I have often said that school administrators have one of the toughest jobs. They have to balance the mandates and expectations of the district with serving those they lead. Because of this balance, some leaders may not feel like they have time for small talk. They may feel like this is not the best use […]
The Power of Small Talk: Fostering Relationships and Team Culture Read More »
Trust capital is all about the deep relationships formed with the staff, where they genuinely feel cared for as both individuals and professionals. It’s not just about leadership but also about a shared sense of camaraderie and mutual respect. It’s about fostering an atmosphere where every member of the team, from teachers to support staff,
Building Trust Capital Read More »
In a world where academic achievement often takes precedence, I hold a firm belief that education is fundamentally relationship-centered. This belief forms the heart of the ‘Relationships before rigor’ quote, I wrote at the start of the pandemic, which underscores the paramount importance of nurturing robust connections with students before delving into the complexities of
Building Strong Foundations: Why Prioritizing Relationships in Education Matters Read More »
This article is based on my soon to be released book, Becoming a More Assertive Teacher: Maximizing Strengths, Establishing Boundaries, and Amplifying Your Voice Effective communication is not only about sharing information but also about fostering a healthy learning environment. However, it’s important to note that teachers and administrators often find themselves challenged by assertive
How To Assertively Communicate Your Ideas and Concerns Read More »
This is an excerpt from my upcoming book Building Dynamic Teamwork in Schools: 12 Principles of the V Formation to Transform Culture which will be released this fall! In the natural world, the migratory journey of geese offers a captivating insight into the remarkable teamwork traits that have evolved within them over millennia. These traits,
Harnessing the Power of Teamwork: Lessons from Geese Read More »
“Sticktoitiveness” is an informal and somewhat humorous sounding term that describes the quality of perseverance, tenacity, or determination in pursuing a task or goal despite challenges, obstacles, or setbacks. I remember a time when this trait wasn’t just a concept; it was a way of life in my family. We called it sticktoitiveness, and it
“Sticktoitiveness” Read More »
Teachers play a crucial role in shaping the minds of their students and ensuring a positive learning environment. However, motivating and supporting teachers is equally important to ensure their passion and dedication remain intact. As a principal, it is essential to understand the factors that influence teacher motivation and implement effective strategies to keep them
Empowering Educators: Strategies for Principals to Motivate and Support Teachers Read More »
Teaching is undeniably one of the toughest jobs there is, but it is also one of the most important and rewarding. As educators, maintaining a positive mindset is not just a personal choice; it is an essential aspect of our professional journey. It not only sets the tone for our own well-being but also has
Positive Mindset: Where Success Begins Read More »
In today’s world, I’m all about recognizing how important recess and unstructured play are for kids. Research consistently shows that they’re not just breaks from learning; they’re actually a crucial part of learning itself. Kids use play to explore and understand the world around them – it’s built into how they work. With all the
Unstructured Play and Recess in School is Essential for Children’s Learning Read More »
This article is based on chapter in my upcoming book, Becoming a More Assertive Teacher: Maximizing Strengths, Establishing Boundaries, and Amplifying Your Voice In the realm of education, it’s common to attribute challenging student behavior to underlying trauma or a means of expressing emotions. While this perspective holds merit, there’s another dimension that’s worth considering: the
Nurturing Low Agreeableness Students: Strategies for Effective Support Read More »