Author: ndsaintlouis

Learning through Leadership

Posted on by ndsaintlouis

I just completed my first year as building principal. It was the most challenging yet rewarding year of my career. I learned so much about myself through the many obstacles I had to overcome. Here are the top 10 things that I learned this year.

Top 10 things I learned this year:

  1. The most important part about leadership is that people matter. Treat people with kindness, be caring, and show support. In turn, teachers and staff will work hard for you. The same applies to teachers in the classroom and how they build relationships with their students.
  2. Be consistent with your actions (for yourself and others). Say what you mean and mean what you say and stick with it. People want leaders who are consistent even if they do not agree with everything they say and do.
  3. Integrity matters! Whether you are in the limelight or behind the scenes, people watch what you do.
  4. Hold people accountable. Critical conversations are not easy for most, but they are necessary. When you hold others accountable, the more respect will earn you as a leader. 
  5. Have clear systems and structures in place. Oftentimes, in a classroom, it may appear that students desire chaos and freedom; however, they want systems and structures. The same applies for leading a school. Schools thrive better when there are clear systems and structures in place that help faculty and staff work smarter and not harder.
  6. Lead by doing (servant leadership). Be in the trenches and not on the sidelines when it comes to the work.
  7. Build capacity and develop future leaders. Think long down the line and how systems can be sustainable after you leave your position.
  8. Have a clear vision that can be articulated well. The school community wants to know where you are taking them and how you will get them there.
  9. Have fun and be transparent. People want to know you are human and enjoy a good time too.
  10. Always walk in excellence. Many obstacles will come against you as a school leader. I took many hits on a daily basis. I had to constantly remind myself to walk in excellence. Students and teachers are constantly watching leaders and how they respond. They will remember how you treat them and how you overcome adversity.

Remember: “There are no good schools without good leaders.” – Arne Duncan

Where My Identity Lies

The author reflects on their personal transformation, recognizing identity shifts that occurred quietly through struggles in 2024-2025. Emphasizing the importance of personal purpose over job titles, they find confidence and fulfillment rooted in faith. Understanding that true identity stems from within, they encourage others to embrace their inherent worth.

ndsaintlouis's avatar by ndsaintlouis

Chosen, not cheated

Lately I have been having a party. A party that I am the only one invited to. A party where I am the center of attention. A party where I am able to feel everything that I want to feel and do what I want to do. At this party, I can say what I…

ndsaintlouis's avatar by ndsaintlouis

End of year reflections

I cannot believe the year is almost over, and we are about to enter a new year. When things were going well, it seemed like 2024 flew by, but when I was going through some rough patches, time seemed to slow down. Regardless, another year is among us, and I am blessed to be able…

ndsaintlouis's avatar by ndsaintlouis

Live in the now

Posted on by ndsaintlouis

So often I hear people say, “tomorrow is not promised, live your life to the fullest now.” We all know that one day our life here on earth will end; yet, what we tell ourselves and what are actions show can be two different things. We know that tomorrow is not guaranteed, yet we all spend so much of our time worrying about the future. Our worry can be around when things will happen, how they will happen, and who will be in our life when they happen. 

Ultimately, worry implies that we don’t quite trust that God is big enough, powerful enough, or loving enough to take care of what’s happening in our lives. We also worry when we feel things are not in our control.

Over the last couple of years, I have wasted so much time worrying and focusing my time on things I cannot control. I have worried about school, jobs, relationships and how they were going to work out, and various situations that I have been in. 

Now, I spend my time and energy living in the now. I focus on what I can do right now to be a better person. I focus on how I can make an impact in the lives around me right now. I focus on what I can control in the present. I focus on the people in my life right now. I focus on the things that bring me joy. 

Living in the now has allowed me to live in a much more peaceful place. I stopped worrying about how and when things will work out and fully trust God’s plans for my life will continue working out for my good. 

So, my question to you is, are you living in the now or wasting time worrying about how things will work out later? Enjoy today! Live, laugh, and love right now. Remind yourself, “do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34 

You are stronger than you think

It’s now my fourth year as a principal. I still cannot believe I am where I am, and the work God is doing through me. Being a principal has been the best job I have ever had. I love being with my students and seeing the direct impact that my leadership has on my school.…

ndsaintlouis's avatar by ndsaintlouis

Dear Mama….

Mother’s Day can be a bittersweet time for some and a joyous occasion for others. Many people have lost a mother and this time of the year may be difficult. No matter your circumstance, it’s a gift to celebrate Mother’s Day. To celebrate the person who gave you life and the life, or lives, that…

ndsaintlouis's avatar by ndsaintlouis

What defines you?

