Learning through leadership

My first year as principal was the most challenging yet rewarding year of my career. I learned so much about myself through the many obstacles I had to overcome. Here are the top 10 things that I learned:

1. The most important part about leadership is that people matter. Treat people with kindness, be caring, and show support. In turn, teachers and staff will work hard for you. The same applies to teachers in the classroom and how they build relationships with their students. 

2. Be consistent with your actions (for yourself and others). Say what you mean and mean what you say and stick with it. People want leaders who are consistent even if they do not agree with everything they say and do. 

3. Integrity matters! Whether you are in the limelight or behind the scenes, people watch what you do. 

4. Hold people accountable. Critical conversations are not easy for most, but they are necessary. When you hold others accountable, the more respect will earn you as a leader. 

5. Have clear systems and structures in place. Oftentimes, in a classroom, it may appear that students desire chaos and freedom; however, they want systems and structures. The same applies for leading a school. Schools thrive better when there are clear systems and structures in place that help faculty and staff work smarter and not harder. 

6. Lead by doing (servant leadership). Be in the trenches and not on the sidelines when it comes to the work. 

7. Build capacity and develop future leaders. Think long down the line and how systems can be sustainable after you leave your position. 

8. Have a clear vision that can be articulated well. The school community wants to know where you are taking them and how you will get them there. 

9. Have fun and be transparent. People want to know you are human and enjoy a good time too.

10. Always walk in excellence. Many obstacles will come against you as a school leader. I took many hits on a daily basis. I had to constantly remind myself to walk in excellence. Students and teachers are constantly watching leaders and how they respond. They will remember how you treat them and how you overcome adversity. 

Remember: "There are no good schools without good leaders." - Arne Duncan