TL;DR Perspective is an important part of problem-solving. Changing your perspective is not always easy. You can learn a lot when you take the time to change your perspective. Our family takes big vacations during the summer. We snorkel, climb mountains, and hike through the woods. Our family explores the many different landscapes within the United States. We experience new … Read More
Hispanic Heritage Month
TL;DR: Hispanic Heritage Month can be a time where we reflect on how we highlight certain communities in our learning spaces. Ask students which terms they prefer and why. Involve families as you celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. Analyze classroom materials to ensure they don’t project a problematic narrative or bias. Enlist the support of your teammates and leadership teams to help … Read More
Common Leadership Pitfalls for Beginning Administrators
TL;DR Districts should have an onboarding process that includes coaching and support for beginning administrators. Develop a plan and don’t let email become a distraction to your role as a district administrator. Use time blocking to become more disciplined and focus on the district’s priorities. Onboarding Needed When educators begin working in the district office, there are several common pitfalls … Read More
Delighting in Inclusion
TL;DR: Melinda Arnost is an educator, author/illustrator, and inclusion specialist. She was recently a guest on the Good News, Brad News Podcast. Her advocacy for inclusion started in high school inviting other students to join their Breakfast Club. As a teacher, Melinda trusted her gut and started teaching outside of the box in order to meet the needs of students. … Read More
Outward Focused Leadership
TL;DR: It is common for educators in newly appointed leadership roles to share more about them than learn about the people they serve. They typically have an “Inward Focus.” As classroom teachers, the beginning of the school year tends to focus on students. They typically have an “Outward Focus.” Educators transitioning from teaching to administration should apply the same leadership … Read More