Welcome to #MEMSPAchat - STARTING NOW! Come aboard and join the collaboration of leading and learning!
I am moderating tonight's chat - @MrDomagalski
- Middle School Principal for the @ECSDSchools
Please intro yourself...
There may be a few shameless plugs tonight about #MCAUL18 and the Pre-Con presented by the @sigad_macul. We are putting together some sweet giveaways as well. DM me if you have any questions. #MEMSPAchat
BAM! QUESTION 1 just posted by @MrDomagalski on #MEMSPAchat
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A1. As a teacher, I arrived daily to make a positive difference in my students’ lives. As a principal and leader, I have the same mindset. Being a leader in education means putting students first and providing conditions that maximize the positive difference we make. #memspachat
A1: Being a leader means bringing together all of the strengths of the team to achieve the greatest outcome. Listening, knowing, reflecting, collaborating, and doing are action verbs of a leader. #MEMSPAchat
A1: A person that allows you and supports you in taking risks. Will stand beside you and give you constructive feedback to help you grow. Also has the ability to take a moment and listen before casting judgement. Models when needed #MEMSPAchat
A1 First thought which came to mind was "serving others". Having a vision, building shared ownership, supporting others in meeting achieving vision. Staying grounded and strong in the face of challenge. Continuing to grow, learn and laugh. #MEMSPAchat
A1: That is a great question. To inspire others to be better and to work towards a common belief. Leaders are humble, compassionate, honorable, have integrity, and educational leaders believe in the success and understanding of ALL students! #MEMSPAchat
A1: Being a leader = lifting others up and encouraging them to be the best they can be
+ focusing on what kids need and deserve + being brave enough to do the work. #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A1: Service - Change Agent - As a leader, I strive to serve others in a way that models continuous growth, teamwork, excellence, and belonging. #memspachat#bctlt
A1: My fallback is always Tom Izzo's quote. A good player is a good player. A great player makes others great! My adaptation: A good leader is a good leader. A great leader makes others great! #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A1: To me, being a leader means being blessed with the responsibility to inspire a vision, grow other leaders and the opportunity to learn from stakeholders. Sometimes people don't see their leadership until you help them discover it! #MEMSPAchat
A1: Being a leader means to build relational trust by showing own vulnerabilities, which allows others to take risks in their own learning and growth. #MEMSPAchat
Being a leader means being an explorer, a general, and a cheerleader at the same time. It requires modeling, initiative, motivation and motivating, and a lot of passionate heart. A1 #memspachat
As a new leader I'm still working out what it means to me... At this point, I think it's paving the way for others to be successful, to be selfless and to model behaviors and beliefs that will improve the climate and the culture for Ss. #MEMSPAchat
A1: Being a leader is inspiring and supporting staff to be amazing for kids. It’s bringing the passion and energy every day so adults and kids alike are excited to come back tomorrow. It’s modeling and encouraging risk taking, making mistakes, being kind and loving. #MEMSPAchat
A1: Being a leader means building relationships, focusing on needs of students, and supporting staff through listening and providing constructive feedback to achieve common goals. #MEMSPAchat
A2: I believe coaching cycles are making a great difference at the individual teacher level. Using the Data Team process has helped us all be more intentional about our work and serving students. #memspachat
A1. Being a leader is about hiring the best people for kids and building them up to be leaders. Building human capacity builds the organization to better serve kids. #MEMSPAchat
A2: #EdCampDownriver was a huge success. I try to incorporate a learning model in every staff meeting. Not just meeting to meet. Last month, I did a @breakoutEDU activity with them. Something they could take back and infuse into one of their lessons. #MEMSPAchat
A2: learning labs for embedded PD, book studies, encouraging them to connect through professional groups right now excited for upcoming MACUL conference in GR #MEMSPAchat
A2. We have seen success with a “No Opt Out” policy, meaning students do not have the option of completing work. Students must stay before school, after school, etc to complete missing work. Parents appreciate this. #memspachat
A2: Trusting others to lead, facilitate and teach by providing the skills, strategies and confidence to plan and implement professsional learning were my best predictors of ownership by all stakeholders! #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A2: Continuing to focus on the "why" behind the importance of assessment. Making sure Ts are collecting evidence of S learning before the next lesson. The data needs to drive instruction and Ts need to "pause" before moving on. #MEMSPAchat
A2: Literacy coaching cycles, weekly collaborative planning sessions and opportunities for teachers to observe each other are having a positive impact in our building. #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A2: We have dove into CER (Claim, Evidence, Reasoning) as a building-wide writing focus -- Literacy Leadership Team. Student Focus Teams - 2 at each grade. These are just a couple that we feel are going really well this year!
