Welcome to #mnlead, a weekly gathering of progressive educators interested in making a difference for kids! Please introduce yourself and you Thanksgiving travel plans! #280charactersisalright
I’m Matt from Northfield, MN. I have the pleasure of moderating with @bretdom tonight. I’ll be traveling over the river and through the woods to Eden Prairie on Thursday…just after the Vikings beat the Lions! #mnlead
Hi Everyone! I'm Bret, elementary principal in Lakeville, MN. Plan on watching the #vikings beat the Lions then eat a nice meal with the family right here in MN. #mnlead
Anna, nature preschool teacher in Prior Lake. Excited to spend thanksgiving with my whole family. My niece even arrived two weeks early to participate! :) #mnlead
Jen, elem principal from MN...we are hosting so my travel plans are limited to the grocery store & Friday shopping. Can’t wait to have a house full of love & chaos! #mnlead
My goodness, we have another full house for #mnlead this evening, @bretdom. Tonight we plan to focus on receiving communication. Q1 coming up really soon!
Gary from Illinois, former supt and now trainer and author for character ed. Home for Thanksgiving before heading to work in Bolivia. However, just home from a disappointing Bears loss to the Lions #mnlead
Jim Smith, Forest Lake - Assessment. Dinner with the family then off to Detroit after the holidays to work with social studies teachers. Might not mention I live in Vikingland #mnlead
Jim Smith, Forest Lake - Assessment. Dinner with the family then off to Detroit after the holidays to work with social studies teachers. Might not mention I live in Vikingland #mnlead
A1) Being an auditory learner, listening comes easier than talking for me. I try to use good eye contact, rephrase what they what the speaker said and ask questions for clarification. #mnlead
A1. Try to find time when away from other distractions. I try to avoid having conversations with support staff, parents, etc in front of Ss/when I am teaching #mnlead
A1: When I can, I anticipate the different avenues the situation may be coming from. This helps me focus in on the finer details. When it is on the fly, I often commit to coming back for deeper support. #mnlead
A1 First, remind myself to breathe and listen. More often than not ppl just want you to be quiet and listen. I don't need to solve every problem. My job is to help others find their solutions. Those who do the work do the learning. #mnlead
A1. #mnlead I took a lot of notes. We have a lot of conversations on a regular day and it is easier to forget conversations. I reflected on the day at the end of the day.
A1) Being an auditory learner, listening comes easier than talking for me. I try to use good eye contact, rephrase what they what the speaker said and ask questions for clarification. #mnlead
A1.2. Cognitive Coaching training has also supported my belief that my curiosity needs to be set aside... a listener helps the speaker better understand his or her thinking. #mnlead
A1 First, remind myself to breathe and listen. More often than not ppl just want you to be quiet and listen. I don't need to solve every problem. My job is to help others find their solutions. Those who do the work do the learning. #mnlead
Great practical strategy, Jennifer. I literally (and gently) bite my tongue sometimes as well to serve as a reminder to use my ears instead of my mouth! #mnlead
The template is me sharing where I think we need to go as a staff and then listening for concerns about how "ready" we are for the next step. Growth is a process and time is sacred. #mnlead
I really think is important to think about our body language while listening. It really makes a significant difference…more than any of us realize. #mnlead
A1 First, remind myself to breathe and listen. More often than not ppl just want you to be quiet and listen. I don't need to solve every problem. My job is to help others find their solutions. Those who do the work do the learning. #mnlead
I really think is important to think about our body language while listening. It really makes a significant difference…more than any of us realize. #mnlead
Too often we listen to give an answer. I don't like it when I hear a parent speak for a child when I know the kid is thinking something. The same applies to me. Stop talking for others. Listen, paraphase, listen more. #mnlead
I also try and meet in their room not my office. I want my T's to be comfortable and for some the idea of me behind a desk might be intimidating. Don't always get honest talk then. #mnlead
Taking notes is important! It holds everyone accountable when conversations take place face to face. And when problems continue to occur, can look back and see if previous solution identified was actually tried or if it didn't work & a new one is needed. #MNLead
That's why I put away my phone or shut my computer. If my phone sits on the table, it tells the person they are not as important as what's coming from the phone. #mnlead Body language and devices pull us away.
