#MASSPchat Archive
Chats will be moderated by MASSP staff, members of the MASSP Board of Directors and MASSP Members – we will also have special guest moderators on occasion.
Monday March 7, 2016
Good Evening! Jenni Thunberg, AP, Bay City Central
Hi Wendy! I'm Tracy Wilson Principal at Grand Haven HS & Pres-Elect for MASSP
Basgall over here creepin'
Hi Jenni- Thanks for joining in. Hope you had a great day. https://t.co/VMijzLkwjW
Good Evening! Jenni Thunberg, AP, Bay City Central
Scott Pfeiffer, MS/HS Principal at Countryside Academy in Benton Harbor.
Hello Madame Pres Elect! Always good to have you on the chat! That is 3/3 with MASSP Board Members! https://t.co/TlFz1O38Ot
Hi Wendy! I'm Tracy Wilson Principal at Grand Haven HS & Pres-Elect for MASSP
Hi Scott- Thanks for being with us again this week! https://t.co/ql8CUABgjM
Scott Pfeiffer, MS/HS Principal at Countryside Academy in Benton Harbor.
Jason Schrock - Howell High School -hope you don't mind I'm just lurking tonight while getting caught up w/email!
Denise Kott, Clawson, Instructional Coach
The first question will post shortly...we will use the Q1: and then you respond with A1: format, keeps us organized!
Hi Jason- Great to work with you and your colleagues today. Thanks for the check in. https://t.co/kjk7wUXHAn
Jason Schrock - Howell High School -hope you don't mind I'm just lurking tonight while getting caught up w/email!
Kaarin Averill tweeting for Oakland University School of Ed.
If you're out there lurking just check in so we know you're with us.
Hi Kaarin- We appreciate having your voice in ! https://t.co/E9JuGho7qg
Kaarin Averill tweeting for Oakland University School of Ed.
Q1: Delegating is critical but tricky. How do you decide if you can delegate or if you need to do something yourself?
Tammy from EJ. Checking in after a huge district game win. EJ all the way!
Good for you & your kids! https://t.co/H4ygySArQL
Tammy from EJ. Checking in after a huge district game win. EJ all the way!
Roy Bishop, AP in Birmingham Checking in tonight!
A1: I need to learn how to say no more. My plate is overflowing! But it's all too important to not handle right now.
A1: depends if want 2 b a manager or a leader in your position
Steve Carlson, Principal of Sandusky Jr/Sr High School, checking in at halftime! Got one for question or two!
HAVE YOU EVER had one of those moments when you should have kept your mouth shut but didn't? Read this -> https://t.co/9JvWf18qYV
Jenny Geno AP Bay Arenac Career Center checking in.
Barb Birchmeier Corunna High School Academic Principal excited to check in tonight
Common problem! Watch for mission creep to help keep your focus so you don't burn out. https://t.co/U4CdyvMk7n
A1: I need to learn how to say no more. My plate is overflowing! But it's all too important to not handle right now.
A1: Does the delegatee (if that is a word) have the knowledge/training needed to complete the task?
BAM! Great point. Part of leading is shared leadership. https://t.co/gszf8IhqrP
A1: depends if want 2 b a manager or a leader in your position
A1: Safe/comfortable to delegate if already discussed with staff, or crystal clear directions. Always choose wisely on who!
Delegate based on passions of those around you! Delegation can empower others when done correctly.
A1: This is a hard thing but if u start with things that are low stakes and build trust w/ staff, u can give tougher stuff later.
A1: The more I delegate, with support, the more leaders I build, which is my goal.
Hi Barb- Feel free to chime in! https://t.co/LuZx5KYHqY
Barb Birchmeier Corunna High School Academic Principal excited to check in tonight
A1. lots of factors, r u new? who do u trust? What r u trying to do? low r high risk
A1: Do you have someone w/ time & skill set for the situation? If so, delegate and share leadership! https://t.co/TcozNKVCV6
Q1: Delegating is critical but tricky. How do you decide if you can delegate or if you need to do something yourself?
Great point...We want to set people up for success, perhaps a slight stretch? https://t.co/njiQETpKLr
A1: Does the delegatee (if that is a word) have the knowledge/training needed to complete the task?
A1 I don't do it well. I try and think of it as an opportunity for someone versus a burden.
BAM! So true! Really great point. https://t.co/HYFfKS6PFO
Delegate based on passions of those around you! Delegation can empower others when done correctly.
Good point. If someone offers to take something on, give them the opportunity, providing structure.
A1:Leadership is about empowerment and teamwork. Knowing ur staff & trusting them is key to positive culture & pos ldrship.