#MEMSPAchat
A1: There’s just so much to being a leader and not enough characters to articulate it, but I want to add that being a leader is the most humbling and rewarding job ever! #MEMSPAchat
A1: In terms of PD, our staff seems to be really enjoying the Google Apps PD that has been offered. Our staff all received Chromebooks this year & we are seeing the impact of the new technology in the different ways tech is being integrated. #memspachat#GoogleClassroom
A2: This year (year 1) is all about building relationships, being visible, and creating a collaboration and commitment to change mindset. Structures to be built on that foundation #MEMSPAchat
A2: We try and give choice whenever possible. We have also brought in consultants and use our own staff members to lead follow up PD. Providing time for teachers to collaborate outside of planning time. #MEMSPAchat
Q2 In our county leadership meetings & in staff meetings, providing time for reflection, collaboration and sharing. As a staff we're reading Creating Cultures of Thinking. Has lead to powerful discussions about instructional practices. #MEMSPAchat
A2: Observing each other with a specific focus. Up to this point, teachers have been observing others in the building, next month - we head outside of our own district! #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A1: Being a leader means building relationships, focusing on needs of students, and supporting staff through listening and providing constructive feedback to achieve common goals. #MEMSPAchat
Very true. Biggest adjustment I have had to make from start of admin to now is realizing that a plan I make has to "move" someone emotionally. #MEMSPAchat
So true! I love to see the teacher leaders come out of their shells! You don’t have to be an administrator to be a leader, I believe there’s a leader in everyone just waiting to be discovered! #MEMSPAchat
Ernest Morrell and Karen Mapp will be joining many elementary principals on March 6 in Kalamazoo around family engagement and literacy. https://t.co/ogc3hlO0b6 A2 #MEMSPAchat
A:2 Moving a group to a team training by Mike @mikemattos65, Teach Like a Champion Weekly Best Practices and Strategies, Transforming Student Learning @cbdconsulting and Happiness Advantage @shawnachor#MEMSPAchat
A2: Our commitment to #plcatwork is so important to closing the gap at our school! Resources/expereiences from @SolutionTree@MEMSPA and local leaders have helped to shape the conversation. #MEMSPAchat
Professional collaborative sessions where teachers from various grades (and subjects, if possible) team up to brainstorm and develop solutions and strategies for a specific issue. A2 #memspachat
A2: MTSS Team introduced Collaborative Learning Cycle for looking at data and conversations have challenged thinking, Wildly Important Goal (WIG) to guide goal setting for grade level teams, & Studer survey results to create action plans #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9#TeamPortage
A2: We just started a book study (The Leader in Me) where all the discussion is virtual using platforms Ts could use with Ss; Google Forms, SeeSaw, Flipgrid, Padlet and Today's Meet. Collaboration and experience with new platforms. Win win! #MEMSPAchat
A3. Decision making is made in groups rather than in a silo. We meet and discuss what’s best for our students. We develop goals as a team and use a team approach in regards to how we meet our goals. #memspachat
A3: Teams meet weekly (SIT-RTI every other week) during common planning. I try and support needs but it's looking like they need more support. Going to start attending a third meeting a month not related to SIT based on feedback. #MEMSPAchat
A3: "Team" -- Leaders within, throughout, the building. As the building-leader, we have to support, challenge, encourage, and provide opportunities for others to lead and impact our Ss and school.
