Our chat will focus on the idea that we can lead and make positive change from any position in our school systems. Leadership is not about a title, it is a way of thinking and acting.
Hey, hey #LeadLAP crew! I'm Beth, proud principal of #Fmsteach and co-author of #LeadLAP with the amazing @burgess_shelley! Thanks for being here! Best part of the week-little moments like this!
Good morning crew, Jonathan from Nor Cal. This past week had all our VPs have their monthly meeting offsite and we bought them apps/drinks for the Holidays--was awesome seeing the energy, convos, and collegiality #leadlap
Hello all Jove MS Principal from Central MO. I got to give my grandson a tour of our building as he will be starting there as a student on Monday. #Leadlap
Morning! Nili Bartley trying to jump on from #edcampsemass Thrilled to have facetimed with @BethHouf who was kind enough to connect with us! So much #LeadLAP empowerment here! ☠️😊
Good morning #LeadLAP! Robert, principal of Los Lunas HS here! Got an e-mail from opposing school's AD that my coaches and kids helped clean the bleachers after their road game, something he said he'd never seen. Go Tigers! #OnLosLunas
Laura, middle school lead learner from Wisconsin here! This week @MsLBenishek sent out Friday Thank You notes to her students! Definitely loving her people! #leadlap
Lauren, K-4 Rdg T from Missouri, happy to join #LeadLAP . This week I reconnected with a former student and hopefully spoke some positivity into his future. #alwaysalincolnlion
Scott principal of @ForestGlen41 in suburban Chicago. I had the chance to teach a portion of a literacy lesson yesterday while receiving feedback from my Literacy Coach. Great experience for me as a leader. #LeadLAP
Jessica Steffes 7th Grade World History teacher in KC. I received a letter this week from one of my Student leaders thanking me for believing in her, it was awesome. Love the topic and exited to be here. #LeadLAP
Hi! Tisha HS Culinary Teacher & Discovery Lead. Heading out to be a part of history in the making. Our #smedfordhs football team in the state championships at @reser_stadium! Gave me chills to see the rooter bus’ lined up this morning. Go panthers! #Leadlap
Emily from Missouri here. I’m an elementary admin and a great thing that happened to me this week is a friend told me to read Lead Like a Pirate! #LeadLAP@MrsSchrage
Good morning #LeadLAP gang! I had a wonderful opportunity to learn with my colleagues about High Reliability Schools as we deepen our journey with @MarzanoResearch to provide the best schools for every learner.
Brandi- 1st Grade Teacher @CaldwellElemen in Florida! This was an EPIC week w/ many blessings! One awesome thing was winning the @flipgrid trip to Minneapolis this summer! 💚#LeadLAP
Sue from Vancouver Island Canada 🇨🇦 here! been missing these chats these dark November days are past and looking forward to the holiday season...it’s the little things...the sounds and smells of Christmas #leadlap
This morning I had a wonderful surprise from my co-moderator, @teresagross625 during the chat when she surprised me with this graphic. #LeadLAP - nice memory!
A1: Alana here from South Lake Tahoe, CA. 😊One awesome thing that happened to me this week was at school was that we broke out in dance at our staff meeting. 🎉💃🏻🕺🏽#LeadLAPhttps://t.co/DUkd7kNzKH
Because sometimes you just have to break out and dance at your staff meeting!!!! 🎉💃🏻🕺🏽One of our super star PE teachers, Kathleen Whatford, gave a demo today on how brain breaks can be used in classrooms. 😊#STMSpride#weareLTUSD
<3 @WGU because I can accelerate my learning. I passed my 2nd course in under 1 month! A friend just got a teacher's certification and a master's degree in under 1 year. It's a rigorous program, but so worth it. #leadLAP
#LeadLAP The awesome thing this week: I was winner in the @Samsung Solve For Tomorrow Referral Sweepstakes!! One of our instructors entered and because I referred her I won 65” tv. Will use it for pd and student learning!! Yayyy!
A1. We had secretaries who knew everyone by their first name. When we had one who instantly rose, left the desk to greet them, asked about their families it was marvelous! #leadLAP
A1: We start with greeting everyone who comes in the door with a smile. Especially important for us is that the community knows that our front desk clerk speaks Spanish, which is extremely important for us. #LeadLAP
A1: the first encounter they have is so critical. You have to build a building culture of warm and welcoming everyone. Handshakes, greetings, swag, are all so important. Love when Ts greet Ss at their classroom doors #leadlap
A1: In my office (I work at the district office) this month, we created a Kid Wall - a wall with pictures of everyone's kids. It's fun for us all to chat about & a great reminder of our purpose. #LeadLAP
A1: Telling students and substitutes "Thanks for being here today!" It's the small actions like kind words and smiles that make people feel welcome. #leadLAP
A1: the first encounter they have is so critical. You have to build a building culture of warm and welcoming everyone. Handshakes, greetings, swag, are all so important. Love when Ts greet Ss at their classroom doors #leadlap
A1- great everyone with a smile! Smiling’s my favorite. I think it’s important for us to realize everyone who walks in is our CUSTOMER. Treat them like that and you will be successful. #customerservice#LeadLAP
A1 #LeadLap#OneSmallThing I highly recommend a #JoyStations: They can be the go to to welcome people to your classroom/school culture...the artifacts in them can be personalized to highlight a theme! Dream Big! #VBHasJoy🌻 See in newsletter below: https://t.co/dY9b5Pqvac
When I walk through my doors in the afternoon my kids run to see me or are often waiting on the porch. I try to model the same eagerness with my staff. Greet them on the way in and offer a hug, smile, or handshake. #leadlap
I play music as kids are walking in the door. Build excitement about what they are about to learn. Each song I choose has something to do with the subject or lesson. They like to try to figure out what the lesson is about before we learn #LeadLAP
A1: We have a tv in our front entrance that shows what kids have been doing the month before! Shows we are all about the students! Kids love seeing their pictures! #LeadLAP
A1. Here is a game changer - replace that sign that says "GO TO THE OFFICE" with a welcoming sign on the door, in many languages,letting families know you're glad they are there. #LeadLAP
A1: Smile at them and say hello. I always try to lead with a smile. For the students (and sometimes staff) a high five or a fist bump can help as well. #LeadLAP
