[i]As of January 1st, I will be taking an Educational leave from Gordon for six-month, to finish my narrative research and an MA thesis. A new VP has yet to be named for my replacement. Here is a sample narrative of some of the ideas I am trying to convey about the inner world of children, my viewpoint as an administrator and the decisions that I make.[/i]

The other day I asked one of my young friends, R. to sit and talk with me in my office. (I consider carefully how to tell him about my plans.)
Do you know… I won’t always be here at this school? I might have to go away sometime.... maybe even in December. (how will he understand the concept of taking time away from my job?)
Yeah,.. of course. I’m going to Seattle in December.
Hmm… who do you know there?
My Uncle Joe
That’s nice. Do you see him much?
No, not really, only at Christmas time.
You see me most days, don’t you?
Yup,.. cuz yur always here and you let us play in the gym sometimes.
Well because you’re one of my little friends I thought I would tell you a something important. Can you keep it safe for awhile?
Yeah; I can… but I might tell S. if I sit too close.
Well later you can tell others. You are the first little person to know, but I’ve told the grade sevens already.
Know what?
That ... I’m going to be leaving in December. I’m leaving at Christmas time and won’t be the VP here anymore (pausing, I consider how he will respond. J. is quiet and clearly thinking).
Where are you going?
I am going back to school.
(a short pause this time) But you’re the Vice-principal! why do you have to go back to school?
Well I am actually going back to the University and I was wondering if it would be ok to come and visit you? … (I quickly add) That’s what friends do.
(he quietly answers) For sure… can we do stuff too?
Of course. Maybe I can come into your class to help out. (I pause and consider what to say to him) After Christmas I will be at the University to finish a research book called a thesis. Have you heard that word before?
No. (we hear the bell ring) is it big?
It’s a book with a least a 100 pages that I have to write stories about the school and my job as a Vice-principal.
Oh, cool.
But I want to come here (to Gordon) and visit at least once a week and see everyone.
(we stand up together) so let’s go back to your class now. (walking up the stairs) It’s ok to tell your teacher you were talking about Mr. Inglis’ special news. The teachers already know, (and now you who read this do too.)