My mind is already stuffed with all of the things that I want to make sure I accomplish this long-weekend, so time to get writing about the past while it is still here in my memory.
What have I learned in this, my first week as "acting for" Assistant Principal?
- All staff need to be taken care of. Sometimes it easy to see what different team members need to feel involved and supported and sometimes it is not so clear. The key is, however, to get into each of their classrooms while they are setting up and find out how they are doing. I was able to feel which staff are excited, which are a little bit scared, and which ones need some real support. I was able to offer that help and, hopefully show all of these team members that my first priority this week is supporting and listening to them. This is probably why I will have to come in on the weekend to accomplish some of my other tasks, but I am so glad I did it. I can't catch-up on staff relations over the weekend, but I can catch-up on all of the less important items on my to do list.
- Stay positive and responsive. This is really an extension of the first lesson I learned, but it bears repeating. It feels good to be a part of what all these wonderful teachers and teaching assistants are up to. I like that they will joke with me and keep me as part of their little groups.
- Schools will run themselves. This isn't true of course, but it is amazing how many things just happen because of the people behind the scenes that just make sure they are getting done. I don't know how, but I do know that when the students arrive everything is going to smoothly. I also know who is responsible.
This post seems a little empty for me, but I wrote it, and I will continue to take the time to reflect, no matter how much I want to get on moving out of here.
Until next week when the students arrive and the real work begins!!!