#collectiveresponsibility#MEMSPAchat
A3: Shared leadership amongst the members of the team. Everyone has a role and is invested. I support as needed and help them focus when they get off track. I am active member when needed. #MEMSPAchat
A3: Grade levels, family teams, content specific teams, etc. The importance is to stay informed, collaborate through dialogue and meetings with chairpersons to ensure that clear protocols, collaborative commitments, agendas, have been taught and are utilized. #MEMSPAchat
A3: Provide others to lead within the building; subcommittees. I sit in on the meetings but only interject when called upon. I like to watch the dynamics of the group when I am not overseeing the meeting. #MEMSPAchat
A3: Our school is blessed with an amazing team! We carefully consider the strengths/needs of each team member. My role is to ask good questions and figure out how to pave the runway so the staff/students can lift off and soar! #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A3: Grade level teams plan weekly as does our intervention/spec. ed specialists. Additionally, our student collaboration intervention team (SCIT) team meets quarterly with grade levels and all have voice in planning & decision making for our most at risk learners. #MEMSPAchat
A3: After the @MEMSPA conference in 2016, we became much more dedicated to the MTSS process. I am proud of our MTSS team's collaborative culture for supporting students. We have had some growing pains, but are emerging stronger because of our differences! #MEMSPAchat
A3: Our team approach at #TraverseHeights starts with an unwavering, focused support for students first. It takes a common vision and safely holding each other accountable. We have each other's backs and we walk the walk. #MEMSPAchat
Did you know #MEMSPAchat has a @voxer group? DM @MrDomagalski if you'd like to join...
We post questions all the time and collaborate. Just ask through DM.
A3: Our school is blessed with an amazing team! We carefully consider the strengths/needs of each team member. My role is to ask good questions and figure out how to pave the runway so the staff/students can lift off and soar! #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A3: Grade levels, family teams, content specific teams, etc. The importance is to stay informed, collaborate through dialogue and meetings with chairpersons to ensure that clear protocols, collaborative commitments, agendas, have been taught and are utilized. #MEMSPAchat
A3: Our PLC teams are strong. Recently, my 1-3 grades are meeting weekly on a targeted reading approach. I support them, stand back and encourage them to continue to lead. #MEMSPAchat
Q3: I am fortunate to serve in a school where teamwork is part of how we do business. Different teams gather daily. Everyone's goal is the same: Do all that we can with all that we have to serve students to the fullest. #memspachat
That sounds great, but I'm curious as to how you pulled it off. How do you get kids to come in before or after school if they just don't care? #MEMSPAchat
A3: At #EPCRocks it means we are "all in" for #sjschools kids. The collective commitment to our goals fuels us to collaborate toward vision and stay student focused. My role? Sounding board, resource provider, & cheerleader! #MEMSPAchat
Q3: We have two teams per grade level at our MS. Our counselors set up monthly meetings and admin make it a priority to attend to ensure we work as a team to address student needs, keep communication open, and support
Ts. #MEMSPAchat
A3: Our #TeamOwen staff are remarkable in the amount of time that they dedicate to meeting in departments or teams outside of professionally mandated time. Our school is better for the collaborative culture that they have built! #MEMSPAchat@Team__Owen
A3) Grade level teams, department teams, problem solving teams. As a leader, we should understand our role changes per the situation. We must be ready to facilitate, guide, or just participate. #memspachat
The Walk MS: St. Clair 2018 is changing lives for people living with MS. This is VERY important to me and my family & that's why I've set my goal at $1500. Please donate on my behalf today! CLICK HERE: https://t.co/16z9vGpoGJ#MEMSPAchat#mschat
A3: Team approach means asking for feedback and including grade level/department reps when making decisions that impact the school environment. Principal role is to create the structures for teams to thrive. Systems & processes are key #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A4-By keeping it productive and positive. By focusing on how can we move forward together, as a team, limit finger pointing... Find solutions, don't problem admire! #MEMSPAchat
A4: Bravely...assume positive intentions, LISTEN, try to understand the other person perspective, be flexible, ask "What do you need?" and "How can I support you?". Be willing to say/ask hard things. #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A4: Courageous leadership means knowing who you are, what you believe, and always acting in alignment with those values. In tough conversations, be clear about your purpose and concise in your language. #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A3: been working on a couple of things this year around the team approach. I like to think with this approach.
