Andrew Jordan Principal, a seasoned educator and school leader, published an open letter on July 28, 2026, urging individuals facing challenges in schools, workplaces, or communities to focus on one small step rather than waiting for perfect conditions. Drawing from his experience as a teacher, principal, and superintendent, Jordan argues that consistent, incremental improvements often lead to lasting change.
In the letter, Jordan recounts a project where he transformed an underused school library into a vibrant student space by simply moving existing furniture and painting walls, without new purchases. 'The goal wasn't to make it perfect. The goal was to make students want to walk through the door,' he wrote. That small project later supported grant funding by demonstrating the idea's viability.
Jordan emphasizes that the lesson extends beyond education. 'Whether you are trying to improve your workplace, your neighbourhood, your family routine, or your own habits, progress often begins with what is already in front of you,' he notes. He highlights that preparation, consistency, and showing up matter more than grand gestures: 'Small adjustments made consistently usually beat one big adjustment made too late.'
The letter cites research supporting this approach. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, nearly one in five U.S. public school students attends a rural school. The Learning Policy Institute reports that regular progress monitoring can improve student interventions by nearly 20 percent. RAND research found that schools using shorter review cycles improve outcomes faster than those relying on annual planning. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Education links strong family and community engagement to higher attendance, better academic performance, and improved school climate.
Jordan offers practical actions readers can take this week, including identifying one solvable problem, organizing a frequently used space, asking someone what would make their week easier, and celebrating small successes. 'You don't need perfect conditions. You need people who are willing to start,' he concludes.
Andrew Jordan Principal is Superintendent in Illinois and the 2022 Illinois Principals Association Principal of the Year. He has focused on improving student opportunities through practical leadership, community partnerships, innovative learning spaces, and grant-supported initiatives.
