#leadupchat focuses on school leadership broadly, culture, changing paradigms, and the growth mindset. It's an Ed movement focused on Leadership, Culture, Growth and Shifts on Saturdays at 8:30am CST, founded by Jeff Veal (@heffrey) and Nathan Lang (@nalang1).
Good morning tribe! Jeff here, co-founder of #LeadUpChat! Ready to engage with you today on "Duplicity." Look for tweets from me! Feel free to retweet Qs today so others can follow along!
Good morning #leadupchat Brent from Magrath ALberta. Working out and chatting. Today will be a day of multitasking but just got off a holiday so it is catch up time.
Good morning #LeadUpChat! Latoya, ed leader, checking in from the beautiful state of South Carolina with a fresh cup of ☕️ in hand! Ready to learn with all of you!
Every child is unique, and how you teach them can be too! Thrively helps you discover your students’ strengths and interests and gives you easy-to- use content to personalize their
learning. https://t.co/Ib6chkoWC5#satchat#parentinghacks#k12#leadupchat
What to stop doing? 1). Announcements in meetings; 2). Homework done at home; 3). Punishing students in May for the sins of January. 4). “Formative assessments that are not informative.
#leadupchathttps://t.co/9dOoMKpqEk
A1 In some districts the expectation to do everything the same way in every building is there. Freedom to respect individual cultures and allow for different paths leading to goals. #leadupchat
What to stop doing? 1). Announcements in meetings; 2). Homework done at home; 3). Punishing students in May for the sins of January. 4). “Formative assessments that are not informative.
#leadupchathttps://t.co/9dOoMKpqEk
A1: No holding back in today's #leadupchat! I think this is a school to school decision--but what one answer is common to all. Stop doing whatever isn't working. Use multiple measures to identify what that is...then stop.
A1: We need to stop worrying about our educational system and remember that to the students in our classroom, we are the educational system. Change start with each one of us.
#LeadUpChat
A1 Change in education is a loooong list. My number one concern is lack of equity. This is true across the political, economic spectrums too. #leadupchat
Stop waiting for perfection. “We won’t do this unless you prove that it will work with eery student” is code for “we will n her change or innovate."
#leadupchathttps://t.co/jJcGOx85a1
A1: Stop feeling like you have to solve it on your own. And, "Enlightened trial and error succeeds over the planning of the lone genius" @ideo#leadupchat
A1: Using computerized programs in place of people to help children learn to read. Substituting a multiple choice test for a conversation is not only inauthentic but it is also SUPER boring for kids who love to read. #leadupchat
We need education leaders in school to show more vulnerability and create a culture that teachers feel comfortable being bold and trying new things in the classroom as well as being honest about areas of improvement. #leadupchat
A1: Tough question. We need to examine what we do constantly and stop doing what isn’t working. Stop ineffective practices. And...stop isolation...all educators must be connected. #leadupchat
A1. I’ve been thinking about how traditional schooling rewards compliance, yet the real world rewards innovation. I’m worried we are conditioning students to believe being academically compliant will bring success when creativity & critical thinking matter most! #Leadupchat
A1. We need to remember the BASICS. Developmentally appropriate practices supported by theory and research are tried and true for a reason. #Leadupchat
A1: let’s stop teacher centered focus on knowledge imparting and move to a healthy balance of student centered focus on knowledge acquisition #LeadUpChat
A1 #leadupchat Stop thinking of assessments as something we are forced to do and it's outcome as a the peril or prize of one's evaluation, or even worse an I got up for the student. Embrace assessments as a tool to inform, redirect, and support student learning & teacher mastery.
A1...part 2...I also think we need to stop saying "This is how we have always done it. It works." We must be open to moving from what works to what works well for kids. #leadupchat
A1: We need to stop making decisions out of fear (of scores, the unknown) Stop assuming we know the best way to move forward and that one-size-fits-all. Empower teachers to pursue their passions so that they can create powerful learning experiences for students. #leadupchat
A1 Stop sympathizing and make a conscious effort to empathize. Seek to understand the context that some of our Ss face and support them by facilitating, encouraging, guiding, and providing the academic push to achieve their limitless potential #leadupchat
A1. I’ve been thinking about how traditional schooling rewards compliance, yet the real world rewards innovation. I’m worried we are conditioning students to believe being academically compliant will bring success when creativity & critical thinking matter most! #Leadupchat
A1 Change in education is a loooong list. My number one concern is lack of equity. This is true across the political, economic spectrums too. #leadupchat
A1: We need to have teachers stop asking all the questions, or even the majority of the questions. I am absolutely convinced that students need to learn how to ask good questions themselves and then have the freedom to explore answers to these questions. #LeadUpChat
A1: In some buildings, Ts are each creating lessons & seeking resources rather than working collaboratively to create a “menu” of possibilities. Ts can then select what is best for their Ss rather than everyone doing the exact same thing. #LeadUpChat#LoveLiteracyLearning
A1: Well I’m just coming out of an #EduGladiators chat about Revolutionizing PD so I say stop providing PD that doesn’t support T choice and individual needs. Both Ss and Ts need to have a say in what they’re learning. Choice leads to ownership! #LeadUpChat
A1 Need to change implementation of initiatives so it includes reflection of impact on teaching/learning. Can’t just keep ‘trying’ new things with hope that it is working because it works in other places w/out providing support. #LeadUpChat
In many ways, we need to be much more reflective of our mental models that entrench us diminished thinking and limited possibilities. The disruption towards change begins with our mindset…
#leadupchat
A1. We somehow need to end the factory model, one size fits all framework. We need to help young people tap into their greatness, find their passion and purpose, ad provide opportunities or them to share their work with the world. #Leadupchat
A1b: Another issue I have is this idea that as teachers we need to stay so current with kids interests in teaching that we shoehorn in Pokemon Go, Minecraft and Fortnite to be "hip" without true purpose. #leadupchat
Agree, Chad. Alludes to the need for purposeful reflection about how we approach our day-to-day work. Essential as we seek to engage in strategic innovation to support Ss #leadupchat
A1: Tough question. We need to examine what we do constantly and stop doing what isn’t working. Stop ineffective practices. And...stop isolation...all educators must be connected. #leadupchat
A1.b -- Think more deeply about the student experience and apply those thoughts to what happens in the classroom. What is it like to live the life of a student for the day? #LeadUpChat
A1)
1. STOP Standardizing Learning and the Human Experience
2. STOP the Tyranny of Curriculum Pacing Guides
3. STOP Swimming in the Shallow End of the Learning Pool
#leadupchat
Ask a critical friend to come in and listen - do this several times for just a few minutes over many weeks. Assess if a change is taking place. If you value it - assess it #LeadUpChat
I wonder if there is any peer-reviewed research evidence that ties the number of conversations one has with a student during a week to student learning. #LeadUpChat
A1: We need to stop wasting time doing things that can be accomplished by reading an email. Also, effective planning and goal-setting with T & S involvement in decision-making is a must. #leadupchat
A1.2: Stop following your neighbor district's great ideas.