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#MEMSPAchat
A4: Patience, kindness, honesty, and hope. When you are patient enough to listen, kind in your conversation, honest with your message and offer hope for tomorrow, positive leadership naturally emerges in even the toughest situations. #MEMSPAchat
A3: Grade levels, family teams, content specific teams, etc. The importance is to stay informed, collaborate through dialogue and meetings with chairpersons to ensure that clear protocols, collaborative commitments, agendas, have been taught and are utilized. #MEMSPAchat
A4: Just be fair and consistent. Be sure to look at it from both sides and keep your mission in the forefront of the conversation. "I will always base by decision on what is best for kids." It sometimes isn't the mosts popular answer, but it works. #MEMSPAchat
A3: My main focus with various teams in the building is to encourage and empower Ts to be confident in their role and build capacity within the staff. My role is to support, as needed in their work #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A4: Tough conversations with parents or teachers are opportunities to find common ground - which is always finding a way to support a student. We all want the same thing, right? #MEMSPAchat
A4: Credibility and relational trust have been established. Our "why" for the conversation is clear and honest. We speak the truth with courage to ensure the safety of those we are charged to lead-our school, our staff, our students, our community. #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A4: My trick was always to sit next to the parent instead of across a desk & ask the question “What’s the best thing we can do for your child?” #MEMSPAchat
Q4: It is important to put yourself in the shoes of the person you are having the tough conversation with. Listen carefully. Know they are advocating for their needs and what they feel is best. #MEMSPAchat
A:4 The Golden Rule! During difficult conversations with staff, parents or even students, I place my self in their "shoes" and focus on how I would want to be treated in that situation. Simple but so powerful! #MEMSPAchat
A4: My trick was always to sit next to the parent instead of across a desk & ask the question “What’s the best thing we can do for your child?” #MEMSPAchat
A4: Always assume people want to do well, want their kids to do well, want better. Start with the positive, explain opportunities for growth, offer support in that area. Listen to what is needed. Listening more and better is a newer goal of mine. #MEMSPAchat
When we use Cultures of Thinking framework, it gives us all necessary language and protocols to conduct a productive conversation, starting with "What makes you say this?" My interview with Ron Ritchhart, the founder of the framework A4 https://t.co/pXsGLfVGIM#memspachat
A4 Seek first to understand is such a powerful mindset. Operating from a position of respect, using non-judgmental (or value-laden terms), and working to find a win-win solution. #MEMSPAchat
A3. Empathy, assuming positive intentions, help me frame tough conversations. Sometimes an element of being candid or vulnerable depending on context. #MEMSPAchat
A4: Focusing on "stages of concern" / CBAM model helps me craft the message so that it's progress oriented. Position / possibility - not personality! And, our good old SBI from is key! #MEMSPAchat
A4: I stay positive and use language that is not judgmental. I validate their perceptions and work towards a common understanding. I keep student learning and safety in the forefront. #MEMSPAchat
"Assume the best in everyone" - That is a hard lesson for so many in our educational community...children and adults. It is so much easier to see fault in others. 99.9% of the time, people don't come to school intending to cause problems for others. #MEMSPAchat
A4: Definitely listen...and listen some more. Often as leaders we feel the need to talk and explain ourselves. Let the parent or staff member speak and keep the tone positive. Remember students are the main priority 😊#memspachat
A4 - Empathy - Also the belief that they are doing the best that they know how whether they are the teacher or parent. Presuming positive intent also helps my mindset when going into tough conversations. #memspachat
A5: It's part of the job; I have gotten better at "putting out fires" and "fixing" problems and better about "the smartest person in the room is the room" mentality. We can do it better together. Sometimes it just takes a little longer. #MEMSPAchat
A5: when your working with that many people you have to help keep everyone informed, help them find common ground, help keep the vision and mission in the for front #MEMSPAchat
A4 Seek first to understand is such a powerful mindset. Operating from a position of respect, using non-judgmental (or value-laden terms), and working to find a win-win solution. #MEMSPAchat
A5: You have be the one to keep cool when things turn bad. Prefect example, we lost power for about an hour yesterday. I remained calm, reinforced that things were going to be Ok and that we were all SAFE. I tweeted it out to let parents know. #MEMSPAchat