I believe that if someone asked the people closest to me to describe me using 3-5 words, one of those words would be dependable. I have always been the person people could count on. I am the dependable daughter, dependable sister, dependable friend, and dependable employee. I do not like letting people down. I want…

ndsaintlouis's avatar by ndsaintlouis

Walking by faith…..My Story

Posted on by ndsaintlouis

Two years ago, I started to get an itch that I was ready to leave my current position. I felt like it was time for me to grow and move onto the next level. I had finished a Principal Residency program, and everyone told me I was more than ready for a Principalship. I went to an interview for a job and weeks later I found out I only made halfway through the interview process. The feedback I was given said that I was not as ready as I thought. I used that feedback as an opportunity to grow. 

The following year, I changed leadership positions at my school and used the feedback as fuel to be a better leader. That year was trying. I had a lot of challenging times. I made mistakes and experienced some setbacks. During this year, I started to think about moving. I wanted to branch out and see what else was out in the world and expand my horizon. I applied for the licensure in a couple of other states. Then the pandemic happened. I still had a thought that I could still move, but God had different plans. I was also being prepared to move up in my school. I didn’t think I was ready to take on such a huge role, but I told myself that I would do it afraid and trust God. 

I found myself in a similar situation as the year before sitting in front of an interview panel. Then, after the final interview, I got the phone call that I had been waiting for. I was told that I was not selected. I was devastated. I just knew it was my time. But God said, not yet!

I humbled myself and picked my face off the floor and went back to my role as an Academy Principal. I lead and served all year because I knew God had a purpose. The year was challenging with schools being virtual and a lot of transitions, but we made it through the year. During the year, the desire of wanting to move never left. I had one position that I thought I was going to get, but that didn’t work out. I applied, applied, and applied and nothing. I struggled at times trying to understand what God was doing. But I was reminded to constantly trust Him. 

Towards the end of the school year, I was approached to do some consulting work in Little Rock, AR. As I was preparing for the training, I was told that there may be some potential leadership opportunities. I just sent my resume in faith. This was around the same time I sold my house in faith because I knew God had a plan and I wanted to be ready. I went to facilitate the training all the meanwhile, God was positioning the right people and opportunities. He was at work orchestrating on my behalf. As I continued to trust God, doors started opening that I couldn’t even imagine. I had my Arkansas license for another job opportunity, so God already knew before I even thought of this opportunity. Next thing I know, I was interviewing for a Principal position. 

I stepped out in faith and put my house on the market on May 1st without having a job in sight. On June 30th I was called and selected as a principal. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine things turning out the way they did. I continued to hold on to my faith and trusted God and he gave me more than I could ask or imaging. 

The God I serve is amazing. He may not come when you want Him, but He is always on time. Don’t ever underestimate the season you are in right now. God always has a purpose and a plan. I have was selected as the Principal of North Little Rock High School and I am walking in my purpose. Trust the process, have faith, God’s got you. He surely had me! 

Shift happens!

Posted on by ndsaintlouis

At many different times in our lives we will all experience waiting. We are waiting for a new job, a promotion, the right time to buy a home, the next step in a relationship, starting a family, and the list goes on. Waiting can be hard. It is a time that will stretch your character and faith. Waiting also forces you to trust something bigger than yourself and to be more patient. While we wait, we can either do so anxiously and frustrated. We try to rush the process only to end up at square one. On the other hand, we can wait expectantly and excitedly. We can be hopeful knowing that things will work at in the end. 

While you are waiting, are you expecting the shift to happen? Are you believing for the best? Are you trusting that the universe will give you the desires of your heart? Are you preparing yourself for what you are believing for? Are you trusting the process? Are you allowing yourself to grow and learn while you are expecting a change? Are you speaking life and focusing on the positive? 

You never know when your suddenly may happen. Suddenly you meet your mate. Suddenly, your family is expanding. Suddenly, you are promoted at your job. Suddenly, your debt is paid off. Suddenly, you are purchasing your new home. Suddenly, you are finishing school.

Shift happens when we least expect it during seasons of waiting. We all have to trust the process and believe that things will work out for our good. That does not mean that things will happen exactly as you want them to happen, but oftentimes, it is better than that. As you are waiting on your shift to happen, wait expectantly because you never know when your suddenly will happen. 

Be blessed!  

Sky is the Limit

Posted on by ndsaintlouis

The late rapper Notorious B.I.G said in his song Sky is the limit, “sky is the limit, and you know that you keep on just keep on pressing, sky is the limit, and you know that you can have what you want, be what you want.” To me that means that if you believe in yourself and you put the hard work in, you can accomplish what you set your mind to. 

Kamala Harris demonstrated this as being the first women of color to be sworn in as the Vice President of the United States on January 23, 2021. Like myself, I am sure people across the world had tears in their eyes as they watched this moment. She accomplished what many believed could not happen, but she knew that the sky is the limit. And now she is setting an example for millions of young people out there who want to accomplish their dreams. 