A1 Knowing people by name, smiling, hugs, handshakes, high fives. Saying good morning. Being present and visible. Making the office, hallways and classrooms feel warm and inviting. Everyone on campus contributes! #LeadLAP
A1: we filled a display case in our main hallway with pictures of each staff member and their "people" family or friends. The display is labeled "Love Your People" "Who are your people?" #leadlap#loveyourpeople#whitnallpride
A1) I visited EastGate middle School and we were warmly greeted by many staff members and everyone offered us coffee or water. It was part of the culture to treat guests so warmly. #LeadLAP
We are teaching/expecting our Ss to greet visitors with a smile, verbal welcome, and a handshake. This seems to be a pleasant surprise for people that come to our campus! #TrendThePositive#LeadLAP
A1: SMILE with your whole body. Thank them with your eyes. Extend a welcoming touch: a hand, a high five, a hug. Offer them a chair or some token of your desire for them to stay. Invite them to engage and encourage them to join in, to be a part, to belong. #leadlap
A1: We have a tv in our front entrance that shows what kids have been doing the month before! Shows we are all about the students! Kids love seeing their pictures! #LeadLAP
Music is a connection to joy & building healthy relationships. I always tell Tt to have a playlist that can bring instant #joy to their learning environment. #OneSmallThing#LeadLap#VBHasJoy🌻
I play music as kids are walking in the door. Build excitement about what they are about to learn. Each song I choose has something to do with the subject or lesson. They like to try to figure out what the lesson is about before we learn #LeadLAP
A1: I love scanning Ss breakfast cards in the morning! See their faces, set the stage for the day through interaction, and learn everyone’s names! Interact with Ts on Voxer before arriving! #leadlap
A1: I decorate my boards as if I was decorating my house. Want it to feel like home, because for some kids it’s the only one they’ve got. Coffee bar can be earned with chance cards & offer to all that come in my room to judge challenges. #leadlap
A1. We teach lessons on the importance of hospitality. Whenever we have events or guests in the building we include reminder of what hospitality means and that we always want visitors to feel seen when they come onto our campus. #LeadLAP
A1: We all greet students at the door before each class. I feel it's important to say hello to any parent who walks through the door. Right now, a Christmas treat greats visitors at our main office. #LeadLAP
A1 I think too often this seems obvious, but saying someone's name out loud and shaking their hands goes such a long way! We all ache to be noticed and feel that we are important. #leadlap
A1: Make the entry visually appealing. Bring in items to soften the space. Keep things as clutter free as possible. The first thing they should see from you is a SMILE #LeadLAP
SO true. Does it seem like nobody wants to pick up the phone anymore, like it has to be an emergency first? I love phone calls. I love making them and receiving them! I miss the voice to voice. A LOT! #leadlap
A1. Here is a game changer - replace that sign that says "GO TO THE OFFICE" with a welcoming sign on the door, in many languages,letting families know you're glad they are there. #LeadLAP
A1: We have a tv in our front entrance that shows what kids have been doing the month before! Shows we are all about the students! Kids love seeing their pictures! #LeadLAP
A1: There's nothing more important than the sound of one's name to create the foundation for trust & relationship. Greet people by name and w/ a smile. #LeadLAP
Check out this idea @OakHarborPS@OHPS_Super -"We're glad you're here today!" printed on late slips. What a great way to encourage attendance! Love this! #LeadLAP
A1. When we have visitors, like parent visitation day, we will open the day playing the song Be our Guest and remind Ss and staff about the imptance of hospitality. People should leave our school feeling better than when they arrived. #LeadLAP
A1 Symbols r really important. What do folks c when they enter the school? Create a meaningful welcoming sign. Have S paint the entrance doors. What do folks c in the display cases? Do we see S work right away? Are we only displaying trophies? How r people greeted? #LeadLAP
The wall by the office is our “Wall of Fame” with students, teacher, employee, Coach, and athlete of the month. Everyone who comes in the school can see that #LeadLAP
A1: Smiling, 😊 saying peoples’ first names in greeting, acknowledging kids by modeling positive interactions & finding reasons to be grateful for EVERY single person in the school building helps to build a positive culture and climate. 👏🏼☀️ #LeadLAP
A1: My one coworker stands at the top of our main staircase and welcomes absolutely every student and staff member BY NAME as they arrive in the morning. It's profoundly meaningful. #LeadLAP
A1: I have a Student Ambassador who welcomes visitors as they enter my classroom! We incorporate SHAKE & the S shares what we are learning so visitors are aware & feel welcomed! Soft skillls! #Leadlap
Folks are in the morning drop-off line with speakers and at the bus lot greeting each student and staff member with me. It's a #CelebrateMonday Party! Goodies are also waiting for faculty. #LeadLAP
A1. When we have visitors, like parent visitation day, we will open the day playing the song Be our Guest and remind Ss and staff about the imptance of hospitality. People should leave our school feeling better than when they arrived. #LeadLAP
A1. We always had students greet our guests at the doors and assigned additional students near the handicapped areas to provide special help for those who parked in those areas when we had special events. #LeadLAP
A1: birthday announcements with certificates pencils bracelets and bookmarks #pirateswag kids love it and love seeing their name on birthday board #LeadLAP
Bam! A positive phone call is music to parents ears...and a bridge to their hearts-which happens to be their child! It's a connection that will flourish! #VBHasJoy🌻 #LeadLap#DavespeaksTruth
A2: The easiest way is to put down the tech & talk face-to-face! If not possible, I try to include a personal greeting within a message, asking about someone's child or recent interview, etc. #LeadLAP
A1. When we have visitors, like parent visitation day, we will open the day playing the song Be our Guest and remind Ss and staff about the imptance of hospitality. People should leave our school feeling better than when they arrived. #LeadLAP