This is SO Important! I don't know any parent or teacher who doesn't WANT to do their best! Often it's just about needing support or tools. #MEMSPAchat
A4: Always assume people want to do well, want their kids to do well, want better. Start with the positive, explain opportunities for growth, offer support in that area. Listen to what is needed. Listening more and better is a newer goal of mine. #MEMSPAchat
A5: On average, some researchers have said that a principal has 2000 interactions a day! 2000 opportunities to share our vision of leading and learning! Model the Way! Listen! Ask more questions! Assist others in solving their own problems! #memspachat#lmcohort9
A5: It's part of the job; I have gotten better at "putting out fires" and "fixing" problems and better about "the smartest person in the room is the room" mentality. We can do it better together. Sometimes it just takes a little longer. #MEMSPAchat
A5: I think we always need to put ourselves in the shoes of the teacher and remember how difficult a job it is before saying anything that isn’t constructive. #MEMSPAchat
A5: So many decisions that have to be made in a day. Not all of them are problems, but you must be able to know what type of decision needs to be made & the processes to go through. #BCTLT is learning from @artofcoaching1 The Art of Coaching Teams about this. #MEMSPAchat
A5: Trick question... We have to be careful to not always be the problem solver, if we do we may disempower others to lead. Need to support & guide, not fix. #MEMSPAchat
A5: Building leadership = 234,467 opportunities a day to make a difference with a smile on your face, a brave heart and a mind that is always focused on supporting students and staff. #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A4: I like to thank them for taking the time to talk with me about their concern, specifically acknowledge WHY we are talking, and then give them to state their concern. Listen first, speak second #MEMSPAchat
A5) A leader shouldn't get trapped into adoring the problem rather focus on finding the solution. Be sure to tap into the problem solvers in the building/district as well! #MEMSPAchat
A5: It is what we do on a daily basis. We keep things moving forward. It is also our job to encourage others to solve problems that arise, both students and staff. #MEMSPAchat
A5: I seriously LOL on this one! Correlate = embody! All stakeholders are looking to us for guidance and solutions . . . when really all we can offer is coaching and support. They are the experts! #MEMSPAchat
A5: Being ok with knowing opportunities (not problems) are part of the daily routine and to trust those you serve to help in the process of finding the best solutions #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A6: Perception data is valuable like surveys, polls, etc. Also just being visible and having more casual and real conversations can be just as powerful! #memspachat
A5: As a school leader, we're often the sounding board for other people's problems. Seeking their input for solutions to those problems is a must! #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A5: Trick question... We have to be careful to not always be the problem solver, if we do we may disempower others to lead. Need to support & guide, not fix. #MEMSPAchat
A6: Lunch with students/classes (I ask them), talking with staff (all about the relationships), community conversations w/ parents, annual surveys to parents/staff, & student data. #MEMSPAchat
A6: Talk to students, staff, and families. Feel confident to ask what needs improving. Review data. Walk the halls and just listen to the conversations. #MEMSPAchat
A5: I wake up every day with a plan for school, but every day is a new challenge. Problem solving is what we do and makes our profession both integral and rewarding #MEMSPAchat
A6: Ask others what they think about the school. Don't punish honest feedback. Take ownership of strengths & areas of growth. Involve others in developing ideas on how to improve. #MEMSPAchat
A6: Perception data is valuable like surveys, polls, etc. Also just being visible and having more casual and real conversations can be just as powerful! #memspachat
A6: Look at the data, don't make judgements or place blame. Own it. Explore causal theories, and collaboratively plan action steps with the team. A smart team can support each other through this work, and S.M.A.R.T. goals hold us accountable. #MEMSPAchat
A6: Staff, Student, Parent surveys have been helpful to get feedback. Held one on one meetings with staff this summer that provided valuable insight as well. #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9#teamportage
The needs of a school = needs of ALL in a school. We need a multitude of perspectives and their objective analysis. Ask each staff member to identify three main issues; do the same for PTA/PTO and engage Student Council (stuent voice). A6 #memspachat
A6: SIT’s and also it helps to have someone from the outside look at the data and assess a “big picture” view of what’s really working or not. #MEMSPAchat
A5. Excellent organizations are always asking what can we do better. That requires finding opportunities to grow. Identifying “problems”, framing them and finding a solution TOGETHER. #MEMSPAchat
