Interview

I really enjoyed my interview with Juan Garza of Kings Canyon Unified School District.  I was actually hired by Sanger Unified his first year as Superintendent in Reedley and didn't want to release me from my contract.  Interesting how life brings people back on your path.  He asked some really good questions that made me think.  Being a second year administrator, I felt like the kid on Slumdog Millionairre because I have had experience with them.  My favorite part is when I got to ask him questions about leadership, what he looks for in an administrator, and what kind of support he provides new administrators.  I was really impressed with the way he runs his district.  This was another great experience provided to us by our professors.  I've been through a few of these interviews and I suggest everyone apply for every administrative position to get the experience of the interviews.  My first admin interview was for a district level job and people thought I was crazy.  I didn't get the job but I went through a grueling interview that helped me for others.  Good luck to all!  Thank you to our professors.  I'll see you when I see you. 

PROFESSIONAL GROWTH PLAN/CAPSTONE PAPER

Wow, the last assignments.  Is it really almost over?  These assignments required me to dig deep into my soul to complete.  Where do I need to improve?  I believe I need to get better at working collaborately.  I have been known to not trust others to do the work and I realize that is not the way to lead.  It must begin with discussions to establish trust and it doesn't have to be completed that day.  I guess that has always been a problem for me.  When we decide to do something I want it done by the end of the day.  I have begun to understand that sometimes it is about the process and the foundation that is build during that process.  I plan to meet each week with my department heads and PLC leaders to have these discussions and determine how I can best support them. 
With regards to the capstone paper, it was encouraging to talk about the many programs and services we have at  Sanger High but it was also a little disheartening to see how we need to make these services better.  We have got to find a way to make interventions inviting to students that need it and not like a punishment.  We need to find a way to motivate students to understand the importance of seeking additional support after school.  Parental involvement is also an area where we can improve dramatically.  I don't understand the disconnect at the secondary level.   This is a conversation we will be having in our admin meetings.  I have some ideas. 
Overall, this has been a great experience.  Aside from all the reading, papers to write, late nights, confusion, and stress, it has been a phenomenal learning experience.  I truly felt more comfortable in my position each week.  Thank you to all of my peeps and to our awesome instructors.