Start asking your people about their great ideas!
That's how culture is built to last.
_________________
#leadupchat
A1 Stop trying to “fix” education and create learning environments that support growth for students and teachers that are not high stakes but respect individual strengths. #LeadUpChat
A1 Remember that you have experts in your school. For example your school librarian can support digital and information literacy so ask them before you create your next lesson. #leadupchat
In many ways, we need to be much more reflective of our mental models that entrench us in diminished thinking and then limited possibilities. The disruption towards change begins with our mindset.
Maybe we don’t even need a wheel...
#leadupchat
A1. There’s a tension between our need to personalize education for our students, yet we standardize the way teaching occurs and how we assess learning. That space in between the two and balance is what I think we need. #Leadupchat
Ask a critical friend to come in and listen - do this several times for just a few minutes over many weeks. Assess if a change is taking place. If you value it - assess it #LeadUpChat
A1 We need to empower Ss to take ownership of their learning. Include Ss voice, uncover Ss thinking in the learning process. And always remember we are working with human beings - not machines w/out feelings and emotions. #LeadUpChat
In many ways, we need to be much more reflective of our mental models that entrench us in diminished thinking and then limited possibilities. The disruption towards change begins with our mindset.
Maybe we don’t even need a wheel...
#leadupchat
A1: I think we should not always say “yes” and hop on every bandwagon that speeds by. Diving deeper into themes and knowing them well is more productive than trying to keep up with every trend. #leadupchat
A2. LOVE LOVE LOVE sharing graphics about gaining more leaders!! From experience, I believe it is one of the surest ways to improve a school. We have achievement data to prove it!! #LeadUpChat
A1 #leadupchat Stop thinking of assessments as something we are forced to do and it's outcome as a the peril or prize of one's evaluation, or even worse an I got up for the student. Embrace assessments as a tool to inform, redirect, and support student learning & teacher mastery.
A1 We need to empower Ss to take ownership of their learning. Include Ss voice, uncover Ss thinking in the learning process. And always remember we are working with human beings - not machines w/out feelings and emotions. #LeadUpChat
A2: By recognizing “leadership” does not equal only administration. Build a leader-leader culture, where every single person in the building (admin, teacher, student, IA, etc.) are viewed and treated as a leader in the school. And provide them w opportunities to lead. #LeadUpChat
Agree! Collective Teacher Efficacy has an incredible effect size! We are #BetterTogether and must believe that together we can impact learning--regardless of what barriers students face outside of school. #leadupchat
A1: We need to stop making decisions out of fear (of scores, the unknown) Stop assuming we know the best way to move forward and that one-size-fits-all. Empower teachers to pursue their passions so that they can create powerful learning experiences for students. #leadupchat
A2 It has taken me a while to figure this out, but I now realize that I do not have to do everything. I just need to step back and make it possible for others to lead. They can often make progress were I can't. #leadupchat
A2: By sharing your vision and core beliefs. Then, allowing others to take it and run with it! @bobby__dodd reminds me to "Say Yes and then find a way" #leadupchat
A2 Understand where the expertise is. If one of your staff is the expert don't try to do it yourself. Giving responsibly to others is good for them and you. #leadupchat
A2 Employ shared decision-making wherever possible. Effective leaders know to create leadership space for others and are not threatened by it. #leadupchat
A2: Simply provide opportunities for others to lead in their areas of expertise. Also, it was helpful in my career that someone intentionally invested in leadership skill development. We can do that for others. #LeadUpChat
A2. Set your school up to succeed in growing teacher leaders! Purposefully plan for these seven conditions. Case of "wishing will make it come true" doesn't apply here! :-) #LeadUpChat
A2: By giving the teachers a voice in the school building, and even the district, decisions!! Making decisions without T's input is not what is in the best interest of the Ss. Give us credit for having the skills and knowledge of what's best for our kids. #leadupchat
A2: As school leaders, we can build leadership capacity through a culture of trust, collaboration, peer observation with feedback, and encouraging edus to grow their #PLN, join Twitter, take risks, and join the learning train. #LeadUpChat
A1. We need to form real PLCs with other schools & other districts for best practices. Others may have already solved our issues. Sometimes it seems that schools & districts are competing with each other!#LeadUpChat
I went to Twitter Math Camp 2 yrs ago & did a study on why participants came. The only common thread I could find is pretty much all felt they had a "niche." Every discussion was reflective & positive, even w/disagreement. #leadupchat
A1: We need to dig deeper into learning experiences that create and develop skills that transfer beyond campus spaces. We can shift our focus from learning content facts to building skills by reducing or integrating curr standards overall. #leadupchat#4Cshttps://t.co/1Ph5CiLYrI
Yes! Every person has areas of strength. Develop a culture where sharing/leading becomes the norm. Adult collaboration can be powerful and have huge positive impact on Ss learning. #LeadUpChat
A2: By recognizing “leadership” does not equal only administration. Build a leader-leader culture, where every single person in the building (admin, teacher, student, IA, etc.) are viewed and treated as a leader in the school. And provide them w opportunities to lead. #LeadUpChat
A2 One of leaders' chief responsibilities is to build other leaders. Be purposeful with identifying leadership potential, engage team members on their strengths, facilitate opportunities where they share these with others, & support through continuous coaching #leadupchat
A1: we need to stop teaching subjects in isolation. Integrate, integrate, integrate! Life doesn’t happen in a box and learning shouldn’t be confined to one either. #leadupchat
Everyone is a leader on staff - everyone should be coached, have a voice in decision making, and have access to information to be their best and make an impact #LeadUpChat
And I think intuitively this is true in the #PBL academy I lead within my school, but it would be great to know that researched evidence supports this as well. #LeadUpChat
A1. When I think about the difference betweenthose who demonstrate academic or operational compliance vs. innovation I think of this:
Blockbuster vs Netflix
Netscape vs Google
Dell vs Apple
PowerPoint vs Prezi
Strategic advantage fortunes the innovative.
