We close up the classroooms, level up the classes, and type up the copious amounts of data we have for evaulatiions and state reports. But more importantly, it's a time for us to reflect on our leadership skills. For a new set of kiddos are around the corner.
I often argue that being a leader in Education is the most demanding of all fields. Having worked in public education, non-for-profit, and corporate, I am more convinced of this. The stakes are way higher than any other profession. What we build are the traits and behaviors that future leaders and community members carry with them for the rest of their lives.
As a school leader, consider the following:
1. Be in each and every moment - there is nothing more important than the conversation you are having with that child or adult. Listen more than you speak. We know you are the leader. You don't need to show us through words. Show us through actions. Find the root cause of an issue, and tackle it together.
2. Every class, every day - Make a point to visit every classroom even if it's just a walk by. It's the best proactive support you can offer. Set aside 30 minutes to visit and be seen. I wish I had down this more. Looking back, im afraid I missed many "right there" opportunities to build confidence, reinforce positive actions, and learn.
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3. Be a Teacher - model why you want. Spend time once a month teaching in a classroom. Maybe it's an interactive read aloud or teaching a guided math group in fourth grade. It could be a new recess game or a science experiment in chemistry.
They are looking to you for guidance, for approval, and for affirmation. Your actions make a difference. Whatever you do, lead like their lives depend on it. Why? Their lives may really do depend on it.
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