Twenty-four years ago, I walked into my first school as an educator—nervous, excited, and filled with purpose. I believed in the power of education. I believed in the possibility of change. I believed I could make a difference.
Back then, distractions were simple: a crumpled note passed behind a teacher’s back, a quiet whisper across desks. Parents showed up for conferences. Community support—while never perfect—felt stronger. And although teaching was always challenging, there was a deeper respect for the profession.
But so much has changed.
Technology now moves faster than we can keep up. Parental involvement has waned. And the criticism? It’s louder, harsher, and more relentless than ever.
In my most recent role as Superintendent, I’ve witnessed something even more alarming.
Our educators—passionate, capable, deeply committed—are exhausted.
I see it in their eyes. Hear it in their voices.
Staff meetings that once buzzed with energy are now clouded by frustration and fatigue.
They’re juggling too much, stretched too thin, and trying to hold it all together.
They feel overworked, undervalued, and often completely drained.
And it’s not just our teachers—our school leaders feel it too.
And that breaks my heart.
Because I know what’s possible when educators feel empowered, energized, and deeply connected to their purpose.
That’s when I knew—something had to change.
There Is Always H.O.P.E.
But not the kind of hope that’s wishful thinking or passive waiting.
This is intentional H.O.P.E.—a system rooted in self-reflection and designed to strengthen self-awareness and build self-efficacy: the belief that you have the power to overcome challenges, accomplish your goals, and shape a brighter future.
Why does that matter?
Because when individuals believe in their own ability to create change—self-efficacy—they unlock the power of collective efficacy. And that is the fuel that drives real, lasting transformation in our schools and communities.
So I created a system of H.O.P.E., built on four transformational pillars:
- H – Habits that Empower: Small, consistent actions that protect your peace and bring joy back into your day.
- O – Optimistic Outlook: Not toxic positivity, but choosing to believe there is always a way forward.
- P – Purpose, Passion, and Perseverance: Reconnect with your purpose. Ignite the spark within you. And hold steady—especially when the path gets hard.
- E – Excellence as a Lifestyle: Not perfection—but a daily commitment to growth, improvement, and learning.
Building Systems That Restore Passion
One school leader I worked with showed me just how powerful this system can be.
When we met, she was on the edge of burnout.
The spark that once made her come alive? Nearly gone.
She was overwhelmed. Exhausted. Questioning if she could keep going.
But we didn’t overhaul her entire world overnight. We started small.
Tiny shifts in her daily habits.
A little space to breathe.
A reconnection to the purpose that first brought her into education.
And slowly, something changed.
Joy returned to her work. She had a sense of calm. Space to connect and create.
Her students noticed. Her staff noticed. She noticed.
That’s the power of the H.O.P.E. system.
As James Clear says in Atomic Habits,
“You don’t rise to the level of your goals; you fall to the level of your systems.”
And when your system is built on hope, purpose, and intentional action—amazing things can happen.
You Don’t Have to Stay in Survival Mode
If you’re feeling stuck, worn down, or like your passion is
flickering out—I want you to know: there is another way.
You don’t have to stay in survival mode.
Together, we can build your system of self-efficacy.
One habit. One mindset. One purpose-filled day at a time.
We’re building a Community of H.O.P.E.,
and there’s a place for you here.
Join us at sparkhopeedu.com.
Let’s reignite your spark. Let’s transform your impact.
It starts from the inside out.
Download your free self reflection tool here:
www.leadwithhope.net/selfreflect
Let’s spark H.O.P.E.—for ourselves,
and for the future starting today!
Lead with H.O.P.E.: Building a System of Self Efficacy
About Brandi Kelly, Ed.D, LCSW
Dr. Brandi Kelly brings over 20 years of
heart, hustle, and hands-on experience
to the world of education.
A licensed clinical social worker
and Maxwell Certified Coach,
she’s worn many hats —
from school social worker to
principal to superintendent.
Along the way, she’s been honored with
the NAESP Distinguished Elementary
School Principal Award
and Middle School Principal of the Year.
Dr. Kelly is proud to be part of inspiring networks like the Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA), Teach Better Network, Illinois Principals Association (IPA), and the Educational League of Illinois (ELI). She loves sparking change through speaking, writing, and hosting the Lead with HOPE podcast — where she shares real conversations about leadership, resilience, and growth.Follow her journey at www.sparkhopeedu.com and on your favorite social media platforms.