#Leadupchat
By trusting teachers and involving them in the decisions in the building. Teacher voice is powerful. When teachers feel honored and respected they are willing to lead. #LeadUpChat
A2: Build opportunities for peer collaboration that allow leaders to emerge. In the process, they learn that they have valuable ideas to share that build capacity in others. This goes for teachers and for students. #leadupchat
For me, Astin’s social change model is salient; how do we help Ts be more Conscious of themselves, be more congruent in the practice to their identities, and encourage them to commit? #leadupchat
Exactly!! I so believe in the ability of our collaborative mindsets--Hattie details the strategies that yield the largest impact, but emphasizes that teacher MINDSET yields the greatest impact. #leadupchat
In reply to
@drneilgupta, @PeterMDeWitt, @PrincipalPaul
A2: Leaders must try to build capacity in teachers and staff by trusting them. Build their decisional capital and allow them freedom to handle situations how they see fit to do so #LeadUpChat
A2: Trust in the capacity of others to take on some of the work. Prvide tools and support, then actually LET GO unless you see a real problem - not just something you would do differently. This may require a paper bag. #leadupchat
So well said. I often wonder if there are ways to shift credibility and momentum to knowledge based as opposed to seniority and majority opinions. #leadupchat
A2: good leaders inspire, dream, learn and encourage that in others so they can do the same for themselves and those around them. #LeadupChat#LoveLiteracyLearning
Everyone needs to have opportunities to lead and follow. Top down is not helpful except maybe in a crisis. Shared leadership builds confidence and ownership. #LeadUpChat
A2 It has taken me a while to figure this out, but I now realize that I do not have to do everything. I just need to step back and make it possible for others to lead. They can often make progress were I can't. #leadupchat
A2: we have a leadership team at our school. All teachers are welcome! If the only leaders at your school are the principal and the administrator, something is wrong. #leadupchat
A2 One of our schools empowered the school librarian to run inset day for teachers. The result - the school librarian is seen as an expert that can support teaching and learning and teachers get access to good resources and collaborate with the school library more. #leadupchat
A2: Answer with a Question:
Are schools one dimensional? Is the school experience (for teachers and students) one dimensional? What kind of learning experiences are we striving to create? #leadupchat
A2: By recognizing “leadership” does not equal only administration. Build a leader-leader culture, where every single person in the building (admin, teacher, student, IA, etc.) are viewed and treated as a leader in the school. And provide them w opportunities to lead. #LeadUpChat
I am not sure what you mean. Our substitute teachers do a fantastic job but often do not have opportunities to impact goals we have as a staff. #leadupchat
A2: By giving the teachers a voice in the school building, and even the district, decisions!! Making decisions without T's input is not what is in the best interest of the Ss. Give us credit for having the skills and knowledge of what's best for our kids. #leadupchat
A2: I really like this question! Know what's interesting? More than the answer, the people that come to mind upon reading this question. I even thought: "How would ________ answer? I'm searching those leaders right now, and I'm going to do what they do. #LeadUpChat
A1 We need to shift our focus to good tier one instruction, not intervention. Most have historical data that our hardest standards are where we intervene each cycle. Reactive to proactive. #LeadUpChat
A2. By understanding that everyone has unique talents & providing others with opportunities to lead projects or other activities is a win win situation. In fact, post opportunities in the school for Ts to choose. Also directly asking as well. #LeadUpChat
Most organizations, leaders love mantra’s like “think different” until people do…
Encourage different thinking.