Preach it! You phased this nicely. https://t.co/kReh014Gw5
A1: The more I delegate, with support, the more leaders I build, which is my goal.
I agree...what r u trying to do and high or low risk https://t.co/kSgm1cvM8F
A1. lots of factors, r u new? who do u trust? What r u trying to do? low r high risk
A1. Goal would be to share power as much as possible but circumstances have to be considered. If trust is high delegate a lot
Absolutely! Structure and Support is key!
This is the most important factor...skill set. https://t.co/piWNV70pKL
A1: Do you have someone w/ time & skill set for the situation? If so, delegate and share leadership! https://t.co/TcozNKVCV6
Q1: Delegating is critical but tricky. How do you decide if you can delegate or if you need to do something yourself?
...academic principal, cool . What are the differences?
It's is sometimes important to delegate opportunities that can stretch your people.
Eric Curl AP at Holly Middle School "lurking" and getting kiddos ready for bed...they're winning again
A1: discerning whether it is a cultural or instructional matter, regardless I seek the input/insights of leadership team
It is a fine line, but there are definitely staff that would welcome the opportunity to support/help. https://t.co/EBHnf6izFW
A1 I don't do it well. I try and think of it as an opportunity for someone versus a burden.
A1 I think about if I need help and if I know anyone that's expressed wanting to learn about said task/topic
This is the message you send to the staff when you delegate/share leadership...I trust you. https://t.co/pJdjGZmhhn
A1. Goal would be to share power as much as possible but circumstances have to be considered. If trust is high delegate a lot
Structure and support allow you, as says "to empower without abdicating."
Hello my friend! Thanks for the check in. https://t.co/EdrK0MrW5I
Eric Curl AP at Holly Middle School "lurking" and getting kiddos ready for bed...they're winning again
BAM! We need to have conversations w/staff...where do they want to help, support & grow their capacity. https://t.co/jwv5KeFnGR
A1 I think about if I need help and if I know anyone that's expressed wanting to learn about said task/topic
Read your staff find out real quick when you need to take the reins and when you need to hand them off.
Yes! https://t.co/d1k3qjDjvN
A1:Leadership is about empowerment and teamwork. Knowing ur staff & trusting them is key to positive culture & pos ldrship.
Our jobs seem to have a shorter shelf life as time goes on. These opportunities promote teacher ownership
Marci Moloney SE Director-Brighton. Checking in
Q2 is in the hopper- great to see you interacting/responding to each other, keep it up- that makes the chat even better!
Game on! Enjoy the rest of the chat, friends!
Important to know your staff to be able to do this well, excellent point! https://t.co/b3yBIdwlRQ
Read your staff find out real quick when you need to take the reins and when you need to hand them off.
A1: Deadline sometimes dictates whether it can be delegated. Size of task/work, close to kids/staff plays role. manage or lead?
Q2: Communication...How do you ensure that information you present is clear & easy to understand? Do you check for understanding?
Trust is key! Empowering others is a great way to build it!
Yes! Lack of trust is a culture killer!
A2: Delegation requires check-ins, as frequent as necessary. If you've communicated well, people will be on track.
A2: important info-always follow up in writing. I send a weekly principal's notes too-to highlight imp info.
A2: There has to be some sort of follow-up...email, survey, conversation. If it is important, it needs to be revisited.
Q2 Ts need to be able to "talk the walk" (explain vision) to ensure understanding. This brings coherence which produces results.
When I write a staff email I say "Tim, come here read this real quick" ☺️ "How will this be interpreted" https://t.co/ZRyVjbFq5p
Q2: Communication...How do you ensure that information you present is clear & easy to understand? Do you check for understanding?
A2. LOVE visible thinking routines for this. Utilize routines or protocols where all voices are heard
A2 Communicate the same message in a variety of ways/times. Definitely check for understanding, listen to questions, follow up
Q2: I utilize strategies I want teachers using. Plan w/engagement and formative assessment in mind. Then, be open for questions.
A2: I try to give info to them in multiple ways and then follow up individually with those that I know need that support.
A2: Clear communication is critical. Have staff summarize key points & share next steps to check for understanding.
but how is trust defined? Sometimes it's only a one way street to obtain.
BAM! Also have staff leaders share their take on the message for reinforcement. https://t.co/3a1n6VdUeM
A2 Communicate the same message in a variety of ways/times. Definitely check for understanding, listen to questions, follow up
A2: My principal is awesome at communicating with our staff certain info that is pertinent for us to know!