Q2. We all have a responsibility to engage in listening to communication within our workplace. What strategies do you use to be a good receiver of workplace communication? #mnlead
Often… and maybe too often with Ts, we want to show how “smart” and “empathetic” we are… So, we’re looking for opportunities to “win” the discussion by proving those things. #mnlead
So good to hear this. I always wanted to meet on the teachers turf and was always criticized for it, but it was a culture based on intimidation, and I had to leave, #mnlead
I also try and meet in their room not my office. I want my T's to be comfortable and for some the idea of me behind a desk might be intimidating. Don't always get honest talk then. #mnlead
A1) I spend time just about every day in classrooms. Being visible and watching T's work allows for Q's which creates conversation. Conversation=communication #mnlead
Q2. We all have a responsibility to engage in listening to communication within our workplace. What strategies do you use to be a good receiver of workplace communication? #mnlead
A2: My door is always open and I actively listen to ALL office conversations to be proactive. I also keep my ear to the students entering the building so I know what's up before I hear about what's up...
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Q2. We all have a responsibility to engage in listening to communication within our workplace. What strategies do you use to be a good receiver of workplace communication? #mnlead
Q2. We all have a responsibility to engage in listening to communication within our workplace. What strategies do you use to be a good receiver of workplace communication? #mnlead
A2 When I'm receiving feedback I have to remind myself that this person is trying to help me...even when I feel defensive. There are times I've written down my reflections(good &bad) to process what I hear...then I delete it when needed. #mnlead
Love this. It can be hard not to get defensive when criticism comes along but accepting that perfection is unattainable helps us be open minded. #mnlead
A2 It is hard to receive communication if you are in your office. I get out and walk the hallways & visit classrooms. Simply asking "How are you doing?" allows for authentic communication. #mnlead
A2: Use multiple ways for people to provide perspective. Put your shoes to the beat, provide diverse opportunities for teacher leadership and representation, and ask lots of open ended questions. Be transparent. #mnlead
A2)We get numerous emails, snail mail, conversations on the fly, Phone calls, High 5’s, Fist Bumps, Jokes etc… throughout the day. And then there’s the Important conversations… I think the key is to be Open, Available and Accepting. #mnlead
Love this. It can be hard not to get defensive when criticism comes along but accepting that perfection is unattainable helps us be open minded. #mnlead
A2. I try to meet with Ts at least once every two weeks to provide feedback, discuss how they are growing and to provide a platform for them to share how I can support them. #mnlead
A2 I make sure to set aside some time to engage in reading messages from the District or state-level leaders …example, I make sure to read @BCassellius’s weekly memo to MN superintendents to stay informed. #mnlead
A2. Set aside time to actually read emails/newsletters and respond in a timely matter. Make action steps for myself from meetings - and hold myself accountable for following through. #MNLead
A2. Set aside time to actually read emails/newsletters and respond in a timely matter. Make action steps for myself from meetings - and hold myself accountable for following through. #MNLead
A2 - So important! When administrators have been in my classroom, I am able to have much different conversations with them versus when it's based on assumptions... #MNLead
A2- Be transparent. Model when you want someone to listen to you and tell them what you are looking for...sounding board, seeking help, etc. Return the favor & be deliberate about what they want. #mnlead
Q2. We all have a responsibility to engage in listening to communication within our workplace. What strategies do you use to be a good receiver of workplace communication? #mnlead
A2. Set aside time to actually read emails/newsletters and respond in a timely matter. Make action steps for myself from meetings - and hold myself accountable for following through. #MNLead
A2.1We talk about “Our Door is Always Open”, but if true, we must model that and follow through on it. Our body language, tone, volume are so key. #mnlead
A2) I try to make sure I read and respond all communications that are written. If I need to visit with someone I usually try to make sure I am clear and conscience so I don't waste their time. #mnlead
A2. I try to meet with Ts at least once every two weeks to provide feedback, discuss how they are growing and to provide a platform for them to share how I can support them. #mnlead