Questions over Answers
Collaboration over Competition
Creativity over Compliance
Innovation over Implementation
Best Idea over Whose Idea
#leadupchat
Right, Brad. Like the note on incorporating leadership space. Connects to the practice of encouraging other potential leaders, which facilitates exponential growth on the team #leadupchat
A2. Developing and building the capacity in others requires an investment in them. Just as we ask teachers to “know their students” must also “know our teammates”. Help them find/exploit their strengths & strategize around how to address their growth opportunities. #Leadupchat
A2) ask yourself... do we have a process, a leadership pipeline for developing leaders? If it's haphazard in building capacity in others and may not be happening at all. It can be both an organic and systematic process. #LeadUpChat
A2: Planting the seeds to grow T leaders! Building on the strengths and interests of our Ts and providing opportunities to lead PD, committees, and book studies grows the capacity of the school. #LeadUpChat
A2: Leaders must try to build capacity in teachers and staff by trusting them. Build their decisional capital and allow them freedom to handle situations how they see fit to do so #LeadUpChat
A2: First, we see the good. Then, we see the need. We differentiate our coaching in a way that magnifies strengths while mitigating weaknesses. @RLGMike taught me to coach to the artisan's strengths. #leadupchat
A2: IMO, The first thing to multiply leaders, is help them identify their strengths & areas to improve upon. 2. Help them determine their “Why” 3. Invest time into their life in order to challenge or stretch them into a leadership role. #LeadUpChat#watsonunplugged#education
A3: need a systemic approach and nothing can be done in a vacuum. Shared decisions and systems. This will build culture and norms that will outlast everyone in the building. #leadupchat
A2: Look at Talent Development. We multiply leadership in others by allowing them to develop their strengths, interests & values. We honor what ignites fire in their belly. Mentor, stand side by side, support & provide opportunity. #LeadUpChat
Key practice, Kyle. Referencing the guidance that we receive from other keynote leaders helps us as we guide on our teams on the path to success #leadupchat
A1) We need to stop micromanaging teachers' actions and engage teachers in solution-finding for their students ... tap into the passion that they have for their craft and empower them as we want them to empower their students. #leadupchat
Oh for sure if in on long term assignment! Everyone is an important part of our team. My experience is often our substitute teachers are not in it for growth in the same way as our other teachers. #leadupchat
And for the non-compliant, sometimes I think we overlook empowering them w/the idea they can self-regulate response to feelings & feelings themselves...such that they can be *productively* creative. #leadupchat
A2: #leadupchat Recognize & nurture others' strengths, provide opportunities for them to add their unique value to the discourse, ask questions that help them see that they can solve the problem, don't be threatened by the talents others bring, Shared vision = shared the work.
A3. Reading #Culturize by @casas_jimmy and then sharing, talking, and communicating as a staff about the concepts in order to plan for the future. #LeadUpChat
A3: Make the learning environment a place of safety, security, love, and learning! Help Ss feel like a part of the school community. Be responsive to their needs. Let the Ss have a voice. Set clear boundaries and expectations so they understand the expectations. #leadupchat
A3 Every decision and every interaction builds school culture. So every day requires us to bring our best to lead up and lift up. We have to tend it like a garden. It needs our constant attention. #LeadUpChat
A2. As a leader, I am constantly assessing the potential of those I serve and figuring out ways to provide opportunities for and help them reach their highest potential. When you see something in someone, you have a responsibility as a leader to develop them. #Leadupchat
A3: By identifying the values and communicating them. While external pressures may occur, values that are shared should stay intact if they are known by the community. #leadupchat
Too often we are focused on the newest program or initiative, constantly swinging the pendulum to the next “best” thing…
Instead, focus the mindset on continuous learning and improvement.
Then, create an environment of trust and psychological safety.
#leadupchat
A2) Focus on these "superskills of leadership" ... build them in yourself and those you lead ... realize that you are not a leader until you set up others to carry on the work beyond you #leadupchat
This is how Algebra 2 should look under CCSS modeling standards; but instead, A2 is the class most likely to cause Ss to drop out bc we are not doing that. #leadupchat
A2: We raise up leaders through empowerment! Teachers become leaders when they have a growth mindset (which is modeled for them) and their strengths are recognized and utilized for the benefit of the school. #leadupchat
Agreed! Teachers need to be able to have the ability to put themselves into their teaching but certain things need to be done across the curriculum. Information literacy for example.. #leadupchat
Truth spoken here! I love the work that is being done by @HSG_UT to build teacher leaders. Leadership takes many forms and does not require a formal title. We are ALL leaders of learning regardless of our title! #leadupchat
A2: By recognizing “leadership” does not equal only administration. Build a leader-leader culture, where every single person in the building (admin, teacher, student, IA, etc.) are viewed and treated as a leader in the school. And provide them w opportunities to lead. #LeadUpChat
In chewing on this, a lot of it comes down to how do we create an environment that makes it ok for Ts to wrestle with cognitive dissonance? #leadupchat
A3: Creating a culture that encourages grit, growth mindset, positivity, innovation, inspiration, taking risks, motivation and reflection. Everyone involved needs to understand & be willing to achieve the goals set for the building, Ts & Ss. #LeadUpChat#LoveLiteracyLearning
A3 - Realize that every interaction builds or dismantles the culture. Be intentional about building. Spring is hard on the morale of Ts. How can we build them up right now? #leadupchat
A3 Taking time to listen and understand perspectives. Students need feel like their voices are heard and considered in the building and maintaining school culture. #leadupchat
A3: A vision will only endure if it connects to people's heart and mind. People have to believe in it. Therefore, we need to ask and engage staff when crafting our culture.
#LeadUpChat
A3: Start by realizing “Culture” contains multiple dimensions. There is the organizational part, the technical part, the relational part & the adaptive part. These are cemented by a series of 1,000’s of small acts & behaviors over time. Culture is NOT a static thing. #LeadUpChat
A3. You have to make sure that all stakeholders are a part of the culture development process. This increases the chance they actually believe it. Once that happens, it is passed on from teacher to new teacher, teacher to student, Ss to new Ss. #LeadUpChat
A3: We used our learning for both students and teachers. For example, when we taught kids to “Speak with good purpose” that was messaged on announcements AND it was also messaged on my weekly newsletter as a reflection for staff. We also walked the talk every day...#LeadUpChat
A3: I think there are universals must haves. Kindness, Respect, Joyful Learning. If we work with those in mind I don't think there is anyone that would be left out of the discussion. #leadupchat
To build school culture, let’s start by being the answer to these five questions every student (and teacher) is asking. https://t.co/xYeH6AIVLV#LeadUpChat
A3: A vision will only endure if it connects to people's heart and mind. People have to believe in it. Therefore, we need to ask and engage staff when crafting our culture.
