The rapid evolution of technology, biomedical research, environmental science, and so many other fields continually necessitates new jobs and careers—a job market that we haven't yet imagined. As we scramble to equip our students with new knowledge and skills, it becomes more important than ever to commit to our own lifelong learning and professional development.

My husband and I used to joke about an imaginary book series he would someday write. The cookbook would have three pages:

In January 2020, William Blair was promoted to the newly created position of Wellness Coordinator at the Mountain View Los Altos (MVLA) Union High School District in California, with high hopes and a deep sense of mission. For nearly a decade beforehand, Blair had served as a teacher, and had recently transitioned to district administrative work, eager to strengthen community within classrooms.  He felt proud of his forward-thinking district for creating this new position to address social-emotional learning and school climate. And then ....the pandemic obliterated everyone's carefully laid plans.