TL;DR: As a school leader, those you serve don’t just want your answers, they want your support. Show your support by being a part of the school, delegating to empower, and celebrating risks. “They” don’t really need you to tell them what to do. “They” don’t even really need your permission. Who is “they”? They are the people you are … Read More
Toxic Positivity at School
TL;DR: Toxic positivity does more harm than good. Having a purely positive mindset is a privilege, and does not reflect everyone’s realities. It is important to be realistic about the situations and emotions that are present. Telling students to see the glass as half full will not wash away their anxieties. Welcome to Teach Beyond! A few weeks ago, I … Read More
Labels Don’t Improve School Districts
TL;DR: Relationships and communication improve school districts. The conversation shouldn’t be what label to give schools; it should be how we can help and support these districts. We must differentiate the process for helping lower-performing schools. Before you continue reading, I want to caution you that my blog this month is not going to make you feel like you are … Read More
Positive Leadership Strategies
TL;DR: Qualities of positive leadership include enthusiasm, optimism, creating unity, leading with purpose, and pursuing excellence. Your attitude is your superpower in becoming a positive and effective leader. In today’s fast-paced and rapidly changing educational atmosphere, leaders and districts need to create positive work environments for their staff. Although this is challenging for every leader, it’s critical to navigate these … Read More
Reducing Power Struggles in the Classroom
TL;DR: Prevent power struggles by building relationships, providing choices, beginning with a purpose, checking in with students, and being willing to negotiate. If you find yourself entering a power struggle, take a step back, defer the conversation until a time when there isn’t an audience, and walk away. If a power struggle does occur, apologize first, then continue to strengthen … Read More