A2. Go into a conversation believing that the person has something they can teach you. Everyone has something you can learn from them. With humility, you can gain wisdom. It also takes wisdom to be humble enough to listen. #mnlead
A2. Set aside time to actually read emails/newsletters and respond in a timely matter. Make action steps for myself from meetings - and hold myself accountable for following through. #MNLead
A2. Go into a conversation believing that the person has something they can teach you. Everyone has something you can learn from them. With humility, you can gain wisdom. It also takes wisdom to be humble enough to listen. #mnlead
It's a sad addiction. I find myself turning off my notifications. I check my email less frequently and stay connected to ppl more often. F2F is my preferred way of communicating. #mnlead
A2) Keep things mentioned in confidence to yourself. I work to be non-judge mental and make sure that I reassure staff that we are in it together. #mnlead
A2) It’s also important to be out and about before & after school! Those informal conversations are some of my most important connections of the day! #mnlead
A2 - So important! When administrators have been in my classroom, I am able to have much different conversations with them versus when it's based on assumptions... #MNLead
A2. Go into a conversation believing that the person has something they can teach you. Everyone has something you can learn from them. With humility, you can gain wisdom. It also takes wisdom to be humble enough to listen. #mnlead
I love this! We have this rule for responding to families, but not necessarily within the workplace. For my own sanity of wearing many hats (and having too many emails), I try to respond right away when I open the email. #mnlead
I love this! I’ve said in committee’s and with kids “This isn’t about/for me it’s about...” and/or “I’m egoless in this.” It’s about whats best for _________ Fill in the blank. #mnlead
I always say to the kids, staff, my family, "There's your side, there's his side and somewhere in there is the truth." Having perspective and being honest about seeking to understand helps. #mnlead
When I work with groups I am usually seen as the presenter with the answers. I see myself as the facilitator to help others find answers. We usually have to work through this a bit. #mnlead
A2) Keep things mentioned in confidence to yourself. I work to be non-judge mental and make sure that I reassure staff that we are in it together. #mnlead
A2. #mnlead My rule is not more than 24 hrs to answer emails. If an action is necessary that is going to take more time. I let the person know that I am working on it.
I think that goes back to doing the best you can know each individual’s needs. Like all professional tools, every one doesn’t work for every situation. #mnlead
Good point! I am often around before my official start time & after, when the before/after school care is happening. I make sure to stop in and connect with TAs - many times this is when they open up about challenges/something they need help with, etc #mnlead
I think it’s related to A)all of the above… I know that’s an easy way out… I might add, it could be how we view “leaders”. This idea that “leaders” should be speaking, problem solving if their leading. #mnlead
Agree! Sometimes we avoid the questions because we know it will be a hard conversation. Never plays well when we do that. Best to ask & work thru it. #mnlead
Agree. We need to watch the cues of the speaker. However, paraphrasing is often critical. What is heard isn't always what was said. Paraphrasing can help correct for that. #mnlead
I think that goes back to doing the best you can know each individual’s needs. Like all professional tools, every one doesn’t work for every situation. #mnlead
Agreed. Wait time is important. We can sometimes want to “help” by filling the silence when the other person is just needing the time. Give them that gift! #mnlead
I love this. Although I've been countered with "Everyone wants what's best for the kids..." - when there's disagreement - it can be hard to challenge/get to the core of what truly is, especially when it's 4 & 5yr olds who can't always add their voice... #MNLead
A3) When I get criticism through email, I never reply by email. I make a phone call and talk directly to my critic. Much easier to ask Q's using the phone. #mnlead
A3) I try to listen and not take it personally. Then take some time think about what I need to do differently to make things go better for everyone. #mnlead
And I've noticed many leaders(me included) got to where we are by being outgoing, problem solving and quick to think. That can be counterintuitive when listening...#mnlead
A3. Breathe, take in the criticism and really consider the underlying need...then, I consider how I can shift my actions to better support the others' needs while staying true to my ultimate goal. #mnlead
Q3: I am always open and honest... I tackle difficult conversations immediately and head-on. People respect direct communication. They will almost always respond in an open and hones way... If you beat around the bush you so will they!
