As this school year comes to a close, I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting.
Not just on this year, but on the past 15 years.
As you probably know by now, this will be my final year serving Crossroads as superintendent after helping co-found these schools many years ago.
And more than anything, I keep coming back to one feeling:
Gratitude.
For the students.
For the families.
For the staff.
For the community that built this together.
Because none of this was ever built alone.
What I’ve Learned About Schools
Over the years, I’ve learned that schools are about so much more than academics.
Yes, learning matters deeply.
But what students remember most is often how a place made them feel.
Whether they felt known.
Whether someone believed in them.
Whether they felt safe enough to grow.
I’ve seen how powerful it is when students walk into a building and feel like they belong there.
That changes everything.
What I’ve Learned About Students
I’ve watched students walk into Crossroads unsure of themselves and leave believing they can do hard things.
That transformation never gets old.
It happens slowly, over time.
A student gains confidence.
Finds their voice.
Starts taking risks.
Begins to believe they are capable of more.
And so often, it starts because an adult kept believing in them before they fully believed in themselves.
There were hard days too. Every school has them.
But even in difficult moments, our students continued to grow — and this community kept showing up for them.
What I’ve Learned About Leadership
Leadership has very little to do with having all the answers.
It has everything to do with continuing to care, especially on the hard days.
It means listening.
Adjusting.
Growing alongside other people.
And after 15 years, one thing is clearer to me than ever:
Crossroads was never built by one person and it will never depend on one person.
It was built by people who believed students deserved something meaningful.
And that belief is still very strong here.
Looking Ahead
As I prepare to step away from this role, I do so with a full heart and a deep sense of hope.
Because I know what kind of people make up this community.
I see the care our teachers bring every day.
I see students stepping into leadership.
I see families continuing to show up for one another.
I’m also confident Crossroads is in very good hands with Dr. Miles stepping into this role. She leads with care, integrity, and a deep commitment to the values that have always guided this community.
The future of Crossroads is bright because the foundation is strong.
Not just the programs or the buildings — but the people.
And after 15 years, that may be the thing I’m most proud of!
Tysie McDowell
