Growing Into Leadership by Alvy and RobbinsOk, so I'm not really a ballerina and I'm definitely not a Jolie (besides, I had the name first, I'm older than she is!).
I chose to do the reading by Alvy and Robbins entitled "Growing Into Leadership". This article recognizes that "one of the difficulties that new principals face is that they must lead while they are learning to lead" (p.50) How true! Alvy and Robbins identify some "essential themes to guide new principals in growing into their leadership role" (pg. 50).
These themes include:
Keep Students at the Heart
Be a Learning Leader
Act Ethically
Put Instructional Leadership First
Practice Efficient Management
Build Strong Relationships
Know What to Expect
Orchestrate School-Community Partnerships
Be Lifelong Learners
This idea of "growing into a role" reminds me of the picture Tania posted where Princess Kamijah is wearing large shoes, ones she will grow into one day. Whether we are a teacher-leader or a new principal, we all have to "grow into" our leadership role.
One quote that jumped out at me was under the heading "Build Strong Relationships". It states "Principals do not gain trust because of the title on their office door. They must earn trust. And to earn trust, they must give it -- that is, they must demonstrate faith in the independent skills and decisions of others."(pg. 52) I have worked with principals who have practised this and the result is a feeling of community and empowerment. I have also worked or subbed in schools where this is not the case. It is not pleasant going to work to feel like an outsider, and that is how one can feel if this trust and open relationship does not exist between principal and teachers, or between colleagues. I feel that establishing strong relationships is an important component of being a successful leader.
So, my question to you is:
Which one of the themes (in colour above) do you believe is the most important in the role of principal? Why?
posted by Angelina @ 9:49 PM
3 comments
3 Comments:
I would have to say my top two are 'Keep Students at the Heart' and 'Build Strong Relationships'. I couldn't pick just one:)
Being in administration is all about people; the important parts of the job anyways. First, the kids, second, the other adults in the school community (staff, parents, volunteers, community members). Good people skills can get you through tough times learning the ropes as a new principal.
I would have to say the most important one is "Build Strong Relationships" and "Be a Lifelong learner." You can't really be an effective principal if you are not respected (and adored); and if you are those two things, then you can accomplish most anything else. If you continue to grow and stretch professionally then you will be doing those other things!
Thanks for the nod to buddy Steve and me.
Thank you both for your input. Many people in my Instructional Leadership class agreed with you, as you can see on our UNBC 656 Instructional Leadership blog. It seems that strong relationships are fundamental in ensuring all of the other themes occur.
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