Competence is definitely a trait you must possess as an administrator. The people that you supervise will eat you up if they believe that you do not have the skills for the job and you will crumble if you do not have the confidence in yourself. The job as an administrator is mind-boggling at times. Just like your first day as a teacher, you will report to work that first day without a clue as to what you are supposed to do. Everything that comes your way those first few months are issues that you really don't know how to handle. Missing cell phones, behavior on the bus, needs for supplies, parent complaints about teachers, teacher complaints about students, people calling in sick, SARBS, discipline, observations, evaluations, etc. will definitely be issues that you must handle. The thing is to remain calm, ask for clarification from the others, and make the best decision you can. Just make sure you own that decision and support it once you make it. If you made a mistake, well own that too, learn from it, and move on with your day. The great part of the job is the impact you can have on teachers and students. You get to visit classrooms every day and have positive conversations with most of your staff. Every school will have the two-percenters that will attempt to ruin your day. Don't let them.
I enjoyed reading this chapter as it outlined my year as an administrator. The best thing you can do is say, "I will get back you on that." However, when you say those words, you must be sure to prioritize that commitment.
If you can get through the first semester of school, you will see that it gets much better than that. You have learned how to do many of your duties but still require the conversations with your colleagues. That will change however the next year when your duties change and you have to learn them as well.
I guess the things that helped me the most was that I was an effective teacher and I can speak to people. I have to continue to improve my communication skills though, if that makes any sense at all. Be kind, be humble, and always reflect at the end of the day.
Pete-
ReplyDeleteThanks for such a great post! It's always nice to hear from someone who is already in the administrative role. I can only say that I think I would do this or that, but it's nice to read your posts because you are there living it and it helps. I'm sure it's been tough to figure it out as there is no handbook and nothing really prepares for you for the next step except getting the experience, so that is something we just need to remember as we move up the ladder. Make the choice and own it. Thanks again, Pete!
Pete-
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading your post on dealing with things during your day that maybe you are unsure how to handle. Thank you for reminding us to do our research, get help and direction, and to own your decision. Thanks Pete!
Pete - As always, you bring up some great points! I like your ending statement of "Be kind, be humble, and always reflect at the end of the day". I think we would all grow tremendously each day if we all took a moment to reflect on our day; the choices we made, the actions we took, and the conversations we had. Thanks Pete
ReplyDeleteI agree that when an administrator says he/she will "get back to you," it is important that they follow their word. The simple act of not getting back speaks volumes about the administrator's priorities and how they view the importance of that person and his/her concern. I always enjoy reading your point of view of a working administrator.
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