewell assembly. But that’s a story for another day.
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Good luck with the last few weeks in your school. A wonderful achievement and a credit to you. Take time to enjoy the accolades.
I can’t believe you are really leaving us Jake. I just feel like you are going on a holiday!!
Thanks Maree. There are times I feel the same. Looking forward to sharing the adventure with you.