A2. Snail Mail. I love writing notes to teachers, PLN member, and students. It builds relationships and just puts a smile on their face. If I can pick up the phone and make the call, I feel it goes much further then an email. #leadlap
A2: When I communicate with staff and families (often via technology), I make it a point to mention how I am honored to serve them and their children. #LeadLAP
Walking down the hall Ss said they saw my “movie” and thanked me for reading a book to them! I had @kc_counselor record me read “I Am Peace” Ts could project on SmartBoards. Swelled Heart! #KidsDeserveIt#LetFreedomRoar#LeadLAP
A2: When I do a Positive Principal Phone Call Home, we have a mini celebration in the office. Also, each student receives a personalized certificate. #LeadLAP
A2 2 notes a day to staff, meeting with students who get positive referrals and thanking them, recognize students and staff in morning announcements and on social media. #Leadlap
A2: I love integrating emojis, graphics, or pix in communication with staff. Helps to lighten messages that may be monotonous or typically boring. 😜👀😬#LeadLAP
A1: I have a Student Ambassador who welcomes visitors as they enter my classroom! We incorporate S.P.E.C.I.A.L. & the S shares what we are learning so visitors are aware & feel welcomed! Soft skillls! #Leadlap
A1 How folks are greeted when they enter a school is critical. First impressions count. This is especially critical for stakeholders who may be uncomfortable. The reception desk area and what is said there sets a tone. #LeadLAP
A1: I have created a "living room" in my classroom to make it more welcoming. In the morning, we keep the lights low, have lamps on, and I have soft music playing. Me & the teens aren't morning people & this makes the transition easier. #LeadLAP
A2: I use the red stamp app to add pics of things we see around the school and send personalized digital cards to Ts to recognize great things. #leadlap
A2: My email signature says "Thanks for all you do" rather than "Sincerely" along with a picture of hearts. I love adding pictures to our @ClassDojo Class Stories to add a personal touch to communication. #leadLAP
A2: I start every meeting and blog post with "Praise and Thanks." This is where I give shoutouts to teammates/bandmates who are #MakingItHappen. I give shoutouts in Morning Announcements to students and classes. #LeadLAP
So awesome; music on the curb is the best though when the cheerleaders and athletes come to car and bus rider duty is pretty magical, too! Our Ss LOVE being greeted by their Hometown Heroes. #leadlap
A2. Snail Mail. I love writing notes to teachers, PLN member, and students. It builds relationships and just puts a smile on their face. If I can pick up the phone and make the call, I feel it goes much further then an email. #leadlap
A1: There's nothing more important than the sound of one's name to create the foundation for trust & relationship. Greet people by name and w/ a smile. #LeadLAP
A2: we pick students of the month. Those that are not exactly A students but are working hard. We have a special catered lunch and the teachers tell them in front of all the kids why they chose them. We also send home hand written letters to Parents #LeadLAP
A2: In Remind messages, I will include a photo of me outside of school with my son, our dog, or with my horses. I also use Bitmoji's in emails to other staff. Every now and then, a meme can be added. #LeadLAP
A2: When I send an email to another student of professor, I add in a signature line that relates to the content of the message -- nothing as boring as "Sincerely" #leadlap
A2: On those hard days when we are all feeling a bit "in the weeds", a little inside joke or meme in my inbox from a coworker goes a long way to perk me up! #LeadLAP
A2: If you’re in communication via tech, adding a link to a potentially useful resource for that person is great. It’s useful and a sign that you’re thinking about their needs. #LeadLAP
A2: I try to send a weekly email to the community that includes a short video that allows them an inside look at the work we are doing. I ask staff to send me pics and video clips from their work and compile it together w/the help of some students #LeadLap
Love everything about this practice! Inspiring! Sincere! Life-Changing! A reminder of our Why! You know I love your leadership, Beth. I want to visit your school so badly. #EduBucketList#LeadLAP
A2: Be in the parking lot at pick ups&drop offs, greet buses,greet as many people as possible by name, b there 2listen in person, phone calls 2connect by voice, thank you/you are appreciated cards, calls home 2employee spouses-thank them 4their support inthe background. #LeadLAP
A2: trying to do f2f as often as possible, picking up the phone, using @voxer so folks can hear the voice, and good old regular mail--send cards, stickers, etc #leadlap
A2: I usually "sign" my emails with my first name. (Not just the official signature) And I introduce myself by first name to adults. It's small, but it makes them feel like they can call/email me anytime. "Hey Jenn. I need...." It matters. #LeadLAP
Q2 Someone once told me you should always smile when you talk on the phone and that your smile can be “heard”...I think it works when you type an email too! #LeadLAP
A2. Next time you walk into your school's office or an admin office, reflect for a minute ..... does the desk send the message of authority? Is it the MAIN item? Make a plan to change this! Communication should be #1 #LeadLAP
A2) Praise from admin is great, but encouraging staff to praise each other face to face is a game changer. Creates bonds, increased trust, and collective growth. #LeadLAP
A1 To set a tone, reception area folks should never say, "I don't know where the principal is." Professionalism is critical, celebrate honesty, "The P is visiting classes." "The P is with S in the cafeteria, greeting students by the busses, talking with a few S." #LeadLAP
I love this. Yesterday one of our teachers hosted a Caring Breakfast and did something similar, to thank those kind kids who sometimes go unnoticed. #leadlap
A2) We started writing positive referrals. They are hand written by the staff, principal calls parents and students get to take it home. #noneedfortech#personaltouch#LeadLAP
A2: I like to talk face to face w parents have conversations in the library sitting on a couch or comfy chair instead of “principals office”. Same with kids...just last week I had student say I don’t like coming to the principals office but wait we are in the library! #LeadLAP
Please do. I get so many great ideas from #LeadLAP. I am totally starting that "student ambassador" idea to have a student greet visitors to my classroom.