#LeadUpChat
A3: One way we can enrich school culture is by having a designated buddy reading time with a different grade. My 2nd grade class has Kinder buddies once a week and I like every seeing how it establishes lasting relationships. #LeadUpChat
A3: An effective family is complex enough to recognize and celebrate individual differences, yet simple enough to execute its mission with clear expectations. #leadupchat
A3. I believe regardless of what changes may occurs in our world and in our profession, there are some enduring principles we can focus on to help us build a lasting and sustainable culture. It’s in my new book: 👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾#Leadupchat
A3 It's essential that leaders are intentional with identifying team members who share similar values and commitments to supporting all Ss. Also identifying potential team members who share like-minded approaches is key. Helps build & sustain a purposeful culture #leadupchat
A3. If you haven't read "Leading in a Culture of Change" by Fullan - please add it to your summer list. We are all leaders and understanding the process helps! #LeadUpChat
A3) As Simon Sinek would say ... find your why! Ours is "partnering with schools to position students to change the world" ... everything we do emanates from that. #leadupchathttps://t.co/M57zIIqUx8
A3: model authentic and purposeful interactions for SS and Ts while holding high expectations. Culture is not a 1 person job though, shared responsibility. #leadupchat
A3: we are one year into our new vision. We brought in a dozen students to give feedback after one year on what next steps should be, and two parent focus groups and phone call surveys to parents to ensure representation, and from staff! This will be done yearly #LeadUpChat
A3 Finding the right mix for your leadership team who can get Ts & Ss discussing reacting and displaying what is needed then offering ideas on how to improve it #LeadUpChat
A3: Start by realizing “Culture” contains multiple dimensions. There is the organizational part, the technical part, the relational part & the adaptive part. These are cemented by a series of 1,000’s of small acts & behaviors over time. Culture is NOT a static thing. #LeadUpChat
A3: An enduring school culture is based around a shared WHY. When all teachers, administrators, students, and parents believe it, support it, live it, that’s when you see your school culture carry on—even outside of the building. #TMGenius#leadupchat
In my thinking, admins hold the keys. When they observe and share strengths that lie in the next room, that's inspiration for the rest of us to observe. Just seeing photos of activities is not the same thing. #leadupchat
Yo!! Culture is best co-created.
WE-ness creates culture. WE-ness means we ALL are FOUNDERS of CULTURE: How we care for each other. How we grind together. How we struggle and emerge together.
I am because WE ARE. #UbuntuCulture#leadupchat
I strongly believe YOU hold the key! Each and every teacher can make a world of difference. 26 years of being an admin taught me this very well. #LeadUpChat
In reply to
@LaneWalker2, @PrincipalSmart, @diane_mackinnon
A3: Creating the culture must include voice and feedback from Ts, Ss, and families. Clear and purposeful action steps aligned to shared goals keeps the focus on the shared vision. #Leadupchat
You can't manufacture community and culture.
It is created through value; when people feel valued for who they are, what they do, and how they add…
#leadupchat
Tim, this is important for everyone to hear. I think we can all do better including our subs as part of the school. They are an essential element to every successful school year. #leadupchat
A4 Know and understand the skill set of all your staff. If you are not the best person to do it ask someone else. Empowerment of others is great leadership! #leadupchat
A3. Enduring culture starts with shared vision and shared responsibility. We should ask ourselves, ” If our leader leaves will our culture endure?” If the answer is yes.... We’ve succeeded. Collective efficacy and shared leadership are key. #LeadUpChat
A3: A school culture that endures is one that defines learning as a journey for all members, Ss and Ts alike-where the process is exalted more than the product and where all no matter where they are on their own trajectory are encouraged and supported to move forward. #leadupchat
A4: Prioritize. There is only one of us so STOP WASTING TIME. Focus on meaningful work, cut out the crap. You would be surprised how much time you have when you stop teaching from a booklet and start focusing on what counts #leadupchat@DrMaryHoward ;)
A3 #leadupchat Goals change as they are accomplished. Staff and students come and go. However, the core values and belief system of a school community should be so well known and nutured that it draws people to the school. The school culture should be grounded in unification.
A4 As leaders we must be strategic with prioritizing our time. We must protect the seconds, minutes, & hours in the day to focus on those activities that have the greatest impact on Ss success. Requires saying no to some things and even some people #leadupchat
Q4) Clone yourself! Technology can help. Create videos of your important culture & why messages; make your beliefs known that way; work with teachers to design a "Great School Rubric" that allows all to see the vision and goals; and empower others! #leadupchat
I agree there should be some choice. When Ts understand where ed is headed & why, they can make powerful decisions. If ts are overwhelmed, w/unrestricted choice they may choose whatever sounds the least taxing. #leadupchat
A4. Dear Leaders, Please take care of yourselves. We can’t clone you and we need you fully charged. Love, Your Staff, Students, and Families #LeadUpChat
A4: Oh the thought of two of me...how happy @kim_laughlin would be.Sticking to your why is what’s important when it comes to managing your time. Remembering your goal will highlight what needs to be done to get there. Having a strong team to help & support also helps! #leadupchat
A3.2: Knowing that culture, like any grand architecture, doesn't begin with the foundation (vision, mission, goals)...it's begins with a survey of the property.
#leadupchat
A3. I believe regardless of what changes may occurs in our world and in our profession, there are some enduring principles we can focus on to help us build a lasting and sustainable culture. It’s in my new book: 👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾#Leadupchat
A4 By not trusting someone else to accomplish a task. We have to believe in others so then we can be focused on the situation occurring instead of just being prsent. #LeadUpChat
I think I need you to sub at my school. I often feel like our subs just want a plan that points direction and do not really want to dig into extras with the exception of helping with coaching at times. #leadupchat
A4 Guilty! Interruptions are expected but when multiple issues occur at the same time, it can lead to that comment! I try to schedule items that are important as it keeps it in the forefront. Might not get to it when planned but it becomes a priority. #LeadUpChat
We often create organizational frustration in 2 ways:
We provide people autonomy without giving them the capacity, or provide the capacity without giving them autonomy.
