~Individual Reflections Log #2~As a non-administrator, I often find myself assessing and analyzing those in leadership positions. I really feel that I have worked to give them 'the benefit of the doubt' because there was no way I could know ALL they have to deal with. I hear many teachers say, "I'd never want to be an administrator". The reasons usually have to do with the long hours, parent issues and the multitude of personalities that must be managed.
Through readings and group discussions, it would be impossible not to look to current administrators with which I have dealings. I now look at them with new eyes. I find myself considering the different styles and methods with which I've seen them interact with staff, parents and students.
The concept of an effective leader has begun to take shape in my mind. The effective leader is a person that is able to motivate staff to work together to achieve a goal. There are many theories of leadership, with a great many focusing on leadership in business. An educational leader can incorporate many of the components of business leadership, however, there are unique components that must be focused on in a school setting. The backbone of leadership, in my opinion, is for the leader to put forth his/her principles and get the staff behind these principles toward the vision.
When drawing these conclusions about principal to staff relationships, I continue to see parallels to teacher to student relationships. The above writing, in my opinion, is a perfect description of a classroom community.
Image from: http://www.flickr.com/photos/aunto/2909023432/sizes/l/
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