Adding a pic or pics of students to the email, letting the Ss speak to Ps. Taking time to listen when on the phone so Ps know they have been heard. #LeadLAP
A2: making a phone call? Ask for update on something you talked about last time. Don’t always call with something YOU need. We too often listen to reply rather than understand. #LeadLAP
A2: Our #goodnewscalloftheday kiddos get a Love Your People bracelet to honor their efforts! Parents have a chance to have a conversation with me, no rush! #leadlap
A3: As often as possible!!! Face to face is always better in my opinion when it comes to relationships. If its just info - send an email. If it's something that requires more of a convo - go face to face. #LeadLAP
A2 My colleague @cbasile14 & I are launching our school's first ever mini edcamp and to promote it, we use videos to reach Ts & admin in a real way:) #leadlap
A3: If a situation is sticky, or if there has been some confusion because someone read tone into an e-mail, the conversation is always face-to-face. Plus, I'll go to them, so there's not the threat of "Having to go see the boss." #LeadLAP
Sometimes it’s hard when in a large district, many buildings, interoffice mail & Hershey kisses with a simple “Thinking of you” note does WONDERS #leadlap#findawaytoshowyoucare 😊
This week I got to make some calls to offer our help for the holidays thanks to the generosity of a school in IN who sent gift cards for our flooded friends. It was SUPER fun playing Santa! #leadlap
A2, To begin, we should never substitute technology, if we need to see someone face-to-face when an important point needs to be addressed. Technology should not be used to avoid people. #LeadLAP
#JoyfulLeaders alert-See Below. I agree Emily-you can send emails through the lens of your mindset-A positive, joyful one can ensure you're writing with empathy, kindness and heart. #LeadLap#OneSmallThing
Q2 Someone once told me you should always smile when you talk on the phone and that your smile can be “heard”...I think it works when you type an email too! #LeadLAP
A3 important when you want to deliver praise to individuals or groups. Personal thank you’d and interactions are never more affective than when you do it fiancé to face #Leadlap
A2: I leave positive notes for staff members, printed on bright yellow paper, 😊they often end up on someone’s wall, see printout: https://t.co/hyoXGcj2QJ I also love to print and put up pics of staff members & Ss at school events to build #STMSpride#LeadLAP
A3 Emails should be for business. F2F, phone calls and personal notes should be how everything else is communicated. It brings a personal element into it. #LeadLAP
A3: use face to face as often as possible. Emails should only be for factual info as anything with emotional content can be misinterpreted and lacks the human connection required #LeadLAP
A2: Sending Anchor of Appreciation notes to our crew or messages in a bottle or small treasures...from the heart of appreciation...from their pirate captain #leadlap
A2) As a parent, I wouldn't separate tech from a "personal touch." A text and email is personal if it's just to us and is about our kid. So I'd start with changing the mindset that tech is less personal. It's often more accessible. #LeadLAP
A2: As one build relationship you begin share those person touch moments. Saying "Happy Birthday" when ending a phone conversation. Ask about the grandparent or parent you have been told previously by a parent is ill. #LeadLAP
A2b: I don't know if I'll have time, but I'm thinking about adding a short sharing session to my student's weeks: have them share one compliment about a classmate every Friday #leadlap
A3 Face2Face is a good idea when talking Ss improvements, placements, or behavior Ts body language can assist in this convos Wish it was possible to have all these talks Face2Face #LeadLAP
A2: Bcause my first love was art I quick sketched a pic of teacher while I was visiting class last week. Left it on his desk with inspirational message. I’m going to try doing more of these!#LeadLAP
A3: I try to get out and make f2f connections as much as possible and write as few emails as possible. Difficult to really know how someone is doing through email. #leadlap
A3: Every moment that Ss and Ts are at school is time to ditch emails. I don’t really get to emails during the day. Maybe via phone on the walk between classrooms. My engagement and attention should be on people. #leadlap
A3. We must always choose F2F first and build genuine relationships. Too much gets lost in email or text. Phone and other voice platforms would be next to f2f in terms of effectiveness. #leadlap
A3: When it comes to matters of the heart, when there is emotion involved in the situation - face to face conversations are the only way to go #leadlap
A3: Connecting beyond the keys is essential in maintaining relationships!! There’s power in HEARING the conversation vs. reading it! Especially when tough convos need to happen! #leadlap
We are truly grateful! What a #momentmaker here! So glad I got to tell you in person, too! We truly celebrate #LeadLAP! Time for another meet-up! #EdCampLeadLAP or #LeadLAPSummit be it in person or virtual. Just saying! I will host!
In reply to
@BethHouf, @missliz31, @burgess_shelley, @burgessdave
A2: #leadlap I keep my messages short and to the point. Bullet points helps. I also don't send out messages too often. Tgis way they know its important when they see it. Don't want them losing my message on hundreds of other communication.