Building up effective leadership across an the organization requires both.
#leadupchat
A4 - Always be building your dream school. The one where people work creatively to build beauty, love, joy, and knowledge in kids and others. Find your strength in this and press into it. #leadupchat
A4: in many regards I took on way too much this year - and not enough at the same time. I need to get better at delegating and building up my team #LeadUpChat
A4: Work hard, play harder! Be intentional about building relationships and put time in “playing” with you kids and then teaching them will be much more efficient, saving you time and headaches. #LeadUpChat
A4 Efficiency is NOT equal to effectiveness. We need to pour energy into effective practices that lead to growth instead of efficient practices that give the illusion of success. #LeadUpChat
A4: Valerie Instructional Coach from FL sneaking in #LeadUpChat! I find myself thinking this during the last few weeks of school. So much to do! So little time! BUT...I know it has to get done so I just do it! R & R on the weekends! Rest and Recovery!
A4: I employ the principals of Getting Things Done by David Allen to help manage my workflow. Keeps me focused. Often our overworked-ness is due to lack of organization/priority. #GTD#leadupchathttps://t.co/fUeWaf3sle
A4. How about ... "I don't have time to continue to share with others on Twitter because I am retired now?" HOGWASH! I make time as education is my passion and it doesn't simply end with walking out the door of the school. #LeadUpChat
A4. The key is to focus on quality instead of quantity. Don’t confuse being busy or completing lots of tasks with being productive or doing good work. FOCUS and SIMPLIFY. Do what you do well before trying to do it all. #leadupchat
A4 Just lately I wonder if I spend too much time worrying about staff reactions and need to spend more time building on strengths and letting natural leaders lead. #winwin#leadupchat
A4: Work hard, play harder! Be intentional about building relationships and put time in “playing” with you kids and then teaching them will be much more efficient, saving you time and headaches. #LeadUpChat
A3-Hattie tells us the greatest barrier to student learning is variation in teacher effectiveness and the solution is to build collaborative expertise in our teachers / teams #leadupchat
A4: As professionals we think we can do it all on our own. We can’t. But we can as a team! Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a sign that you know your team has your back and you trust them. #LeadUpChat
A4 #leadupchat There will always be fires to put out. Know the priorities. There are things leaders can delegate and things they should not. There is no limit to the value your positive presence adds to the school culture. Be visible. Make that a priority. Forge relationships.
A4) It is getting increasingly difficult to deal with the growing number of urgent situations, that keep us from what’s important. Some things cannot be ignored in the moment. It’s not a problem or not delegating or prioritizeming, it’s a true lack of resources. #LeadUpChat
Totally agree about keeping some key current priories. I work best when before the day begins I identify 3 or 4 key things which if done, will make the day a success! #leadupchat
A4: As professionals we think we can do it all on our own. We can’t. But we can as a team! Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a sign that you know your team has your back and you trust them. #LeadUpChat
It is more of a question of hegemonic power, deconstructing levers of oppression, and creating healing structures of liberation. We are born curious, courageous and whole and worthy and I'm fascinated by how to help people realize it #leadupchat
A4: Instead see it as “more of us.” Many leaders, consciously or not, get stuck in the trap that only we can do it - which is code for ‘it is supposed to be A way (our way).’ Eliminate “Me, My & Mine” from vocalb unless “My bad, Fault is mine, or please Forgive me.” #LeadUpChat
A4 - Always be building your dream school. The one where people work creatively to build beauty, love, joy, and knowledge in kids and others. Find your strength in this and press into it. #leadupchat
A4. By being purposeful. Prioritize & plan our daily & weekly activities. I use to have a 3 category chart: directly impacts kids, indirectly impacts kids, no impact. I tried to have more actions in the 1st category. #LeadUpChat
A4: By reviewing our responsibilities and prioritizing what is essential, leaders (and people in general) can go more into depth on what is essential creating a far superior outcome #LeadUpChat
If you define success as politeness, worry about staff reactions. If you have other metrics, let staff manage their emotions with your support. Ts are adults & need to build capacity with their emotions. It’s both/and for sure, but we need to focus on metrics #LeadUpChat
A4) It is getting increasingly difficult to deal with the growing number of urgent situations, that keep us from what’s important. Some things cannot be ignored in the moment. It’s not a problem or not delegating or prioritizeming, it’s a true lack of resources. #LeadUpChat
A4: I try to schedule everything I do. Walkthroughs, Office time, etc all goes in my calendar. The same thing is done at home too. @GoogleKeep is a big help also. #leadupchat
I followed this flowchart and would argue there are some things, that take a significant amount of time, you cannot delegate or defer when you have under resourced special programs in your school. #leadupchat
A4: Remember "Mutiplicity" with Michael Keaton? Over time, the version of himself diminished in capacity. Instead, find others who's "first version" is equipped to take on a task better than the second or third version of you. Know your staff, know their strengths. #leadupchat
A4 Just lately I wonder if I spend too much time worrying about staff reactions and need to spend more time building on strengths and letting natural leaders lead. #winwin#leadupchat
A5: Carefully. Too much pushes away Ss "You are trying to hard" has been used with me before. I think we try to work in their interests but we don't step on them. Write about Fortnite in an inform and explain vs Spend weeks on a Fortnite unit. WHatever that would be. #leadupchat
A5 We need to acknowledge and accept where kids are spending time and not be afraid to accept that into our learning environments. We cannot understand what we continue to be afraid of or run from. #leadupchat
A4: I have heard this statement by teachers & administrators alike. As I observe practices, I have noted that the problem isn't necessarily not having enough time. It is not being intentional with the time. So much time wasted... #leadupchat
Whether 5 or 55, we all want to do work that is relevant and intrinsically motivating.
Relevance is often the point where engagement begins…
Are we constantly and consistently considering the relevance of what we are doing?