Q7: How do you know when you need to make the ultimate decision to solve a problem or when to allow others the chime in to make these decisions? #MEMSPAchat
A6: Listening to students/staff/families, asking for feedback, reflecting on growth and encouraging collaborative brainstorming sessions helps us identify the needs in our school. #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A6: Discussions with students, families, and staff, analyzing data from perception surveys, observations, protocols to get a feel for the climate of the building, and discussions with our Principal Advisory Committee. #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A6: Look at the data, don't make judgements or place blame. Own it. Explore causal theories, and collaboratively plan action steps with the team. A smart team can support each other through this work, and S.M.A.R.T. goals hold us accountable. #MEMSPAchat
Shameless plugs of #macul18 ! I can't wait!! Haven't been in years. So thankful for #memspa partnership this year to make it possible to attend! #MEMSPAchat
A5. Excellent organizations are always asking what can we do better. That requires finding opportunities to grow. Identifying “problems”, framing them and finding a solution TOGETHER. #MEMSPAchat
A7. I often will seek the input if others to check what my guy is telling me. Trying to see both sides and understand is important, but I usually stick with my gut feeling...it's gotten me this far in life! #MEMSPAchat
A7: When I start at my new buildings, at the first staff meeting, I share this line and it has done wonders to empower the staff..."Don't come to me with a problem, come to me with a solution." I have watched Ts pace outside my office putting thoughts together #MEMSPAchat
Q7: How do you know when you need to make the ultimate decision to solve a problem or when to allow others the chime in to make these decisions? #MEMSPAchat
And this here is a fine line. Sometimes it is easier to solve all the problems, but the if we look at the big picture, empowering others to solve some of those problems will have greater returns #MEMSPAchat
A7: This is one of the hardest spaces to navigate as a leader. When do you solve. When do you guide and lead. When do you get out of the way. Many factors -- situation, problem, offered suggestions, time, impacte, etc..
#MEMSPAchat
Q7: How do you know when you need to make the ultimate decision to solve a problem or when to allow others the chime in to make these decisions? #MEMSPAchat
A7: When it can be collaborative, that's the way to go. If it can't or isn't in the best interests of the students/building, make it and hope staff will respect it. Make enough deposits, so the withdraw isn't so bad. #MEMSPAchat
Q7: How do you know when you need to make the ultimate decision to solve a problem or when to allow others the chime in to make these decisions? #MEMSPAchat
A7: When consensus can’t be reached you need to create a set of objective reasons to go in that direction. If you aren’t a “true believer” in that decision you will never make it happen. #MEMSPAchat
Q7: How do you know when you need to make the ultimate decision to solve a problem or when to allow others the chime in to make these decisions? #MEMSPAchat
A7: Majority of decision can be shared but when students are at jeopardy because of failed decision making or safety is at risk the buck stops with me. #MEMSPAchat
Q7: How do you know when you need to make the ultimate decision to solve a problem or when to allow others the chime in to make these decisions? #MEMSPAchat
A7: Tough question. I think a leader knows when to make this call. We need to share decision making with staff but the process needs to be clear when they decide and when we make the decision. #MEMSPAchat
I agree! The less "boxes" I have to check when I leave a meeting/conversation the better. We are surrounded by competent staff who can problem-solve just as well as we can. I find I can support most solutions that are brought to me. #MEMSPAchat
A7: When I start at my new buildings, at the first staff meeting, I share this line and it has done wonders to empower the staff..."Don't come to me with a problem, come to me with a solution." I have watched Ts pace outside my office putting thoughts together #MEMSPAchat
Q7: How do you know when you need to make the ultimate decision to solve a problem or when to allow others the chime in to make these decisions? #MEMSPAchat
A7: One self-check: Over the course of a year, the leader should be able to look back and see that s/he has used a variety of decision-making strategies. Intentionally matching your strategy to the specific issue is where we need to be thoughtful. #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A6: It's not MY job to id the problems. Ts and Ss are in the trenches and they know the problems. I provide the framework for that conversation and work w all to develop solutions #MEMSPAchat
A7: Principals make very few command decisions. There is a continuum of decision-making strategies that we need to employ from limited-concious input to consensus. Learning these different strategies, when to employ them, with whom, and communicating them is key. #memspachat