A2 How we use technology sets a personal example for others. When possible, keep communication brief. Words matter. It is critical to stay positive, & specific. Always keeping in mind: How will this help students? How will this help teachers be the best they can be? #LeadLAP
The receptionists may be the most important purveyors of your culture. I suspect that starts with making them feel like an important part of it. #LeadLAP
A1 How folks are greeted when they enter a school is critical. First impressions count. This is especially critical for stakeholders who may be uncomfortable. The reception desk area and what is said there sets a tone. #LeadLAP
A3: Every moment that Ss and Ts are at school is time to ditch emails and have personal convos. I don’t really do emails during the day unless it’s to a group of people or has multiple steps to follow. #leadlap
A3: A lot can get lost in technological communication. Any time you are confused by an email or the tone, always better to connect w the person F2F bc it usually always clears up misinterpretations. 👍🏼😊#LeadLAP
A3- anytime you need to address a serious issue. A teacher doesn’t need a text or email for a death in the family or a mad parent. They need face to face #leadlap
So true. At winter break we give Ts a small gift with a note thanking them for all they do. I can't believe how many Ts tell me they've saved all my notes over the years #LeadLAP
A3: You want to look students in the eyes when they are answering questions. It makes a huge difference-- do they feel as though they're making a positive contribution to their own and others' learning, or not? #leadlap
A3: #leadlap When something practical has to be shown. Emails can get confusing. Folks may take longer to get to it. So a quick phone call + walk to their office saves us plenty of pointless back and forth.
Yes @sheehyrw! This reminded how @Voxer has been a powerful tool to leave an encouraging msg to staff & colleagues. By simply recording a msg to yourself & emailing or texting it to them can have a big impact! #LeadLAP
A3. We must always choose F2F first and build genuine relationships. Too much gets lost in email or text. Phone and other voice platforms would be next to f2f in terms of effectiveness. #leadlap
A4: We announce birthdays and try to do more personal recognition. Principal @ryanssiemens & I try to send a little card or gift for special occasions for the whole staff. #LeadLAP
A3: If the information is simply consumption and move on it’s an email. F2F visit and conversations mean an investment in that person and work to build relationships #LeadLAP
A4. Give the gift of time. Take a class and offer to help them in other ways. I have also sent a teacher out to lunch on their special day, while taking their class while they were out. #leadlap
A4 Celebrate! Or team has birthday lunches for each member of our team We often sing for Ss birthdays or celebrate accomplishments in & out of school w/our Ss #LeadLAP
Yes; leaders can have a tremendous impact by carving out time to intentionally affirm what's right with a school (or district) and saying "thank you"- this can set the tone & highlight what's right with the school (rather than focusing on what's wrong) #leadlap#edchat
A4: #leadlap We celebrate every birthday in our department. A quick acknowledgement and constructive feedback goes a long way. I try to limit my compliments since then they won't have the same value. May even sound hollow or predictable.
A4: My favourite tradition is having a Christmas Staff lunch! Turkey and all the fixings! @ryanssiemens Makes a great time for staff to relax and visit. #LeadLAP
A1: My one coworker stands at the top of our main staircase and welcomes absolutely every student and staff member BY NAME as they arrive in the morning. It's profoundly meaningful. #LeadLAP
A4: Gynzy is a program that makes presentations on Interactive Whiteboards easier, and there's a tool that allows birthday students to decorate their own virtual cake, and the rest of the class can blow out the candles! Pretty fun. #leadlap
A4: We take the birthday pencils to the classroom; stop the class and ask the child to come to the front, hold their pencil high and and let them know we love and are celebrating with them! Staff gets this card w/their birthday pencil & a candy bar. #leadlap
A3: at the junior high level, it is a MUST for me to sit with my coworkers after school. We share our successes and our foibles. We laugh and cry together. We air frustrations & concerns and make game plans. We go home more BALANCED. #LeadLAP
A4: Names announced on intercom and hand written notes mean so much to people! We celebrate silly holidays just to keep people smiling throughout the year. Who doesn’t love national chocolate cupcake day? #leadlap
A3: At the first sign of miscommunication. Or when you learn that this particular parent, colleague or stakeholder response positively by the human interaction. The verbal connection allows mood, tone, and sincerity is present. #LEADLAP@burgess_shelley
A3- I keep emails for generic stuff. If I want to rockers gratitude or even have an area of concern I do it face to face. It’s usually faster than writing an email anyways #LeadLAP
A4: This is not one of my strengths. I make it a point to make a personal connection on those days, even if I just walk by and say "I hope you're having a great day!" #LeadLAP
A4 Definitely an area I can improve on. I do more whole staff acknowledgment often. Cards, coffee cart, praise in our weekly staff newsletter, etc #LeadLAP
A4: I need to get better at this. Sometimes just taking the time to say hello and not just walk by. Even better is being able to ask a personal question about something they have shared with you recently. #LeadLAP
Be present...all in with body language, facial expressions. Think how often we don’t focus 100% in what someone is saying to us. Ss and Ps and Ts deserve our attention. #KidsDeserveIt#LeadLAP
Ditch that email anytime ur tired, message is about notmeeting expectations or can b misinterpreted. Ditch that text &make thephone call 2connect&share that "I know that we can work 2gether 2make you/your son/your daughter successful at this.Power in personal connection. #LeadLAP
A4: I try to send out weekly thank you notes as part of my End if the week email to recognize people for their hard work and special accomplishments #LeadLap
A4b: Just the act of eating lunch with other teachers, asking them about their days, and going to them with questions and advice does wonders! #leadlap
3) email is for communicating with the masses or HR matters. Every other communication should be done in person. Eye contact, body language, and inflection increases successful communication. Communication is the foundation for trust!#LeadLAP
As a T I am enjoying reading these positive actions you do for staff. Am adopting several to implement in our 3rd gr CR Thx for this helpful chat this AM #leadlap
In reply to
@BethHouf, @smgaillard, @missliz31, @burgess_shelley, @burgessdave
A3 I am a tech coach and I always prefer face to face:) but most certainly times where opportunities for real conversations about what makes us jump out of the bed in the morning and run to school-always better face to face #leadlap
A4. I try to make sure my kids feel important and special everyday!!!! We laugh, dance, sing, learn and fail enthusiastically together daily!! #LeadLAP
#LeadLAP 4: I give birthday cards out to staff. When certain data comes out, I highlight those that have above and beyond the best. Ex. Balloons on the door
I got a thank you note from a teacher this week for giving her a release day to conference and connect w/ her students. That personal note made my day! Love seeing Ts #LeadLAP and #TLAP.