#leadupchat
One of the reasons I like lurking in spaces like #leadupchat is because I can find dynamic leaders from whom to learn, grow, and #becomebetter. Hats off to the creators, co-leaders, and weekly moderators.
A5 Bring Learning to life! Opportunities for Ss voice lets them know they matter. Build excitement for learning by creating opportunities for choice to help build their passion too. #leadupchat
A5: Develop a strong home-school connection. We’re all family. Communication should be open and consistent throughout the year, doors should be open for family members, parents and teachers@should work as a team to provide what’s best for the child. #LeadUpChat
A4: Remember "Mutiplicity" with Michael Keaton? Over time, the version of himself diminished in capacity. Instead, find others who's "first version" is equipped to take on a task better than the second or third version of you. Know your staff, know their strengths. #leadupchat
If you can delegate the “what” and let go of the “how” you’ll be much better at success. There is more than one right way to get to the goal. #Leadupchat
Yes!!! Engagement, Empowerment, Efficacy -- it's the only way to go to prepare students to change the world! Shameless plug for my book #StudentsTaking Charge #LATIC Rocks! #leadupchat
A5: Student learning can be blended when an “outside” cooperative group can focus on a student choice project that is accountable to a rubric linked to the objectives of the lesson. #LeadUpChat
A4. We can’t operate well or be highly effective in a work environment where everything is urgent and important. We must prioritize & choose the highest leverage concepts to address. A guaranteed recipe for burn out is trying to do it all & seeing little results. #leadupchat
Q5) First and foremost, we need to make sure the things we are doing in school, are actually done outside of school. Too often we have a “school world” and a “real world.” It starts with transforming vision and curriculum. #leadupchat
A5: establish a relationship that shows Ss you care about them not only as a student but as a human being. Celebrate their academic, social, and emotional successes! Incorporate their outside of school interests in the classroom. #LeadupChat#LoveLiteracyLearning
Whether 5 or 55, we all want to do work that is relevant and intrinsically motivating.
Relevance is often the point where engagement begins…
Are we constantly and consistently considering the relevance of what we are doing?
#leadupchat
A5: A big piece of this is helping kids achieve a school/life balance. We must reconsider our HW policies and amounts given. As adults, we try to balance work and life so we must do the same for kids #leadupchat
A4...part 2: I recommend norms, agendas and protocols to ensure time is well spent. Multiple measures of data will help us determine priorities. Then focus on those priorities. Do fewer things better and be open to the tools that help us do those things better. #leadupchat
A3) Creating and maintaining culture is a full time job. It’s dynamic. People need to feel safe, respected and cared for. The HOW can look different with everyone. #LeadUpChat
A5.2: Allow students multiple ways to demonstrate their learning. A student’s passion for music can unlock their learning during a novel study, allowing them to express things you would never get through a book report. #leadupchat
A5: Our School name (acronym) is VIDA. That means “life” in Spanish & we are constantly on the hunt for how might school be more about our lives than JUST “school.” How do we weave the relevancy & opportunities of what happens in the walls with that outside the walls? #LeadUpChat
A5 Whatever it takes to cultivate curiosity. That’s the spark of learning. Kids are more curious when learning relates to the world they relate to. #LeadUpChat
A5-Relationship and confections with our students and their families is not a first week of school thing. We have to constantly work on these throughout the year. #leadupchat
A5 As team members plan & prepare lessons the "2nd R" of relevance must be incorporated. Ss should see the direct link to their lives & make the immediate connection. As we consider whole-school activities, we must make relevance a priority to show the benefit to Ss #leadupchat
A5: Morning meetings are a great way to bridge the gap. We start by bringing in family photos then displaying them all year. Purposefully learn about everyone’s family and culture throughout the year. Let the kids talk about themselves, not just once or twice a year #LeadUpChat
Right! So what arises for me is:
How might we create a rich ecosystem of DIFFERENT KINDS of SCHOOLS that serve to support the range of diverse human talents, strengths, and interests?
Why the obsession with sameness?
#leadupchat
Dont you think that schools have made teachers believe they are one dimensional? Teach your subject, make sure the Ss know the content to pass the test.
The other responsibilities given are minutiae, not impactful in any way to the school....
A5: Involve students in decisions about what goes on in school by asking them what they thrill. We used student panels so that teachers and principals got to hear first hand what kids thought about their experience in school. It was eye opening and fun! #LeadUpChat
A5: remembering that as schools we are a part of a larger community and not only our own. We need to build connections and let SS help with it! #leadupchat
A5: Our School name (acronym) is VIDA. That means “life” in Spanish & we are constantly on the hunt for how might school be more about our lives than JUST “school.” How do we weave the relevancy & opportunities of what happens in the walls with that outside the walls? #LeadUpChat
There she is! Hey, @marcihouseman, you made my day. Thank you for your kind words. Hope all is well with you. Hope you get to relax and recharge this weekend. #leadupchat
Right! So what arises for me is:
How might we create a rich ecosystem of DIFFERENT KINDS of SCHOOLS that serve to support the range of diverse human talents, strengths, and interests?
Why the obsession with sameness?
#leadupchat
Dont you think that schools have made teachers believe they are one dimensional? Teach your subject, make sure the Ss know the content to pass the test.
The other responsibilities given are minutiae, not impactful in any way to the school....
