Reflection - October 22 class

Being an Activities Director at a high school for the last five years, I feel fortunate to have been privy to many of the processes discussed at Saturday's class.  I am part of the management team of my school and attend weekly administrative cabinet meetings.  I haven't been in charge of writing a staff discriplinary letter, or suspend a student, but I have been able to closely watch these processes.  I know that when I do have to participate in these processes or lead them myself that here are departments and district staff that are there to assist.

One of the most important lessons I've learned and was reiterated on Saturday is to follow the procedures put into place.  There are difficult situations that will arise, but if we follow the procedures, we will put ourselves into a much better position if we are every questioned about the action taken or not taken.  Kevin Torosian talked about how few times expulsion appeals won on his watch.  This is becuase he was a stickler for procedure and followed the policies already in place.

Dr. Hauser's presentation on running effective meetings is an invaluable tool.  It seems that when I do have extra time to work on something I don't always have the energy and vice versa.  It is imperative that we use our timely wisely and run effective meetings.  This is one of the Leadership Connectors and helps build trust with your staff.  They will be reassured that when you call a meeting there is a purpose and the desired outcome will be clearly communicated.  This is a good teaching strategy and definitely transfers to a good management strategy.