Spring is a time of renewal, refocus and energizes everyone after a long cold, winter. In schools, spring is also a tremendously busy time as leaders are working hard to finish strong in the current year but also must focus intentionally on topics for the next school year.
Leaders must always find the right balance within the work and this is ever more important in spring. But what is this “focus”. It essential that leaders not focus on doing things right, but focus on doing the right things.
The right work may differ to some extent within a school/district and it may vary to some extent for a person based upon their level of experience. Overall, doing the right work should involve:
- Getting into classrooms to see the teaching and learning experiences. This allows the leaders to continue to support the teachers and understand what barriers exist within their day.
- Working with teachers to grow within their role, provide feedback and celebrate wins.
- Leaders must also be visible at school events and within the school day.
- Leaders must plan and deliver quality PD that is personalized for staff, supports the school goals and district vision.
- Communicate to the school community clearly on the progress of the school and its next steps.
- Find time to reflect and adjust upon the work of the school. This is same for the leader as a person and within their profession.
- Continue to build upon existing relationships and create positive school culture
- Get feedback from students, staff and parents about the school journey and involve them in decisions for change
To continue to do this right work – what factors allow leaders to balance doing the right work but also complete necessary mandates, deadlines during the busiest of times? Here are 6 keys that allows leaders to focus on the right work.
- Be honest with your limitations – involve others
- Stay positive and build connections
- Be organized and look ahead for upcoming tasks
- Lean on others and stay connected with colleagues
- Keep kids as the center of our decisions
- Patience-Calm-flexibility
We each must face decisions daily how we spend our time and what we focus on. Our actions, words, behaviors have significant impact upon those within our schools and their days.
I look forward to hearing from you about your thoughts on how you make decisions and what you focus on as a leader. Comment below or reach out to me at leadlearnerperspectives@gmail.com
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