Jimmy Casas is an experienced, passionate, honest educator focused on making a difference in the culture of classrooms and schools. After spending over 25 years as an administrator, he is now focused on coaching others. The culture of a school starts with every individual working towards a similar set of values and goals. The way he addresses individuals showcases why … Read More
How Mindfulness Can Make You A Better School Administrator
TL;DR: Being an administrator is hard. Mindfulness takes time but provides significant benefits. A school leader’s day may begin with a 5:30 am alarm. Bus duty and car rider duty are usually in full swing by 7:30 am, earlier in some schools. Before the first bell rings, a principal may have an email from the central office, a phone call … Read More
Valuing Your Staff
TL;DR: Teachers need to feel valued and appreciated to thrive. Administrators should find ways to connect with their staff and make them feel valued. Teachers need to the opportunity to be heard and understood. This year when many educators are evaluating whether or not they want to stay in education, the bottom line is that leaders need to place more … Read More
Creative Struggles: The Expert in the Room
TL;DR: When someone has a creative struggle, think outside of the box for ways to support them. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Leaders don’t have to have all the answers, but they should be able to find someone who does. Leo is constantly drawing, doodling, sketching. He creates these pictures of characters with elaborate backstories. He spends hours … Read More
Leading With Questions: A Playbook For School Leaders
TL;DR: Leading school during this pandemic is not something we were trained for. Making decisions and finding direction can be difficult. Ask better questions and listen to the questions of others to help find solutions. Include others’ voices in seeking answers. Leading schools during the pandemic has been challenging and at times school leaders may have uttered the words, “There … Read More