I am sure when my mom was 17 and she had a dream of making a difference in her home country, many people thought she was foolish. Now with prayers and hard work from herself and many others, she has managed to open a school, clinic and, mission home in Derac, Haiti. It took many years to accomplish her dreams, but she didn’t limit herself and has paved a way for our family. 

So, what is it that you are dreaming? Do you want to start your own business? Go back to school? Become a doctor? Be the first in your family to graduate from college? Publish a book? Run for office? Start a non-profit? Become a superintendent of a school district? Travel the world and do mission work? Whatever dreams are in your heart, remember that sky is the limit to accomplish them.

Don’t talk yourself out of what you can do. People do amazing things every day. Why can’t you be one of those people. Don’t discount yourself by thinking you are too young, too old, too limited, or too scared. 

Dare to dream big!!! And remember that the sky is the limit.

What shall you choose?

Posted on by ndsaintlouis

I think we can all summarize 2020 as unprecedented and chaotic. On the other hand, 2020 gave many of us the time and space to truly reflect and grow as individuals. When we are not busy with the hustle and bustle of life, we are forced to face ourselves. In 2020 there was a lot of loss (those who died in the pandemic, those who died from police brutality, riots, time outside the classroom, and not being able to connect with your loved ones). But there was so much to gain in 2020. The opportunity to learn something new, connect with those that you have not had a chance to connect with, learn new skills, organizing your home, and practicing self-care). Some people even bought homes, expanded their families, and started new jobs. Though tumultuous at time, 2020 still brought many great things. Life is all about the perspective you choose to look at things. 

As 2021 begins, what are the good things from 2020 that you can continue? Are there more relationships you want to repair? How about your walk with God, do you want to strengthen that? Is there a new skill you want to learn? How about getting your finances in order? Are you ready to take a big step? 

Oftentimes, we let the new year bring new resolutions, but continue to master the things that got you through 2020. Continue to grow and challenge yourself. Continue to let your light shine in this world. Continue to make ways for others. Continue being your best self. 

So, my challenge to you is to decide here and now how you want this year to go. 2021 will not wipe away all the challenges from 2020. We are still in a pandemic and battling COVID-19, we are still fighting racial injustice, and we are still in a tumultuous political climate (all eyes on Georgia). Regardless of how the world is going, you still get to decide.  The bible says, “This day I call the heavens and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live” (Deuteronomy 30:19-20). So, what will you decide? To focus on the negative, the loss, the despair OR focus on the positive, the new beginnings, the beauty in the world. 

Happy New Year! Here’s to 2021!

Walking in Excellence

Posted on by ndsaintlouis

This blog post came as a personal conviction of things I have gone through this year. I was reminded during my quiet time today to always walk in excellence. This sounds good in theory but can be difficult in action. Walking in excellence means giving people grace, always putting your best foot forward, forgiveness, selflessness, kindness/compassion, giving, and so much more. 

Walking in excellence at work

In the bible it states, “Whatever you do work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for man” (Colossians 3:23). This means that regardless of how your co-workers may treat your, your boss taking your for granted, unfair situation, not getting the promotion, or sometimes feeling that your passion for work is changing, it is important to continue to be your best. Show up with a good attitude. Continue to encourage others. Do your job to the best of your ability. You never know who is watching you or who you are blessing by giving your best. Helen Keller says it best, “be happy with what you have, while working for what you want.”

Walking in excellence in your relationships

Walking in excellence in your relationship means “doing unto others as you would have them do unto you (Matthew 7:12).” In other words, treat people how you want to be treated. This means loving unconditionally, forgiving even when it’s hard, listening to understand, being the better person, and showing grace. 

Walking in excellence in your daily life

Walking in excellence daily means doing what is right even when others are not looking. It means being a person of integrity behind closed doors. It means standing up for what is right even when no one else will. It means giving to others and not being recognized. It means taking care of yourself mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. It means being good to people, even when they are not good to you. It means turning the other cheek (and not slashing their tires, lol). It means forgiving yourself and giving yourself grace. It means to be good, virtuous, and classy!

No one said that walking in excellence is easy, but it is worth it. Walking in excellence can only help you. Doing right by others, even when it is hard, demonstrates good character. You may not get a round of applause while you are here on earth by people in your life, but one day when you are called home, you will hear, “well done.” 

The Gift of Giving!

Posted on by ndsaintlouis

I read a scripture and it says, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25). The scripture seems contradictory at first glance. You’re telling me that if I am generous, I will prosper?!? But it is true. You do reap what you sow. If you are a person who gives generously, even if you only have a little, it will come back to you…. I promise. The opposite applies if you are stingy with your generosity. So how can you be generous? 

