Closing 2025 and Opening 2026

December 29, 2025•4 min read

Closing One Year, Opening the Next

As 2025 comes to a close and we step into 2026, this moment invites both reflection and intention.

The end of a year is more than a change on the calendar—it’s a natural pause. A chance to look back at the moments that shaped us, the challenges that stretched us, and the people who walked alongside us through it all. In education and leadership, the pace rarely slows, yet these transitions remind us that growth often happens when we take time to notice it.

This past year asked a great deal of us. It required adaptability, perseverance, and a steady focus on what matters most—our students, our staff, and our community. There were wins worth celebrating and lessons worth carrying forward. Each one played a role in shaping who we are as leaders and who we are becoming.

As we turn the page to 2026, the question is not simply what we will do, but how we will do it. How will we show up for one another? How will we lead with clarity, compassion, and courage? How will we continue to build strong relationships, lead with integrity, and strengthen the partnerships that make our work possible?

A new year brings fresh opportunities—not because everything resets, but because we get to build intentionally on what we’ve already learned. The work ahead will still require effort and focus, but it will also offer moments of connection, growth, and shared purpose.

As we close 2025, may we do so with gratitude—for the people, the progress, and the lessons. As we open 2026, may we do so with intention—committed to being present, investing in others, and leading in ways that create lasting impact.

Thank you for all you have done and all you will continue to do. The work matters, and so do the people doing it.

Closing Thought

The RLR Team wishes you and your family a Happy New Year!

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Are you ready to develop or update your Strategic Plan for 2026-27?

Let RLR Leadership Consulting help you and your school/school district with your Strategic Planning and Goal Setting. We have the capacity to help one more district this year!

Our experts have helped dozens of schools, school districts, and businesses develop their Strategic Plans and Key Performance Indicators (KPI's) through our highly interactive and engaging process which includes all of your stakeholders.

One Washington Superintendent shared, "What sets RLR apart from others is that they bring a rare combination of strategic insight, emotional intelligence, and practical experience. As a superintendent, I seek consulting services that deliver tangible value to both the system and its students—and that was consistently delivered."

Who's In Your Inner Circle?
RLR Leadership Consulting and The CORE Project

Think about the people closest to you. The ones you share ideas with, lean on for support, and let influence your decisions. That group—your inner circle—shapes how you see yourself, the choices you make, and even the risks you’re willing to take.

Sometimes, those relationships give you energy and push you forward. Other times, they hold you back. That’s why RLR Leadership Consulting and The CORE Project have teamed up to create Your Inner Circle—an opportunity to pause, reflect, and intentionally shape the connections that matter most.

In this experience, you’ll:

Identify who truly belongs in your circle
Learn how to set healthy boundaries when needed
Build trust that actually lasts
Choose connections that make you stronger

Because the truth is, leadership isn’t just about strategy or skills—it’s about people. And the people closest to you can either empower your growth or limit your potential.

We’d love for you to join us. As a special opportunity, use code Randy15 for a discounted price—but hurry, this offer won’t last long.
https://thecorepro.com/coregroups/p/your-inner-circle-curriculum

Your circle matters. Choose it wisely.

If you would like me, or someone from our RLR Team, to speak or work with your school and/or school district, please contact us at www.randyrussell.org.