I must model lifelong learning for students, educators, our community. I have found that you can teach an old dog some new tricks!

Kindness Does Not Equal Weakness

The title is the point of this message. As a new administrator I recall incidents where kindness was misinterpreted. For example, if I listened politely to many ideas, there was a misinterpretation that others were making the decision. Finally I had to state my purpose - listen to everyone's ideas, but the final decision would be mine. Over time we all figured out where we stood and moved forward successfully.

Confront with a Smile

You don't have to be mean to get your point across. You just have to mean what you say - and others have to know you mean it when you say it.

If you want it, teach it. If you want it, monitor it.

Generic

Teachers don't like to be scolded en masse. If someone is tardy everyday, and everybody knows that person is tardy everyday, the group will be really irritated to sit through another staff meeting where you tell everyone they have to be on time. Go to the source of the problem and address it where it needs to be addressed. And then follow up on your expectations.

Dealing with Issues

Are you willing to confront problems? Deal with issues? How do you handle problems and issues? Do those around you know what to expect? Do you follow through on your expectations? Do you address problems generically or go to the source? Do you learn from your mistakes?

Today

If you are a school administrator and you want to do a GREAT job, you are seeking new information even as school lets out for the summer. Check your data, make a plan.

Always do more than you expect everyone else in your building to do.

Will you know if you aren't great ....or even good? Can you change? Do you want to change the course of your leadership?

What makes a good administrator? What makes a great administrator?

Thought for the day: School administration is not for the faint of heart.