A4: Sending emails to teachers thanking them for stepping up and being leaders and then being thanked for sending that email...wow...powerful for both of us #kindness#gratitude#leadlap
Give everyone the chance to recognize their colleagues! I love being able to send out weekly shout outs from those that work with people the closest! #leadlap
A1 & 2. School leaders must be visible. A principal's office is not the center of a school. The center is the classrooms, hallways, labs, cafeteria, media center, bus areas, gyms, reception area. Where leaders spend time sends an ethical message: this school area counts.#LeadLAP
A4: I am organizing having two local massage therapists donate time for a day for a little love for our hard working staff💆🏻♂️💆🏼♀️. Ts sign up for 15 min slots during their prep for a well deserved break! 😊 #LeadLAP#StaffAppreciation
A4: The person of the day (POD) rotates everyday. The POD gets to share, sit in the bean bag chair, and be the line leader. We line up in #order starting w/ POD. So one day will be 4,5,6... next day 5,6,7...#LeadLAP
A3) Never "ditch" any form of communication, but absolutely welcome and invite any opportunity to connect in person. There isn't a "when"; any time. #LeadLAP
A5: #leadlap Leave lot of room to walk around. Open areas with green spaces. We are also doing a major office renovation next year to include more white boards on walks to brainstorm ideas and visualize thoughts.
Kids love to hear their name announced. Even Ss who don't talk much will stop at my morning spot and tell me when it's their birthday. Then I play Happy Birthday on my ukulele and sing for them. #leadlap
A4. IF you have permission to use the photos of other teachers, creating an ElfYourself can bring lots of belly laughs throughout the hallways https://t.co/oAVcYwSzk5#LeadLAP
A5. Put up pictures that show what we value. My main office has pictures of kids because that is the business we are in and my staff have a wall with all of our families on it, because that is why we are there. Focus on what is important and make sure others know. #leadlap
A5: I encourage teachers to post student work so that it is visible in the hallways. We have college pennants in every hall. We have TVs around the school with schedules, photos, etc. #LeadLAP
A5 My classroom has Christmas lights around the room, student work displayed, play music when they come in and leave, and even while working sometimes, share pictures of student events #LeadLAP
A4: It's the little things that make the biggest difference. Know your people. It may be public acknowledgment, a private note, a diet coke, a latte waiting on their desk in the morning. Individualize for what is meaningful to each person. #LeadLAP
A4: One must attempt to acknowledge those special days. If a teacher wins a class grant, Librarian wins "State Librarian of the Year"...etc. Tweet that! Announce that! RoboCall That! Change the school sign to reflect that! #LeadLAP
A5- I like to say we have high school rigor but an elementary heart and feel. Kids need color, they need to see their work, their names highlighted. We try and make our spaces feel like home #LeadLAP
A5: As one of the first people in the building this year, I try to start the first pot of coffee. One less thing for others to do. #LeadLAP#itsthelittlethings
A5: I'm looking forward to providing flexible seating for my students: beanbag chairs, exercise balls, couches... This is something I definitely could've used as a students, to feel more comfortable in my environment and with my teacher. #leadlap
A5: My office has LOTS of books for students to read and many different calming tools for them to access too. Creating a safe space for them to come and talk about problems. #LeadLAP
A5: We are trying to build a college and career promoting environment in our halls and classrooms. Promoting present positives and future goals. #leadlap
A5. Right now there are decorations all over the office. For everyday, there is student artwork, my favourite inspiring quotes, children’s books and some toys in my office #LeadLAP
A5: I bought an LED light strip. I need to remember to turn it on to liven up the physical space. Also, I sometimes play music. Plus, I post student work right by the door. I have a tent (privacy during lockdowns) and a beanbag chair. #LeadLAP
I kind of took over the wall outside my CR and it is covered in Ss infographics they drew to teach about the 9 elements of #digcit#LeadLAP and also verb conjugations :)
A5: we have a SAS night Student Achievement Success night each students work is presented like ina museum and all parents are sent invitations in the mail to come and see. Makes parent night more meaningful #LeadLAP
A5: during the month of December we encourage everyone to wear holiday themed hats kids love it! We have pajama day on the same day we have a school wide pancake breakfast before Christmas break #sweet#leadlap
5) wall space is for defining who we are. Walls provide the opportunity to tattoo our personalities on the building we occupy. Schools are the people, not the bricks and mortar. #leadlap
Greet veryone with a smile. It's also important to make connections with people. Sometimes parents are coming to school to deal with difficult situations. It's our job to listen to them, value their input, and let them know we work as a team.
A5 I am such a caveman in this area, but I am making new table signs that have job descriptions, #NGSS#CCC & #SEP as well as room norms More visible the better #LeadLAP
A5: This Q begs a pict of our ukulele lab. This area used to hold band lockers but I asked that they be removed for these magical little #growthmindset instruments w/the help from a generous donation from @burgessdave and @burgess_shelley#leadlap
A3. Great Q. Of course, all important issues must be addressed face to face. Any time good or bad news needs to be delivered it should be face to face. Yes, good news too. Too often r most effective T are taken 4 granted. They must be celebrated. They need to SEE smiles. #LeadLAP
#leadlap Q1
Greet veryone with a smile. It's also important to make connections with people. Sometimes parents are coming to school to deal with difficult situations. It's our job to listen to them, value their input, and let them know we work as a team.