A2: Sa Sync/bulleted written & verbal communication. ✔️for understanding by allowing ?'s, feedback, ...
https://t.co/XIHS3DptMf
Q2: Communication...How do you ensure that information you present is clear & easy to understand? Do you check for understanding?
A2. You may have delegated leadership but you still have to support with your presence or some kind of check in
BAM! Thank you Madame Past-President for that good tip! Everyone needs reminders. https://t.co/3Zs9lsoYPl
A2: important info-always follow up in writing. I send a weekly principal's notes too-to highlight imp info.
I read that adult learners need to hear the information 5 times to fully absorb it. https://t.co/wovr2cwg52
A2: There has to be some sort of follow-up...email, survey, conversation. If it is important, it needs to be revisited.
I try to send an email then follow up face to face to collaborate together. I always try to ask; How can I best support you.
Love visible thinking! “:A2LOVE visible thinking routines for this.Utilize routines/protocols where all voices r heard ”
Critical friends are a must! We need those key staff members as sounding boards. https://t.co/SC7fCyDrrM
When I write a staff email I say "Tim, come here read this real quick" ☺️ "How will this be interpreted" https://t.co/ZRyVjbFq5p
Q2: Communication...How do you ensure that information you present is clear & easy to understand? Do you check for understanding?
YES! Its a two-for...model the best practice & increase staff learning/buy in. https://t.co/NTDePQZ5qc
A2. LOVE visible thinking routines for this. Utilize routines or protocols where all voices are heard
So true! Trust has to be earned especially among your staff. Once you have it, then it can be leveraged.
Model what we want to see in the classroom...it then becomes part of what we do here. Love it. https://t.co/IUkXDWXVYW
Q2: I utilize strategies I want teachers using. Plan w/engagement and formative assessment in mind. Then, be open for questions.
Probably much better than him walking down after and telling you how he took it. 😉
BAM! 1st year teachers...those that may struggle w/a particular initiative. Support them. https://t.co/5rysAEu5nz
A2: I try to give info to them in multiple ways and then follow up individually with those that I know need that support.
Q2: W/emails I try to use bullets & keep it brief also follow up after discussion for clarity
Absolutely! Staff interactions should be full of teachable moments!
A2: Weekly parent & staff eblast and just started student eblast ... very specific info
Q2 We developed rubrics 4 each initiative in the Disitrict and had Ts revisit & self assess every month. Great way 2 communicate
Busy people do like bullet points! (right ) https://t.co/Z9e3Myx3Iu
Q2: W/emails I try to use bullets & keep it brief also follow up after discussion for clarity
it's always a thin line grasshopper!
BAM! Thanks for expanding the importance of clear communication- to parents & even students. https://t.co/w7YE8tUE8k
A2: Weekly parent & staff eblast and just started student eblast ... very specific info
Q3: Part of clear communication...How do you alter your writing style for different stakeholder groups? Who proofs for you?
A3: I am typically the one that edits everything for everyone in my bldg! Knowing ur audience dictates tone &voice.
A3: As an English T I've always been aware of writing for my audience, but need to have critical friends in S, P & T to proof.
A3: My principal has me proof read some of her letters... 😅
A3 I always read my emails to everyone in the front office first. I love when parents and students are there to chime in too!
A3: Use bullets for eblasts, more formal for mailings to all stakeholder. AP's, secretaries-lots of 👀's https://t.co/qO9QzME31a
Q3: Part of clear communication...How do you alter your writing style for different stakeholder groups? Who proofs for you?
Good point about tone & voice-not always easy to ensure written communication is being taken as intended. https://t.co/iUumTCqmiz
A3: I am typically the one that edits everything for everyone in my bldg! Knowing ur audience dictates tone &voice.
A3. just try to consider the priorities of the audience
A3: 1 thing that has to be the same is who they go to with additional ?s. Frustrating when people are searching for answers.
Sorry to duck out early- life takes over some evenings!
Smart lady! She has an eye for talent & capacity building. :) https://t.co/zgrASNnmZ9
A3: My principal has me proof read some of her letters... 😅
A3: Beware of email! Too many people put student/sensitive info in their communication.
And they probably enjoy being included! https://t.co/X2HDWf0Nfm
A3 I always read my emails to everyone in the front office first. I love when parents and students are there to chime in too!
A3: Simple and plain is best approach for me and I use my two counterparts to proof at times I prefer to write w/o punctuation!
A3: it is difficult to have that extra proof...sometimes time is limited & so is personnel, but needed
There are teachable moments in terms of communication- good chance to remind people of legalities. https://t.co/cElj5K0ytW
A3: Beware of email! Too many people put student/sensitive info in their communication.
Emoticons can help with this if used correctly!
