Taking the Path Less Traveled - Julie Williams-Muz

By Julie Williams-Muz, M. ED, CPA, CFO, MSBO President-Elect, Finance Director, Bay-Arenac ISD

Schools today face unprecedented challenges, especially when it comes to attracting and retaining employees. Across Michigan and beyond, we see school professionals balancing increasing demands and carrying heavy workloads in environments that can feel strained and uncertain. In times like these, it’s hard to tell a positive story about working in education — even for those of us who are committed to the cause. When each day brings new obstacles, finding the optimism to inspire others can feel daunting.

But that’s exactly why we need to remember our purpose. This purpose is what draws many of us to the field — a sense that our work matters on a deeper level. Though the daily challenges are many, our efforts directly influence the opportunities available to students and the strength of our schools. In times of uncertainty, it can be easy to lose sight of this purpose under the weight of challenges and increased workload. But, by keeping our focus on the “why” of our work, we are reminded of the vital role we play in ensuring the success of our educational system.

As we navigate our roles in educational finance and operations, I often picture our journey as a rugged, unpaved road winding through unknown territory. It’s not the smooth, paved path that some might envision, but rather one filled with bumps, unexpected forks, and a fair share of obstacles. Some days, the road feels so uncertain that we may be tempted to turn around, or at the very least, slow down and question the route we’ve chosen. Other times, we feel compelled to press the gas, moving forward with urgency in response to the demands of our schools and communities.

This road we travel as MSBO members is unique. It’s a path few fully understand, marked by both personal and professional challenges. We’re fortunate, however, not to travel this path alone. As MSBO members, we are better together. Our journey is unique, but it’s also shared by a network of dedicated colleagues who understand the joys and challenges of our field. When the road gets tough, knowing we can lean on each other is invaluable. In moments of doubt, it’s often the camaraderie, support, and encouragement of our peers that helps us find the strength to press on.

There will be moments along this road where the burden feels heavy. We may find ourselves pausing to catch our breath or to shed a tear in those harder times. But just as often, we’ll find moments to celebrate — to laugh, to appreciate the camaraderie of our peers, and to reflect on the difference our work makes. These moments are essential. They remind us that, even though the journey is tough, it’s filled with beauty and meaning.

As we travel this path, we’ll inevitably encounter forks in the road that demand difficult decisions. But with our peers by our side, these choices become less daunting. We benefit from each other’s perspectives, drawing on collective wisdom to guide us forward. By standing shoulder to shoulder, we strengthen not only ourselves but the broader impact of our work.

At the end of this unpaved road, we may find something remarkable — a sense of accomplishment, perhaps even a “waterfall” of rewards: the satisfaction of making a difference, the appreciation from those we’ve served, and the collective progress we’ve made in supporting Michigan’s students. But, as we journey down this path less traveled, let’s remember to enjoy the ride — to cherish every small win, to celebrate together, and to find strength in one another as we face the unknown.

So, here’s to embracing the path less traveled, supporting one another along the way, and celebrating the wins, large and small. By facing the unknown as a united team, we’re reminded that it’s not just the destination, but the journey, that makes our work worthwhile.

Taking the Path Less Traveled – Julie Williams-Muz

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