Most of the folks who put up stuff that is visible are very good about rotating the work that is on display. Occasionally, someone needs a reminder. #LeadLAP
A5 Got rid of the big furniture in my office and put in a table and chairs to minimize the “authoritative” nature of the principals office. Pictures, books, stuffed animals. #LeadLAP
A5: Clean. Put some thought into decor. Create space for a comfortable flow for movement and conversation. Make sure the focus is on kids. We need to show who we are ALL about. #LeadLAP
Boom! Even if they have a refreshment sitting on their desks, they'll take one. The other day, we had a guest teacher who asked, "I get the whole can?" It was precious! #leadlap
A5: Lots of different, natural & comfortable (not insitutionalized!) seating configurations where people might naturally congregate. Real, living plants! Softer lighting than fluorescents. #LeadLAP
A5: I made a staff collage at the beginning of the year with pics of teachers and staff members doing fun things during the summer outside of school. Fun way for students to connect with us all and see us for who we are 😊👏🏼. #LeadLAP
A5: We added some real furniture o the staff lounge instead of folding chairs, we put a TV in main hallway to show off the school hashtag and make that walk an interest point, added color and wraps to our main office and cafeteria to help brand with school colors #LeadLAP
A5: Your building becomes the expectation & experience that you set! You will get what you expect! Your building should deliver an experience that is amazing for kids everyday- not some of the time! #leadlap
A5: Helping my students understand that our school spaces are shared, and that we all have the responsibility to keep our spaces tidy and clean. #LeadLAP
I love that @OakHarborPS releases "The Scoop" each week to share the awesome things happening in our district. They just released an app too. Our music teachers just won competitive grants and bought ukeleles and marimbas. #LeadLAP
A4: One must attempt to acknowledge those special days. If a teacher wins a class grant, Librarian wins "State Librarian of the Year"...etc. Tweet that! Announce that! RoboCall That! Change the school sign to reflect that! #LeadLAP
We >really< need to shift to communication rather than being authority figures. That may have been true decades ago and most may still live in that time. #LeadLAP
I’ve tried to do the same thing. Actually had a student comment yesterday that my office seemed a lot bigger than how the previous principal had it set up. #leadlap
A5: After visiting RCA, @GuysBride & I transformed our cafeteria to showcase Ss & Ts!! We framed pictures & it brought the space to life!! @ronclarkacademy Inspired! #LeadLAP
THIS is a beautiful display!
I heard of a school where the Art teacher got an 8X10 portrait of each teacher and cut it in half to allow the students to draw the other half, then posted them at the entrance of the school. #leadlap
A5: I made a staff collage at the beginning of the year with pics of teachers and staff members doing fun things during the summer outside of school. Fun way for students to connect with us all and see us for who we are 😊👏🏼. #LeadLAP
A5: I made a staff collage at the beginning of the year with pics of teachers and staff members doing fun things during the summer outside of school. Fun way for students to connect with us all and see us for who we are 😊👏🏼. #LeadLAP
A5 In my office I have stuffed animals of familiar book characters- Dr Seuss, If You Give a Mouse, etc. Kids recognize them immediately and it helps us connect over a fav book, even if they come for a tough conversation. #LeadLAP
Q5: My principal @jody_lundell always has a full fruit bowl on her office table with the unwritten rule that if you need a piece, you are welcome to it. Many of us did the same with our apple tree apples in the fall: bowls out for kids in classes. They ate them all! #Leadlap
My classroom is in a garage! Christmas lights, different learning spaces (desks, lab tables, collaboration tables, green screen space) welcome screen and music every morning. I try. #tlap#LeadLAP
A5: so important to make the classroom and schools like Disneyland--enchanting and wanting kids excited to be there. Dress-up days, contests days, and tons of student work are a great start #leadlap
A5: For fun, I tried mixing in funny stuff with our news on a newsletter in staff bathrooms. I called it the Stall Sentinel. It was kind of fun, for a change. #leadlap
I think it's a neat idea to invite pics of families, demonstrating they're a part of the school too. Also thinking of the need to be sensitive to different or nonexistent family situations... #LeadLAP
Q2: yesterday I called 8 parents to say thank you... had to start the conversation w "your child is fine." Will do this more often to chg the norm #LeadLAP
A4 The special days r an opportunity to reinforce what should occur every day: you r valued 4 your contribution to our students, and 4 your contribution to colleagues. Again, the great teachers should never be neglected, or taken for granted. They set a tone for others. #leadlap
A2: yesterday I called 8 parents to say thank you... had to start the conversation w "your child is fine." Will do this more often to chg the norm #LeadLAP
6) well my kids just asked me to play and typically I would say “no- not right now” while in a chat... going to practice what I preach and say “yes” this time. Have a great Saturday everyone.#leadlap
A6 The only thing I say No to regularly is using restroom during CR time #DontJudge Everything else is open for discussion Ss need to feel their small requests matter, as do fellow Ts #LeadLAP
A6: This happened just this week. As the reading specialist, Ss are always asking when they'll be able to come to my classroom. They might never need reading help, but they can come eat lunch in my classroom. Just a chance to connect and feel special. #LeadLAP
A6: I really need to say "yes" when students ask, "Can I go on https://t.co/vdHsHf610K?" during their station time, especially since this is Computer Science week! #LeadLAP
A6: I say "no" too often... found out yesterday in class that in today's society, if a student wants to talk about "something really important," take the time to talk to them. It could have very serious implications. #leadlap
A6: I tell them that if they think the answer is no, they need to come with a way to change it so the answer will be yes. Ss come up with great ideas for change! #leadlap