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A3- wear a good deodorant?? 😂 Conflicts are always tough. Highlight strengths...don’t sugar coat, but be honest and find a positive to address an area needing growth. Give them time to reflect and think...ask some direct questions to guide convos. #mnlead
A3)It is important to Listen/Process this type of communication. It’s too easy to disregard/mock it. But I find myself thinking “Are they right?” And then move on from there. And when/if they’re right #OwnIt and if applicable, apologize. #mnlead
A3: I take the opportunity to reflect on the feedback & how it can help me better my practice. I often ask for reflection time before responding. #mnlead
A3 That is tricky. Critical feedback at the wrong time can feel very personal. I try to listen w/o needing to defend myself. There is a reason for this conversation. #mnlead
A3. One is being OK with agreeing to disagree. Know when to disengage and find a new strategy for addressing an issue when the conversation goes south. #MNLead
Agree Jean! I find that when I get upset, it is normally at myself. I have to make sure that I don't let my body language transfer that anger to the other person.
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A3) I try to listen and not take it personally. Then take some time think about what I need to do differently to make things go better for everyone. #mnlead
A3. Listening is essential and you need to look for truth in criticism, but after evaluating it...it is also okay to believe that the criticism was off target. Then move on. #mnlead
They can and certainly do on many aspects, but when it comes to things about schedules, staffing, etc. they wouldn't know what is best. 1 example is rest time would involve watching movies on the smart board if they had their way. :) #MNLead
A3.1 I think many Ts fear that P-T conference W the Angry/Upset Parent… After Teaching for 25 yrs, I learned to be ok with those. At least they’re engaged enough to be upset and come to talk to you. I’d rather have a P who is mad and engaged than 1 who isn’t. Con’t #mnlead
There were times as administrator when negative feedback was given that I would ask the individual what he/she would have done in the situation. #mnlead
A3.2: We are in a "business" that is founded in relationships and human interaction. There is no textbook as to what works in every situation. Be authentic, be dynamic, be humble, and be responsive. That is all we can hope for from each other. #mnlead
A3.1- When I’m the recipient of uncomfortable or critical feedback I ask for time to reflect. Reflect on my actions, others, & how we can move forward together. Also need to keep Ss as THE priority in decisions. They need us regardless of how hard it is. #KIdsDeserveIt#mnlead
A3 That is tricky. Critical feedback at the wrong time can feel very personal. I try to listen w/o needing to defend myself. There is a reason for this conversation. #mnlead
And I think one of the best ways to get the voice of 4 & 5yr olds is to spend time observing them. Their body language and behavior tells you a lot about their needs, what works well/doesn't, etc. #MNLead
A3 If we have spent time developing relationships, it will be easier to receive the difficult message. The pre-work will help us handle the communication. #mnlead
A3) Pause, reflect, look for where our overlap is (my/their perception) & build from there. If can’t find then I seek support from admin/peers. #mnlead
A3.2: We are in a "business" that is founded in relationships and human interaction. There is no textbook as to what works in every situation. Be authentic, be dynamic, be humble, and be responsive. That is all we can hope for from each other. #mnlead
As part of the reflection process, I often think about if the feedback being shared is something I have heard from others, or just this particular individual. #MNLead
And we have to acknowledge we are human. Even at the top of our game, there will be times when certain feedback may hit a nerve. It's how we react in those times that speak to who we are. #mnlead
A3 If we have spent time developing relationships, it will be easier to receive the difficult message. The pre-work will help us handle the communication. #mnlead
As a teacher I do this daily, but I have seen others jump to make decisions without taking time to experience things from the Ss perspective. What looks good on paper can be a disaster in reality... #mnlead
A3. #mnlead I follow a process to make decisions and If the situation allows it. I share the process with the person providing me with feedback. We learn together as part of learning together I own my mistakes.