Admin 101 right here people- KISS...what do they need to know? https://t.co/3iCvBknfsN
A3. just try to consider the priorities of the audience
A3: As a Master's instructor told me, you'll lose them after 100 words. Short, simple and sweet is the way to go.
Nice +1 to this! Important to provide the communication but also the resource for follow up. https://t.co/KqURJVEwki
A3: 1 thing that has to be the same is who they go to with additional ?s. Frustrating when people are searching for answers.
People are busy! Very valid point. https://t.co/qQRh4UoM7e
A3: As a Master's instructor told me, you'll lose them after 100 words. Short, simple and sweet is the way to go.
When I ask for input on something I have written, it shows I value and trust people, particularly when I use their suggestions.
Q4: Next skill, developing others- How do you teach, coach and develop your staff (not just teachers)?
A3: I read parent newsletters to my wife before sending them.No one I trust more to let me know if I sound like a buffoon or not!
and credit them for their input & ideas! https://t.co/E9k249KeFW
When I ask for input on something I have written, it shows I value and trust people, particularly when I use their suggestions.
This is very true & does a lot to build positive relationships!
Anyone on the chat that can help Mary? https://t.co/lGM5oslleM
Anyone willing to share successful MTSS strategies for the high school level?
A3 consider a variety of audiences, have someone proofread with the intended outcomes in mind
I have used survey monkey a few times this yr to get input and then went from there based on results https://t.co/7WoB5lGnc6
When I ask for input on something I have written, it shows I value and trust people, particularly when I use their suggestions.
Wise man! https://t.co/O4aOGfLekQ
A3: I read parent newsletters to my wife before sending them.No one I trust more to let me know if I sound like a buffoon or not!
A4: Feedback & coaching. 1 focuses on past performance the other on the future. Honesty, listening & positive intent are critical
A4: Important to provide learning opportunities & to teach in the moment with staff. Embedded learning is key.
I have staff visit other classes in our bldg and/or in other districts. Providing time for discourse about practice is crucial.
BAM! Your last sentence is so key. https://t.co/DF01Snq9Nr
A4: Feedback & coaching. 1 focuses on past performance the other on the future. Honesty, listening & positive intent are critical
Love this. As admins we learn so much from watching good instruction- share this experience w/staff. https://t.co/sePei2Q3YP
I have staff visit other classes in our bldg and/or in other districts. Providing time for discourse about practice is crucial.
A4: model what you need to see & treat others how you always want to be treated. When giving feedback praise,probe, propose
A4. Provide leadership opportunities for them, let them know you support them
A4: Admin 101...When you provide instant feedback to reinforce behavior it will be repeated.
A4 By first listening and establishing a relationship before you need a relationship!
Asking for input and feedback also opens doors for people to tell you what is on their minds. Always good.
More Admin 101- Really great pieces. Thanks for this share! https://t.co/5TCejsCD4A
A4: model what you need to see & treat others how you always want to be treated. When giving feedback praise,probe, propose
A4: feedback needs to be quick and non-threatening. The longer you wait, message is lost.
Q4, know your aspiring leaders, learn about staff interests, involve them in authentic experiences, seek out their perspectives
Great topics for an aspiring admin to sit-in on. Thanks
Yes Sir! It always comes back to relationships. https://t.co/fctxHVf5Ky
A4 By first listening and establishing a relationship before you need a relationship!
A4 Teach and coach by putting yourself right back in the teachers shoes. Team teach in the classroom and give each other feedback
Also builds collaborative,supportive culture. In the end, kids win because practice improves.
A3: Eliminate jargon and sometimes analogies can help non-educators connect to curriculum, instruction, assessment, etc.
BAM! This is true to everyone don't you think?Students, teachers, parent volunteers etc. People value it. https://t.co/XWfDR70BQY
A4: feedback needs to be quick and non-threatening. The longer you wait, message is lost.
BAM! Happy to showcase the expertise of Michigan Principals! https://t.co/RhDhc8aHPe
Great topics for an aspiring admin to sit-in on. Thanks
you know someone on your staff has asked why doesn't he use punctuation?? Lol😄
Thanks for popping in with this post Connie! Really good point. Not using "edu-speak" is critical. https://t.co/TSYCFQ5koe
A3: Eliminate jargon and sometimes analogies can help non-educators connect to curriculum, instruction, assessment, etc.
A4: Allow opportunities to lead, affirm contribution, provide feedback. Need time to coach & support.
Everything in life is about relationships! When we forget that, is when things go south.
A4 Feedback needs to be timely and you must differentiate your approach based on their learning style.