A6: I feel like I yes to most things. This would be a great question to ask those I serve to see if there is “no” out there that I make “yes” to impact things for them #LeadLAP
A7 Slow down! Take the time to make those interpersonal connections w/Ss & Ts that help build relationship This time of year Ts go too fast...hit the breaks #LeadLAP
A7: Instead of a prepared lesson for counseling class this week, we're going to circle up and cook up our Intentional Acts of Kindness. I can't wait to hear what my superheroes plan to do to make our world brighter! #leadlap
A5: our staff room desp needs help... want it covered w team goals and notes celebrating achievements, our own wonders and our questions: model learning #LeadLAP
A7: Write a note to one of my classmates! We all need encouragement about whether we have the potential to be Teachers of Impact-- it's so helpful to let them know they're not alone! #leadlap
A6: almost everything! Can I do this on computer? Can I sit here? Can I work in the hall? Can I listen to music? Can I eat my snack? As a teacher, ask: if it's not part of my mandatory measurement of demonstrated learning, do I have to utterly control it? #LeadLAP
A7 we are starting Monday morning with a student led lesson. My s's wants to lead a project she designed based on a #classroombookaday we read this week. So excited! #LeadLAP
A6: My support staff would laugh out loud 2see me respond to this. I've been given the challenge by them& my hubby 2work on saying no. I've adapted this to working on timing & creating structures to say yes w/out overcommitting time or other resources. #LeadLAP
A7: Planning a few mini random acts of kindness (Secret Elf)! Hoping it uplifts others & inspires them to do more kindness acts this holiday season!! #Leadlap
A6: This happened just this week. As the reading specialist, Ss are always asking when they'll be able to come to my classroom. They might never need reading help, but they can come eat lunch in my classroom. Just a chance to connect and feel special. #LeadLAP
A7. I am going to figure out how to contact college level, education professors from all across the country and invite them to #BookCampPD Twitter chats. I want us to learn together for the sake our tomorrow's students. #LeadLAP
A7: My students have been asking when our elf on the shelf will be returning. I was thinking about not doing it this year, but the kids love it so much. #LeadLAP
A7: I have a tendency to want to talk about work 24/7. Being at AVID Nationals, I need to be quiet sometimes and let Ts have fun when we are out of sessions! #LeadLAP
A7 Sorry couldn't participate a lot, but one thing I will certainly do is join #leadlapmass tom morning and join a crew that continues to grow and make an impact together based on the amazing #leadlap book:)
A7: Later this week we will be kicking off our “12 days before winter break” fun with the staff. Still working on finalizing things but am looking to keep morale high during the holiday season. #LeadLap
A7 Make time to talk with each S about their #pbl and also to work with all Ss on how to create presentations, and connect them to other Ss to work together more #LeadLAP
Or choose Yes! when it empowers others to step up in a distributed leadership model, managing their own selves so it frees you up to do less :) #LeadLAP
A7: Leave a fun meme with a daily surprise for each staff member each morning as we celebrate our own version of The Twelve Days of Christmas. It makes my days start off great and makes everyone smile when they get to work. #LeadLAP
A6 I can't always say "yes" immediately. But since saying "no" almost guarantees Ts will feel rejected, I say "let me think about it" or "let's brainstorm to see how we can make that work" #leadlap
A7. Such great ideas and practices on #LeadLAP this week. Thank you all. I am going to try @principledlady idea of sending quotes when they remind me of people? I love that idea.
A7: I am started yesterday so a bit of a cheer, but doing a 31days of #ERHSJoy for our teachers to spread some cheer and celebrate a student using that hashtag. Then one each day will be highlighted and shared on the school accounts. #LeadLAP
A7: visit all of our Discovery Trs to check in and deliver treat & note of encouragement as we head into the 2 week stretch before the holiday. #leadlap
A7: I am started yesterday so a bit of a cheer, but doing a 31days of #ERHSJoy for our teachers to spread some cheer and celebrate a student using that hashtag. Then one each day will be highlighted and shared on the school accounts. #LeadLAP
A6 It is so important to model r beliefs. If we expect parents to attend plays, sporting events, classroom presentations, we need to help T attend these events 4 THEIR children. Change no to yes, personally substitute 4 a T so they can attend, or have colleagues cover. #LeadLAP
I just love their great ideas, teaching, projects, and getting to see the kids. It's hard to say yes and only enjoy the pictures and not some of the moments. Here's to great teachers and staff! #LeadLAP
A7: I will examine my furniture configuration and figure out how I can carve out a reliable space where I can sit WITH kids more regularly--for conferencing, guided reading, collaboration (rather than just pulling up a chair in the aisle) #LeadLAP
A7: intentional random acts of kindness and surprise notes, small gifts, and intentional listening conversations. Smile, laugh, and be positive and low stress #leadlap
A7. Kids and I will be creating our giving tree next week- we brainstormed how we can make a difference at our home, school,community and world- kids creating couple for home and school- community we will deliver ⛄️ soup to 👨🏼🚒👨🏻🏭 also choosing a charity! #leadlap
A7: This week, one thing that’s resonating with me is that EVERY single moment is a moment to #Culturize so important not to have kids only see you rushing around all the time but to connect with them every chance we get. 👏🏼https://t.co/xqlvJIlFgG#LeadLAP
Never pass up an opportunity to smile and greet a student or staff member in a positive way. It just might make all the difference for them at that moment. #Culturize#FutureReady
Neat. Because I do think that as awesome as images of teachers and students are, it's incomplete without some representation of families. #ptchat#LeadLAP
Have a greet weekend and mark your calendars to join me for the first ever #BeTheOne twitter chat. December 6th at 7:45pm CST. This will be the fastest 15 minutes on twitter. You will not want to miss this! #LeadLap
