TL;DR: Know your why, your purpose, and passion as it shapes your mindset and what you do every day. Brandi shares her personal story that started with tragedy that led to leading with HOPE, turning tragedy into triumph. The Leader in Me program helps every student see they have greatness and leadership potential. What is Your Why? We have to … Read More
Beat Overwhelm with a Goal Setting System That Works
TL;DR: The 4 Disciplines of Execution (4DX) is a goal-setting framework based on four critical components of execution: focus, leverage, engagement, and accountability. Focus and decide on only one or two goals that are most important to your success. Measure your success using a lead measure (predictive, proactive, and push you closer to your goal) rather than a lag measure … Read More
Still Learning…Even Though I’m the Principal
TL;DR: Even when you hold a leadership position, you still learn new things every day. Make sure your reasons for asking staff to produce something are clear and be sure to communicate the “why.” Even though I’m the principal, and have been doing this for a long time, doesn’t mean I don’t occasionally learn a lesson! I have a very … Read More
Engage Students with Magic Glasses & Table Dancing
TL;DR: Reimagine your lessons to make them more engaging for students. Some ways to engage students with your lessons include magic glasses and table dancing. Other ways to increase engagement in your lessons include finding ways to infuse movement, friendly competition, student conversations, and sometimes a little whimsy. Bueller? Bueller? Bueller…anyone? Anyone? Are you teaching to an ‘empty’ room? If … Read More
Envisioning a “New Normal”
TL;DR: Blended learning promotes student ownership and helps to address the needs of different styles of learners. A successful example of blended learning at Sangamon Valley Middle School offers the best of both worlds. The shortcomings vs. benefits of blended learning are explored. Envisioning a New Normal: Imagine the Possibilities The pandemic has created a great deal of angst for … Read More