Need to make time to coach & support, right? https://t.co/5UyGSN5VjR
A4: Allow opportunities to lead, affirm contribution, provide feedback. Need time to coach & support.
YES! What better way to be that instructional leader than to demonstrate this! https://t.co/Mq2XxsJwt8
A4 Feedback needs to be timely and you must differentiate your approach based on their learning style.
And knowing your staff is how you do that effectively!
If you're not coaching and supporting, you are only supervising. That's not leadership, it's management.
Q5: Last skill...developing self: How do you take stock of your own strengths/weaknesses? How do you strive to improve?
Any resources out there for Mary? https://t.co/pKjJzRiAHY
Anyone willing to share successful MTSS strategies for the high school level?
Yes Sir! https://t.co/wicXm48h2P
If you're not coaching and supporting, you are only supervising. That's not leadership, it's management.
Amen!! Could not have said it better!! Decide if you are leading or managing.
A5. Constant reflection and reading. My go-to is Kouzes and Posner's The Leadership Challenge
A5: So important to know yourself & to seek the expertise of others for your own weak areas, great opportunity to be authentic.
punctuation is overrated at times! Jk
All acronyms and any edu-speak.
Examples:
Formative assessment
Intervention
Vertical alignment
Depth of Knowledge
A5: ask my team and staff what I can do better for them, look at my yearly goals, and seek feedback from my boss
I reflect a lot and ask for feedback. Also have two mentors, one focuses on the positive, the other on where I need to grow.
A5 By constantly asking yourself and others, what I can do better?
A5: I ask for feedback often from staff & practice an open door, collaborative approach. We r all in this together for kids.
A5: acknowledging weaknesses and surrounding yourself w/people who are strong in those areas. Don't surround yourself with you!
we use PLCs, weekly meetings, teachers have ownership of list. Teacher is chair of MTTS. I can explain more in email
A5: Sometimes strengths are also constraints...accept feedback 'If you don't know it, you can't grow it!'
https://t.co/I8Yzu0acjX
Q5: Last skill...developing self: How do you take stock of your own strengths/weaknesses? How do you strive to improve?
A5. Also Daniel Goleman's Primal Leadership and Switch, by Chip and Dan Heath
A5: Some of my best PD/learning comes fromTwitter
A5 listen to and ask for feedback, evaluate carryover of communication(s), dialogue and reflect with colleagues
Wowzers! Yep! https://t.co/S9S3werTRT
A5: acknowledging weaknesses and surrounding yourself w/people who are strong in those areas. Don't surround yourself with you!
A5: Review eval model bi-weekly. Evidence of effectiveness? How has my time been spent in light of how I am being evaluated?
I reflect on what people say, but also consider what they don't say. Am I accessible when times are good and bad?
Good point...are we willing to be open enough to survey students, staff & parents about our performance? https://t.co/OWyq8b2H4E
A5 By constantly asking yourself and others, what I can do better?
A5: self-reflection and looking for that person that can hold up the mirror so can see what others see
A5. Establish a Principal Advisory Committee who will be brutally honest with you
Love it and that is so you! https://t.co/w9j2bw5INe
A5: Sometimes strengths are also constraints...accept feedback 'If you don't know it, you can't grow it!'
https://t.co/I8Yzu0acjX
Q5: Last skill...developing self: How do you take stock of your own strengths/weaknesses? How do you strive to improve?
A5: I'm public about my weakness and why I create strategies to overcome. i.e. literally cover my mouth so I don't talk as much.
A5 Frequent reflection and constant collaboration with others who have strengths in areas that you lack.
A5: Be able to laugh @ yourself & allow others to see your vulnerability. If your cup is already overflowing, it's hard to grow!
Me too! PLN is a critical piece to continuous improvement! https://t.co/klePKZaRMq
A5: Some of my best PD/learning comes fromTwitter
So true! Wise leaders know their weak spots &empower those with those strengths.
Thanks! It's very helpful. We meet 4-5 times per year, critical to my growth and learning as a leader.
A5: Request feedback and USE IT. Be transparent about how you've tried to improve.
BAM! +1 Share the feedback w/staff and the actions you've taken based on what you've been told/requested. https://t.co/VIq2mBqUJ3
A5. Establish a Principal Advisory Committee who will be brutally honest with you
A5: Ask for help when you need it. Give public praise and appreciation for those who help.
Monitoring your own behavior is part of changing it to be sure! https://t.co/CNcFmLGtmR
A5: I'm public about my weakness and why I create strategies to overcome. i.e. literally cover my mouth so I don't talk as much.
When I delegate! “: So true! Wise leaders know their weak spots &empower those with those strengths.”