A4 I intentionally ask each admin & board member at the end of our 1:1 meetings if there are things I can do to improve for them. Opens the door for important conversations. #mnlead
A4) I'm not sure its a "what" but a "who" I listen too. Feedback from my T's is vital to my growth as an Adm. The plan in my head is clear but do I communicate properly? I need to know that from my T's. #mnlead
TRUTH. As a data and assessment person I would have little actual authority but might have some intimidating numbers. I needed trusting relationships and they needed to know "why" working with me moved the learning forward in positive ways. #mnlead
A4 I intentionally ask each admin & board member at the end of our 1:1 meetings if there are things I can do to improve for them. Opens the door for important conversations. #mnlead
A4) As a 30 year veteran I listen for things that will help me to continue to grow and get better for my students. My job is to get better everyday, no matter what it takes. #mnlead
A4: New ideas! I am always listening for new ideas... In education we repeat so often when I hear new and novel ideas, I take notice. I also look for ideas that get results. Unless you are proven, you are just talking...
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A3. #mnlead I also remind myself that leading is not easy and that sometimes people are not going to agree with my decision. I have to be confident that I did what was best for kids.
A4) As a 30 year veteran I listen for things that will help me to continue to grow and get better for my students. My job is to get better everyday, no matter what it takes. #mnlead
A3.2: We are in a "business" that is founded in relationships and human interaction. There is no textbook as to what works in every situation. Be authentic, be dynamic, be humble, and be responsive. That is all we can hope for from each other. #mnlead
A4 I’m looking/listening for things I don’t know and/or things I think I can/should improve upon. #ABR Always Be Reflecting… #mnlead These things can come form PLCS’s, Twitter, Articles and even F2F conversations w/ People!
A4: One of my fav tweets reads: We want kids to beat down our doors to get into school. I want the same from teachers. Watching teachers & other staff for joy, satisfaction, and enthusiasm are good touch-points. #mnlead
A4: Asking or seeking feedback to determine if I lived out my values today. Is my community better bc I am in it & am I better today bc I was in my community of learners? #mnlead
A4) As a 30 year veteran I listen for things that will help me to continue to grow and get better for my students. My job is to get better everyday, no matter what it takes. #mnlead
A4 The things I seek are to understand what the person wants to achieve. Is it to solve a problem, grow, vent, etc? That helps me enter and leave a conversation in a positive way. #mnlead
A4: Listen more deeply to the skepticism & criticism than you do the praise for often it will make the path more clear, more rewarding, and more accepted. #mnlead
A4) I do a lot of observing what others are doingthatvis succesful, then figure out how to add it to MY practice (may look slightly different). There is such talent out there! #mnlead
A4.1 I had a mentor 23 yrs ago -Gary Agree - who preached that “Good Teaching is about theft…” What he meant was that always be looking for what others do better than I, then “steal” it. #mnlead
A4. What @Craig_SPPS said! Listen for ideas...whether they're new to me to push my thinking or to truly understand the speaker. It all boils down to ideas. #mnlead
A4. #mnlead I believe is important to find the balance between supporters and non-supporters of your leading style. If all I heard is great things, I will be blindsided and before I know it a Toxic Culture will be brewing in the school.
A4.1 I had a mentor 23 yrs ago -Gary Agree - who preached that “Good Teaching is about theft…” What he meant was that always be looking for what others do better than I, then “steal” it. #mnlead
After our last admin meeting, I checked to see if I came off to forceful on my delivery of a point in our book study. Also check to see if the overall intent was received. All depends on the meeting. #mnlead
A4. #mnlead I believe is important to find the balance between supporters and non-supporters of your leading style. If all I heard is great things, I will be blindsided and before I know it a Toxic Culture will be brewing in the school.
