Page 4 - AASBO EDGE Spring 2025

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

BY FRANCIE WOLFE-BAUMANN
Weathering the Storm:

Finding Enoughness Amid Constant Change
Francie Wolfe-Baumann
I learned early on that the only constant is change. While this is a topic in WELDS, it's not only women
Over the years, I've come to learn that not all who can struggle with this concept. It's the notion
change is created equal. Sometimes a minor shift that we re already enough, even when the to-do list
leads to unexpected waves, disrupting everything isn't done, or the latest initiative arrives with no
in its path. At other times, we prepare, and even warning. While the concept resonates, it can still
embrace it with success. be a concept that weighs heavily, especially in a
profession where our value often feels measured
I was once called a Change Agent. At the time, by output and endurance.
I wasn't sure whether it was praise or a polite
warning. I now see it as both recognition and a This has challenged me to think differently about
responsibility. In school business, change isn't change. I will always believe in progress. I will
optional, it's embedded in our roles. New laws, continue to champion improvements that serve
policies, ADM changes, and budget realities show students, staff, and systems. However, not every
up uninvited and we adapt because we must. change deserves our full capacity. Not every
change must be answered with more effort, more
School business officials are some of the most hours, and more sacrifice to be addressed.
adaptable professionals I know. We might grumble
with our peers, but we problem-solve and we find How do we weather the storm without losing
a path forward. That's what we do. Lately, the pace ourselves in it? We start by setting boundaries
of change feels relentless. Limited resources, high and being clear about what matters most. We lean
turnover, talent shortage and a growing list of into our AASBO network, collaborate with team
mandates have made it harder to catch our breath. members, ask for help, and make space for rest.
Weekends at the computer have become the norm We also need to provide grace to ourselves and our
rather than the exception. In stressful moments, teams since resilience isn't about doing it all, it's
I've found myself quietly wondering, "Am I doing about staying grounded in our purpose, even when
enough? Am I enough?" the winds shift.

"Enoughness is the foundation you Being a Change Agent doesn't mean embracing

stand on, it's not a finish line you every shift with open arms. It means leading with
intention, resisting the chaos when needed, and
earn." – Nicole Lance having the courage to set boundaries. Not because

we are giving up or not capable, but because we are
Nicole Lance introduced me to this term of choosing to sustain ourselves and our teams for the
enoughness. Nicole facilitates the Women's long haul. By focusing on meaningful change and
Executive Leadership Development Series embracing our own enoughness, we can navigate
(WELDS) and she covers this topic extensively. any storm that comes our way.

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4 THE EDGE SPRING 2025