A7: Ultimately, accountability for decisions in a school rest with the building principal. As such, spread the net wide and large to inform decisions to the best of one's ability, but the final decision, as with final accountability, belongs to the principal. #MEMSPAchat
Others should have an opportunity to share their perspectives. Howerver, the principal is the ultimate synthesizer and ultimate bearer of responsibility. if this is not a decision that can be done by a vote, she/he is the one to do it. A7 #memspachat
Q7: How do you know when you need to make the ultimate decision to solve a problem or when to allow others the chime in to make these decisions? #MEMSPAchat
A7: When it can be collaborative, that's the way to go. If it can't or isn't in the best interests of the students/building, make it and hope staff will respect it. Make enough deposits, so the withdraw isn't so bad. #MEMSPAchat
Q7: How do you know when you need to make the ultimate decision to solve a problem or when to allow others the chime in to make these decisions? #MEMSPAchat
A8: This is such a tough one. It's a work in progress for me. I am determined to focus on the positive, create positivity. It doesn't mean that it's easy. I spin out the negative every day on my #Peloton. :) #LeadPositive#MEMSPAchat
A8. Remember that no matter what the circumstance...no matter how hard...you are blessed to lead an organization that does the most important job in the world...love kids! #MEMSPAchat
A8: Invest in relationships and interests outside of your formal leadership role. Having an identity and support from people who don't view just as the principal enriches your life. Oh...and laugh a lot! #MEMSPAchat#lmcohort9
A8: EASY...Stay off of Facebook and spend more time with the students. They are the pulse of the school and nothing warms my heart more than being attacked by the "Hug Monsters". Drama is a buzz killer. #MEMSPAchat
A8: don’t take things personal, take care of yourself, stay focused on the kids, look at what can be changed instead of what can’t, stay connected to other positive educators #MEMSPAchat
A7: I always try to involve staff when appropriate. You'll get more buy-in from those impacted by the decision that way. If I am the one making the decision, my goal is that trust and relationships are strong enough to understand the rationale for the decision. #MEMSPAchat
Every day before I go to bed I intentionally find at least one good thing that happened. Gratitude is the best anti-dote for negativity. Even when something bad happens, we can grateful that it wasn't worse. See good in everything and every one. A8 #memspachat
A8: Spend time with students! Find joy in the work we do. Practice mindfulness. Working on taking better care of myself so I can be better for those around me. #MEMSPAchat
A8: Spending time with the kids is how I re-energize, refocus and put things back into perspective. Works like a charm every single time. They are the reason I take on this challenge. #MEMSPAchat#LMcohort9
A8: Have a good support network that keeps the positives in sight and is willing to walk beside you when needed. Do your best every day, don't take things personally, and feel the love from the students your are working for! #MEMSPAchat
A8: By seeking sunshine everyday! I have my "go to" places and times in the building to get a student fix, see great instruction, or just escape the minutia of administration. If that's not enough music, mindfulness, and a #MEMSPAchat help!
A8. Do my best to keep things in perspective.. How big of a deal is it really.... And always try and get back into a class, playground, or the lunchroom to connect with kids. The reason for doing any of it. #MEMSPAchat
A7. Always attempt to make decisions collaboratively. Something Instuggled with in past years and still need to grow in. But at the end of the day the Principal is called to make the final decision and ensure that it is aligned with the school’s vision. #MEMSPAchat
A8: EASY...Stay off of Facebook and spend more time with the students. They are the pulse of the school and nothing warms my heart more than being attacked by the "Hug Monsters". Drama is a buzz killer. #MEMSPAchat
A8: surround yourself with positive people and mentors @memspachat😉 I also just go visit my Kdg or CI rooms when I am having a bad day! They always build me up and remind me of why I’m doing this work! #memspachat
A8: It's easy when your number 1 strength is Positivity and you are a Woo wannabe! #memspachat#lmcohort9 . Dan Pink reminds us that is good for us to go negative every once in awhile- we learn a lot about ourselves and become more resilient.
A8: Know what fuels your leadership passions and go there. For me, I love to get into the classrooms, especially our autistic room. I also dive into leadership articles and books. How can I turn the negative into a positive? #LifeLongLearner#MEMSPAchat
A8) I imagine it's easy to feel overwhelmed but step into the hallways and interact with a student. These interactions remind me WHY I do what I do. #MEMSPAchat
A:8 Knowing that all of my decisions are based on what is good for my students. Making it a priority to create a positive culture in my building through intentional activities, events, and strategies that promote positivity and happiness. Happiness Advantage! @#MEMSPAchat