Choose To Be Great: Joy in School (Y2:E11)

~ Angelo DelliSanti

Simone Biles said, “You don’t have to be serious all the time to do a good job.” These words hold profound wisdom, especially in the context of teaching and learning.

In the pursuit of excellence, we sometimes forget the power of joy. Here are a few thoughts inspired by Biles’ statement:

  1. Unlock Potential: Allowing moments of levity in our schools – in our classrooms, as well as our faculty meetings – helps create an environment where students and staff feel safe to explore and unlock their full potential.
  2. Creative Learning: Fun and laughter can be powerful tools for teaching, aiding in the retention of knowledge and fostering a love for learning. This applies to our staff as much as it does to our students.
  3. Balance Matters: A balanced approach to education leads to well-rounded people who excel in all aspects of life. How are you promoting and modeling the balance we all need in life?
  4. Team Spirit: Encouraging a sense of camaraderie among students and staff makes the educational journey more enjoyable and rewarding.
  5. Embrace Imperfection: Remember that mistakes and laughter are part of the learning process. It’s okay to not be serious all the time.

As we lead our schools into the future, let’s not forget that a bit of humor, play, and joy can lead to exceptional results. Balancing seriousness with moments of levity can be the secret ingredient to excelling as a school.

Choose to be Great!

Angelo

Unknown's avatar

Published by Angelo DelliSanti

“Education? You don’t want to do that with your life. You’ve got other plans.” That’s what Angelo DelliSanti’s high school counselor told him his senior year. And she was right—at first. Angelo had spent three years preparing to become a U.S. Navy officer. But an internship with a math teacher during his senior year changed everything. Helping struggling students master algebra sparked a passion for education that would shape his career. Over the next 15 years, Angelo served as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal, returning to his alma mater to teach World History and later advancing to leadership roles. As a principal, Angelo implemented the Capturing Kids’ Hearts process, leading to remarkable academic gains, increased scholarships, record-breaking graduation rates, and improved school culture. These achievements earned him recognition as the Rowan-Salisbury Schools Principal of the Year in 2018. In 2022, Angelo joined Capturing Kids’ Hearts as a Leadership Solutions Strategist where he is dedicated to working together with school leaders to create remarkable schools. He holds a Bachelor’s in History and Secondary Education from UNC Charlotte, where he was a North Carolina Teaching Fellow. He also completed a Master’s in School Administration and completed all the required coursework for a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from his alma mater, earning the Outstanding Student Philip Morris Educational Fellowship in 2017. Angelo lives in North Carolina with his wife, Kasey, whom he married in 2008. Together, they enjoy escapes to the mountains and beaches. Angelo’s passions include golf, non-fiction books, cooking, and sharing meals filled with laughter and connection around the table.

Leave a comment