As Kevin and I were driving home we discussed events that happened in class today. Believe me, we have had some interesting conversations during all of our rides home! I just wanted to share some of the things we have talked about.
1. The conversation and camaraderie in the class has been terrific. Everybody has had experiences that are valuable. Some have been good and others not so good. But, all conversation has been wrapped around learning. I think this is why we have also appreciated hearing John Closen's stories so much- They are REAL!
2. Everything we have done in class is applicable to our jobs now and our jobs in the future.
3. There has been a definite methodology to this class. We see things, hear things, and do things. All modes of learning are covered in class.
4. Many of us have learned how to manipulate data. We KNOW we have to test but did not know what or how to manipulate the data when our district got it back. Many did not know what happened to the information from the tests, unless they were told in conversations or meetings. Now we can figure things on our own. We can have a sense of direction upon receiving the data in the fall. If it is not given to us, we now know to ask for it.
5. I think we have a better understanding of school board policy.
6. The sense of wondering if you are "sinking or swimming" never goes away.
7. We all have to answer to someone else. It is easy to get into a bubble and think of it as "Us and Them", when it should be "We".
8. Being a good administrator involves being informed and being a communicator; not just being a figurehead.
9. To quote John, "Not everything is black or White. You have to be prepared and look at what might happen in the future. Look at the big picture.".
10. An administrator has to be visible, knowledgeable, and be thorough to be affective.
I could go on and on..... I think this has been an excellent class and have enjoyed meeting all of you!
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3 comments:
I think the thing I agree the most with is the statement that everything in this class has been directly related to being an administrator and has been knowledge that can be used on the job. There has not been any busy work and I know I really have learned alot and appreciated all that I am taking away from this class.
I can really relate to the idea that nothing is "black and white" often times teachers believe that decisions are black and white but do not take into consideration the many aspects that actually go into making any real decision that is going to affect a school district and have any real impact on the students. This was apparent with the future wheel that we did in class. Because at first what seems to be an easy decision does have a collateral affect on many other aspects of the administrator's, teacher's, parent's, and student's lives. I wish all teachers could take courses such as this so that they all better understand the amount of time and energy that goes into making every decision and that no one is out to get them. What we do is for the kids plain and simple and that should always be remebered by everyone who steps into a school building.
Dr. Closen has given so many real-life examples and ways in which to handle them. The activities that I participated in over the course of this class will be so important as I continue into my leadership role. I appreciate that there were not unneccesary hoop jumping activities that I would do because it was assigned and then never revisit again. This class has provided insight into my future role as a principal. It has also opened a window into my role as a teacher. Leadership requires a committment to forming partnerships in the quest for success in learning. I appreciate the knowledge and insight that I have gained in this class on my way to becoming a successful leader.
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