Money

Those of us who grew up in church know about the concept of giving 10% in our tithes and offering, but this is not the only way to be generous when it comes to money. You can give to legitimate organizations or non-profits. You can give to the needy. You can give to family and friends who may need some additional support. Of course, you also have to apply wisdom when giving money to people. You can also donate items in your home to others (i.e. clothes, food, furniture, etc.). 

Time

Being generous with our time is important. We all make time for what is important. You can give to your loved ones by spending quality time with them. Let me reiterate the word quality. Spending time means being present in the moment. You can give your time to organizations by volunteering. There are so many organizations in your community that are constantly in need of volunteers. You can go do mission work. You can invest in a young life by mentoring. You can also give your time by helping a neighbor or a friend in need. 

Kindness

Being generous can also apply to our words and actions. You can be generous with kindness. You can encourage someone who may need something positive in that moment. You can be compassionate to a person who may feel they are undeserving. You can brighten someone’s day and give compliments. 

Sow good seeds! Find ways you can be a generous giver today.

If you are looking for an organization support, check out One Luv Outreach Ministries (https://www.oneluvoutreach.org/).

Run your own race!

Posted on by ndsaintlouis

When I was in college, you couldn’t tell me nothing! I had my entire life figured out. I was going to be a career woman, with a husband, house, and three kids. It’s so funny when I look back on my life and remember how silly I was. As I grew older, I grew impatient. I wondered why God would not bless me with the desires of my heart. Where was my husband! Where were my kids!

Then the years went by….25…..27….30. The biological clock just grew louder and louder. What made it worse was feeling like I was forgotten. I would say to God, “it’s not fair!” How come so and so is married and has kids! What about me! I would compare myself to my friends and coworkers and feel like I was less than because I didn’t have the things that I thought women were supposed to have at my age. 

Then I had a true encounter with God! He really came into my life and helped me to understand the plans that He has just for me! He put so much detail into my life! How dare I question His plans by comparing my life to others. I really understood how much He loved me and cared about every part of my life. He is Sovereign and Providential! No longer would I allow the lies of the enemy to make me think otherwise. 

Now I am 34 going on 35 and I am the happiest I have ever been. I am at peace and understand the purpose God has for me. I am running my OWN race! Not the race that society has deemed for me or the pressure others try to put on me, but the race that is designed just for me!

For all the people reading my blog, remember Jeremiah 29:11, “for I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you; plans to give you a hope and a future.” Do not allow the lies of the enemy to cause you to think God doesn’t love you, He doesn’t care about you, or He doesn’t have great things in store for you. Those could not be further from the truth!

Shake off whatever is weighing you down and run your own race! I promise, you will get to your finish line and WIN!

He’s Intentional

Posted on by ndsaintlouis

I love the song by Travis Greene called Intentional. He starts off singing:

I know that all things work together for my good, 

He’s intentional 

Never failing

Intentional means to be done with intention or on purpose. That gives me so much to be thankful for and celebrate!!! God has a purpose for EVERYTHING in our lives. He is intentional. He doesn’t make mistakes. 

Think about it. God was intentional on how he formed the universe. He placed everything in its own time and with intentionally. This goes for the sun, moon, stars, clouds, bodies of water, land……everything. I am in amazement of that. When you look outside, be reminded of God’s majesty and understand why He deserves all glory, honor and power. 

He is also intentional about your life.  He did not make a mistake with you being born or the family you were born into. “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you; before you were born, I set you apart” (Jeremiah 1:5). He has a purpose for your life. The enemy or others may tell you otherwise, but they are all lies. He has a plan for your good, a plan to proper you (Jeremiah 29:11). Every day be reminded that you are here on this earth because you were created for His purpose. He was intentional! Walk in confidence in this good news. 

He is intentional about the people in your life. Every friend or relationship from the past, present, and future all had/has a purpose. The spouse you met (or the one to come) was done with intention. The friends you have in your life are there for a reason. And we will lose many friends along the way, because God takes them on a different journey for a reason. Everyone is not meant to be a part of your journey. Sometimes allowing people to stay in our life that are not part of purpose can do more damage than good. If people walk away, let them. Remember, God knows all and He is does not make mistakes.  

Even the job you currently at is part of God’s plan for your life. You may be thinking that you can’t stand your job or it’s time for you to go, but trust God’s timing. He has you in that place for a reason and knows when take you to the next level. 

In this season, trust God! Know that He is connecting the dots and He is being intentional with everything that happens in your life. Through all the setbacks, hurt, and pain that I have experienced in the last 6 months, I can rejoice, because I know that ALL things are working together for my good (Romans 8:28). And you my friend should rejoice in the same.