One of this week's reading assignments, "31 Days to Become a Better Leader", was a list of simple actions one can take to improve as an educational leader. Many of the suggestions resonated with me, especially the idea of keeping a journal and setting up one-on-ones. The idea of shadowing someone for a day and taking notes also sounded like it would be enlightening. But the piece of advice I found most valuable is the idea of finding a mentor. Throughout my career as a classroom teacher, I have been fortunate to have had a handful of mentors who have guided and inspired me. I see the work of an administrator, although overseeing many more people than a classroom teacher, as being somewhat more isolated in ways. The value of a good mentor would seem to be even more vital at that stage of one's career. I have recently had the good fortune of meeting new professional from different areas of education and being exposed to their new perspectives and approaches has motivated me. I believe the most effective leaders, educational or otherwise, have an ability to effectively lead through the current times and to see where the organization will be or should be headed. Mentors, individual who have navigated there own way through the ups and downs, are an indispensable resource.
Here is a link the reading that sparked this blog:
I agree. Wisdom is the best teacher. Most professions assign newcomers to a more experienced individual. Apprentices, rookies, and interns, typically receive the best guidance from a seasoned expert.
ReplyDeleteI agree, and I also believe that if the members of a department can support each other, it could possibly reduce teacher burnout. If you like going to work, you will be more comfortable, and in turn do your best.
ReplyDeleteGood point about good leaders being able to see where they want to head first. This is the most important decision. First decide where you want to go, then get people with you who will be able to get you there.
ReplyDelete