A4- I’m not always good at it, but I listen for the passion and the why of the conversation. I ask questions about how it impacts students if I feel like it doesn’t quite match my thoughts. I don’t assume I’m right, so please...tell me more!! 👍🏼 #mnlead
After our last admin meeting, I checked to see if I came off to forceful on my delivery of a point in our book study. Also check to see if the overall intent was received. All depends on the meeting. #mnlead
I seek out those that will be honest with me and tell the truth. I can get caught up in all the good comments & fail to see the areas of growth.
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A5) I spend 20 minutes in the morning surrounded by them prior to being released to their classes. I'm in the lunchroom for both sessions. Both those times allow me to see S's and hear them if they need me. #mnlead
A5) My students are staff I consult with. I send a follow up survey 3 weeks afterwards to see if our ideas are meeting the needs, and if not what additional supports do they need. #mnlead
A5 This is important. Model and believe in Respect Ss and Ts, let them know you’re not perfect/infallable. Be self-deprecating and let them know you CARE about them either way. Good or Bad feedback/communication. #mnlead
A5) I spend 20 minutes in the morning surrounded by them prior to being released to their classes. I'm in the lunchroom for both sessions. Both those times allow me to see S's and hear them if they need me. #mnlead
I am good with the term "professional collaboration". Its the superpower behind PLC's and PLN's - it is central for all of us learners out there. #mnlead
A5: I'm asking kids directly everyday... What's working for you? What is not? How are you doing? If not so well, why not? What can I do to make it better? #mnlead
A5) I could do more to think of specific Q's to ask S's throughout the school year though. I shouldn't just wait for them to come to me, I should ask. Proactive approach #mnlead
A5: Be present, engaged, interested, and available. I greet and send off the buses every day, stroll through the cafeteria for 1.5 hours, and stroll the halls and classrooms. Ss also message me on Schoology ALL.THE.TIME! Keep it up. #mnlead
A5. When I am interacting with the Ss (4 & 5yr olds), I try to solicit feedback on what they are enjoying, things they want to do/do more of. Better 1:1 to get true feeling vs repeating of what last person said. Also observe & listen to what they share/are doing w/ peers #mnlead
A5 - Work at trying to be warm and welcoming so they are comfortable communicating! Again its about being proactive so that all students know you care with they need you #mnlead
A5) I treat my student the exact same way I expect them to treat me. In an honest and respectful manner. If I have spent enough time building relationships this takes care of itself. #mnlead
A5- you have to have true relationships w/Ss before you are going to get real communication and feedback. Be honest, be genuine, be present. You have to be real, and they need to know you care. They will tell it like it is (whether you want to hear it or not!) #mnlead
A5 I take two students to @Rotary each Wednesday & I ask them What is the best thing about Westwood? & What is the one thing I could change today that would make the school better? Always get honest answers! #mnlead
A5 I take two students to @Rotary each Wednesday & I ask them What is the best thing about Westwood? & What is the one thing I could change today that would make the school better? Always get honest answers! #mnlead
A5.1 Give Surveys to the students about you and your teaching… Then Share the Data with them and talk about it. I’m giving my 1st semester survey tomorrow. ;-) #mnlead
A5. #mnlead@LauraGWillis had the great idea to survey kids every quarter. All the Ss had iPads and we used a Google form to survey them. The Ts answered the same survey and then compare answers. The questions on the survey came from the CIP.
A5 From students? With a smile whenever possible(not condescendingly)! Kids can be honest in a way most adults can't. It means more when they can speak their truth. It motivates me. It all goes back to asking,"Is it good for kids?" Their feedback is critical. #mnlead
Many thanks to all the fine educators who joined #mnlead tonight to “sharpen” our professional “saws”. We can never talk enough about communication and feedback. Happy Thanksgiving all! #mnlead