A5. We must make sure learning is relevant to the real world, has a significant degree of real world application, models what students will need to know and be able to do...in the real world. We need to align our teaching and their learning to their futures! #LeadUpChat
A5: We must first have an inkling of their outside life. It becomes more challenging as they get older and learn to "hide" the parts of their lives they don't believe match the cultrual norm or expectation. And those are the Ss who need us to validate them the most. #leadupchat
Because I think we would feel guilty if we started digging into the differences. Easier to look at success monolithically - if I dig in, I’ll see how our culture and school isn’t serving some Ts and some Ss well. Sameness is safe. No risk. #Leadupchat
A3: There must be clear culture values/behavioral based language created collaboratively, combined w/ a consistent language of how to lead & influence. Posters/slogans are insufficient! Involves soft/life skill training per school for all. No avoiding this process. #leadupchat
A5: I am so so so tired of listening to Ss talk about Fortnite. And draw about it. And sculpt about it. And paint about it. But if it makes their artwork more meaningful to them, then I can deal with it. #LeadUpChat
Also, how we define “real world” tends to center around OUR real world. The real world for some of our students is VERY different. Who is centered here means EVERYTHING #Leadupchat
A5: Involve students by asking them what they think. We use student panels so that teachers and principals can hear first hand what kids think about their experience in school. It is eye opening and fun! #LeadUpChat
So true. I'm starting off w/a family meeting before school to explain a shift that needs to be made with HS math homework. Then I will be explaining support tips along the way. Ps are a hugely imp part of the learning team. #leadupchat
A5: I think the real truth here is that kids DO live two separate lives. One at school and one at home. That's not a bad thing but educators/leaders should recognize that both are real, both are important, and they effect each other greatly! #leadupchat
A5: Involve parents and community as much as possible! Sometimes we forget the power of “WE.” Their reality is lost at times amidst our agendas. ❤️ #LeadUpChat
A5. Makers paces bring in the real world to school. Ts need support form leadership to explore this practice without fear of evaluation. We love to coach this #makerhappen. #LeadUpChathttps://t.co/5IwKWQurRQ
I’ve been distracted by my own little monkeys this am. Later I’ll go back and reread all of these innovative responses. Thanks for the chat! Happy early Mother’s Day to all of you multitasking mamas. #LeadUpChat
A5: Bring their lives into the classroom by giving value to their passions and wonders. Allow these to guide our instruction. Knowing our students is key. #leadupchat
A5 We are moving all teachers and students to digital portfolios as of next fall. We want to make sure they are a learning porfolio both inside and outside of school. Students need to feel like their own interests and passions belong there. #leadupchat
A6. I need to increase asking others in our amazing #BookCampPD#PLN for suggestions/ideas. The resource is there https://t.co/pW0vEqxukZ for them to use - I need to highlight it and purposefully seek out greater input. How do you daily seek out input? #LeadUpChat
Hi Kyle! Yes, if the rain holds off I will be working in the the yard which I think is a great way to recharge. :) And...my blog post is coming! #leadupchat
A5: Just being there to listen when students share about their lives makes for stronger relationships. They are interested in our lives too. #LeadUpChat
A5: Involve parents and community as much as possible! Sometimes we forget the power of “WE.” Their reality is lost at times amidst our agendas. ❤️ #LeadUpChat
Surround yourself with people who can make your job easier. Build a school-wide community that will buy in to your district vision and allow them to carry some of the weight of the leadership responsibilities. #LeadUpChat
Excellent! No doubt they will be better prepared for the "real world" that way -- actively pursuing adding value to others rather than simply doing what they are told. #LeadUpChat
I agree. I read a quote recently that said something to the effect of "Saying no to something is saying yes to something more important." We must prioritize. And our priorities must reflect our vision for improving teaching and learning. #leadupchat
A5/6: I feel a strong need to honor the voices of practitioners & students as we are designing learning experiences. I believe we could greatly benefit from students informing us of how relevant they perceive their learning to be. Both need a seat at the policy table #LeadUpChat
A6: Strengthening the lines of communication, in BOTH (all?) directions. Focusing on supporting change that leads to positive outcomes for our students. #leadupchat
A3: Many don't believe this human capital "investment" is not needed or too costly. Wrong on both counts. Schools (or really any organization) that does this form of leadership life skills training (every role is a leader) see the results in cohesion and performance. #leadupchat
A6. As a leader you have goals. Do those around you - teachers, parents, para professionals - have a way to share their thoughts each day? If we value others we seek out their thoughts for improvement. @bethhill2829 certainly understands the importance of this. #LeadUpChat
A6:
1) Sharing my positivity with others
2) Encouraging the idea that when we collaborate with each other we become more effective
#LeadUpChat#LoveLiteracyLearning
Q6. 🙋🏾♀️🙋🏼♂️➡️coach⬅️ want to multiply leadership? Partner with a coach.. Grow coaching skills and a culture of coaching on your campus #educoach#r13coaches#LeadUpChat
A5: instead of asking kids to solve artificial problems we create ask them to be “problem finders” so they can find real world problems they want to solve... #LeadUpChat
A4 taking time to smell the roses always sounds good on screen but not so easily done / but .. using choice theory help as a frame .. we sometimes choose work, choose to not say no, think we have to do it .. my camera gives me breaks from work #LeadUpChat
If I have to issue a detention for something, then I always try to sign that S out of the detention room, take them to mine to help w/math. Powerful moments there. #leadupchat
See, I want the opposite approach. I want to surround myself with people who will challenge me, and make it harder for me. Cognitive dissonance is where innovation occurs. For me, easy = complacency #Leadupchat
It's happening already Chris. See https://t.co/mRNlbGKIdn network or New School Creation initiatives or @Getting_Smart chronicles of innovative schools. The work is happening. It's not about dollars or permission. It's about imagination, courage, & local communities #leadupchat
Love the idea! Think it is perfect! Curious though, how do we accomplish this when most schools rely upon state funds? The state isn’t going to support “Different Kinds” of schools are they?
I agree. When things take more time, they become projects (to the left on the chart), which are broken down into actionable steps. The projects are then worked on one step at a time until they are finished. This chart of course works for some but not all situations. #leadupchat
That's well-said right there, blogging accountability partner Marci. I love doing yard work. I'm also working on another blog right now. It's about my (learning value) challenges with #ARVRinEdu. I think you'll like it. What's your next blog topic? #leadupchat
