By Mary Kay Scharf
27 years ago, I walked into the first day in a new position, in a new school, and was greeted by two amazing office technical professionals whose mission was to make sure I was successful in this new role. Back then, we called these individuals secretaries. Since that time, I have heard many other titles such as office manager, administrative assistant, office associate, executive secretary, and occasionally, the “real” boss.
Over the years, I have given other titles to the spectacular office professionals with whom I have worked: Director of First Impressions. Protector of Time. The Welcome-Wagon. Calendar Keeper. Cheerleader. Psuedo-mom when the kids called and I was not available. Spelling expert. Grammar expert. Slip-is-showing police. Handiman. Consistency Sherriff. Conscience. Chocolate supplier. Historian. My right arm. And my left arm. And, of course, my personal Radar O’Reilly.
Regardless of the official titles, I have been fortunate to consider these people with whom I worked every day -office partners. Appreciating and respecting the role these individuals play in the smooth operation of an organization is key to success. Sadly, not all people who are fortunate enough to have support such as this understand its’ importance. Although this is the week we highlight our appreciation for the individuals who make our offices run like clock-work, the most effective teams respect and appreciate each other throughout the year.
Now I realize not everyone works daily with office professionals, but consider the many office professionals you encounter in the community. You know, the one who greets you at your medical appointments, recopies lost tax papers, takes a message at the lawyer’s office, and processes your insurance application. I truly loved the one who took my child the glasses forgotten at home for the third time in a week and who fixed my daughter’s hair when I was away taking care of an ill parent. There are also those who call to remind you of appointments and those who take your calls when you have to reschedule (again!)
The contribution of office professionals is so often taken for granted. Please let this week of celebration be a catalyst of change for how you show appreciation to the ones you encounter at work and in the community. Be patient. Be respectful. Be thoughtful. Learn their names.
Speaking of names – I would like to take this opportunity to thank the office team partners with whom I have had the privilege of working. Our schools were safer, more efficient, and more effective because of you. Thank you Bev, Carol, Sandy, Betty, Cheryl, Deb, Mary, Nancy, Martha, Linda, Kathy, and the many others who have provided support over the years.
Mary Kay Scharf is the Director of Principal Leadership in the Bloomington Public Schools. A Clinton native, she was a teacher for 7 years and has been a principal and school administrator for the past 26 years. She is a volunteer for multiple community organizations, most passionately for the Not In Our Town initiative. The proud mother of 3 and grandmother of one, Mary Kay lives in Normal with her husband, Jamie.
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