TL;DR: While building school culture is important, principals also need to be instructional leaders who analyze data and have a clear vision, goals for learning, and a commitment to these goals. There are 7 questions to ask that will guide your practice as an instructional leader. “A school without clearly defined goals can be likened to a ship without a … Read More
Pandemic Leadership: Leading Through the Eyes of Teachers
TL:DR: Pandemic leadership is a new experience for all leaders; you likely won’t find tips in your bag of experiences. Necessary pandemic leadership qualities include supporting teachers, being transparent and open with teachers, and understanding that self-care is not a sign of weakness. In your best Sophia Petrillo imitation: “Picture it; March 2020…Everywhere… Along came COVID.” (Feel free to sing … 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
Education’s Elephant in the Room
TL;DR: Silencing education’s elephant in the room by bringing attention to the responsibility of male leaders. The responsibilities of male leaders in a female dominated profession include initiating necessary conversations, being upfront, asking questions, listening, and summarizing points made in conversation to validate the other person. I grew up the youngest of four and the only girl. My mother tried … Read More