“Surge, to me, is a radical act of love. It is a space where I can rest from the weight of proving, performing, and justifying—and instead root myself unapologetically in who I am. As a Black woman principal, I know my calling is to restore joy, cultivate belonging, and ensure equity is lived, not just spoken. Surge is the fertile ground to nurture that vision alongside others equally committed to rewriting narratives and restoring justice in our schools and communities. It offers the space to sharpen my leadership, deepen my impact, and stand boldly in the truth of who I am. To me, Surge is both a sanctuary and a call to action: to love radically, disrupt inequity, and thrive while building spaces where others can do the same.”
Amber Henderson | Principal, ESD159 Matteson