is a fierce advocate for the respect and rights of school leaders. She previously served as an accomplished principal and completely understands the intricacies of running a building with so many diverse constituencies. What I’ve come to realize is that the position of CPAA President requires a special temperament—the ability to listen thoughtfully, think carefully, and speak forcefully. Like her predecessors, Kia is able to do all three. One thing is clear, school leaders are never not busy. I imagine that even when they try to take time off for themselves, there’s likely a phone call, text, or email that manages to interrupt well- earned rest and relaxation. School leaders are committed to their communities and they need an advocate looking out for them every step of the way. CPAA is that advocate, and over the past 30 years, successive leaders have worked hard to create the climate the organization now finds itself in—at the edge of something that has the potential to bring generational change to what it means to serve as a Chicago public school leader. The collective bargaining agreement currently being negotiated will finally begin to put on paper the promises, protections, and policies that will allow principals and assistant principals to do what they love most— passionately serve the students, teachers, and families in their schools. This has been a long time coming. My time at CPAA has been rewarding; I am
inspired by serving alongside people who are genuinely trying to make a difference in their school communities. Through it all we’ve experienced great joys and humbling setbacks. These days, amidst all of the world’s uncertainties, it’s hard to predict what new challenges are going to come our way, but we’ll face those challenges together like we always have, with grit and determination. I am grateful to still have a front-row seat.
Kent Lau Direction of Operations klau@mycpaa.com Kent Lau
These days, amidst all of the world’s uncertainties, it’s hard to predict what new challenges are going to come our way, but we’ll face those challenges together like we always have, with grit and determination.
CPAA IS VOICE AND POWER REALIZED • • 47
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