-Tschannen-Moran, Trust Matters
It is important to me to build and cultivate relationships. Both students and staff work together as a team and without strong relationships leaders may become aloof, loosing connections with their school environment. It is important to me to form strong bonds, both professionally and personally with my staff and my students.
In education, we are in the growth industry. We must continue this growth, not only in academics, but through our pedagogy and personal experiences. Having the “Growth Mindset” is a great start, but our institutions need to also promote growth throughout the institution. Having professional development that are meaningful, allowing faculty and students to take academic risks, and a supportive evaluation system are just a few ways I promote growth in my school.
Through all the data, standardized tests, and admissions work, our schools are filled with people. We must recognize the human factor and honor the idiosyncrasies. As a leader, we must often assume many roles: friend, parent, coach, student. It is important that regardless of title, we keep our sense of humility and service the needs of everyone within our community.