Kristilynn Turney, Ed.D.Keynote Speaker, Salem Speakers Bureau · TEDx Ensley Ave ED 2026 I Dynamic Speaker & Presenter I Author I Transforming Schools Through Strategic Planning, Leadership Development, and School Improvement I Results-Driven Educational Leader | E

Students Struggling? Here's What Leaders Miss

21 Dec 2025 · 1 min

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1:07

In this brief presentation, Kristilynn Turney, Ed.D., addresses school leaders and principals, reminding them that while the holiday season is often celebrated, many staff and students may be dealing with trauma, mental health challenges, or physical illness. She offers three concrete, low‑effort strategies to support these individuals during break periods: (1) connect them to local community resources that can provide professional help; (2) send warm, personalized letters to let them know they are cared for; and (3) make brief, five‑minute phone calls to offer a human voice and personal connection. Turney emphasizes that leadership responsibilities continue through breaks, but even small gestures can brighten someone's day and foster a supportive school culture.

Chapters

It's my favorite time of year, but remember, it's not everyone's favorite time of year. Maybe your staff or students are struggling with trauma or mental or physical illnesses. So how can you support them during this time? Of course, you can connect them to local resources. You can also send nice warm letters during the break so that they receive them, and that might be a great pick-me-up for that day. Also, if you have time, you can make phone calls just to connect and to allow them to hear your voice. I get it, it's our break time too, but the job of a school leader and principal never ends. No. So if you can pick up the phone for 5 minutes and make someone's day brighter, then do that. If you can't, the letters and connecting them to positive local community resources will also be beneficial.