By Ann Bates

As Thanksgiving draws near, it’s a time to reflect on gratitude and the blessings that make life—and work—meaningful. For me, the opportunity to work at the Butte County Office of Education is one of those blessings. My role here is more than a job; it’s a purpose and a privilege, and not a day goes by when I’m not reminded of why I’m here.

One thing I’m especially thankful for is the incredible team of people I work with every day. At BCOE, I’m surrounded by talented, compassionate, and hardworking colleagues who inspire me to show up as my best self. Together, we create meaningful experiences, like the Annual Employee Recognition Event and the Leadership Meeting, that celebrate the extraordinary dedication of our staff.

These events don’t just magically happen—they are the culmination of months of planning and effort. Every detail, from coordinating venues to ensuring the right message is delivered, comes together thanks to an amazing team. This Thanksgiving, I want to express my deepest gratitude to those who make these monumental efforts possible. You are the heart of what we do, and your dedication does not go unnoticed.

When I tell people I work directly with the superintendent, cabinet, and board, they often respond with, “Wow, that must be so exciting!” And while it is exciting, I also laugh because, let’s be honest, there’s a lot more behind-the-scenes chaos than glamour. (Think late-night emails, last-minute changes, and the occasional typo that somehow sneaks into an otherwise perfect presentation.) But even in the whirlwind, I wouldn’t trade it for anything because I know we’re making a difference.

One thing I’ve learned over the years is how easy it is to doubt yourself, even when others believe in you. Adam Grant’s words in Hidden Potential resonate deeply:

“Not long ago, it dawned upon me that impostor syndrome is a paradox:

• others believe in you
• you don’t believe in yourself
• yet you believe yourself instead of them.
  
  If you doubt yourself, shouldn’t you also doubt your low opinion of yourself?”

There are moments—especially when juggling multiple high-stakes projects—when I’ve questioned whether I’m up to the task. But then, I look around at the trust and encouragement from my team and leaders, and I realize it’s not about perfection. It’s about showing up, trying my best, and knowing I’m part of something bigger than myself.

BCOE’s motto, “Where Students Come First,” is the cornerstone of everything we do. It’s a personal reminder that every call I answer and every event I organize ultimately supports the students who depend on us. When parents call with concerns, I remind them, “Your students are the reason we’re here.” That belief drives me to give my all, even on the busiest of days.

As I reflect on my career, I look at the difference between where I’ve been and where I am now. In previous roles, it sometimes felt like leadership was focused on climbing ladders without considering the people holding those ladders steady. At BCOE, I’m part of a community where every person’s contributions have value, and that collective spirit is what makes this work so fulfilling.

This Thanksgiving, I’m profoundly grateful to be where I am, surrounded by people who inspire me and a mission that grounds me. Together, we’re building something extraordinary, and I’m honored to be a part of it.

Wishing you and yours a Happy Thanksgiving filled with gratitude, laughter, and joy.

Ann Bates is the Senior Executive Assistant to the Superintendent at the Butte County Office of Education.

Interested in writing your own BCOE Voices column? Email Communications Officer Travis Souders at tsouders@bcoe.org.