Friday, May 12, 2017

Knowing when to let go...

I recently read a brief article from my ASCD Update about "The Art of the 'Mic Drop'."
It was a reflection from an assistant principal that was looking back on how he had coached/led his teachers this past year. It talked about his observations on how highly effective teams interact and what was his perceived role of administrative leadership in regards to those team interactions.

The over-arching idea was knowing when to step away and let teams "do their thing" and not interrupt ideas/actions for solving pressing issues. Through "dropping the mic" and walking away with the hope that it builds a culture where educators listen to understand rather than respond.

This summer you will be attending trainings, possibly reading books/blogs and reflecting on how you may change your approach for the upcoming year that will inspire you to try new things both as a team and as an individual educator. My hope is that John and I will provide you the supports to take the risks to step beyond "what we have always done."

John an I have many goals for ourselves moving forward into our second year as your instructional leaders. With those goals in mind we know we will:

  • Work to be clear with teams about expectations and next steps.
  • Be more available to support the work and purposeful in following up with teams on the progress.
  • Provide tools for efficient collaboration, including agendas and data analysis platforms via digital systems that allow for virtual and/or face to face collaboration.
Putting some structures in place and at the same time stepping back and letting go provides that level of trust in you all, our team, to get it done without micromanagement. 

We are attempting to master the art of knowing when we need to be front and center with the mic and when we need to let go, get up and get out of the way... essentially 'drop the mic.'

What are some ways you would like to see us support you this upcoming year? How can we encourage you to take risks, find solutions and at the same time stay out of your way? 

3 comments:

  1. I love it when either of you come into the classroom to say hi to the kids. Come down during our work period and talk to them about what they are doing. Let the kids know someone else besides their teacher thinks what they are doing is important.

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  2. I also love having you both in the classroom. The kids love to showcase their learning. I would love feedback about things you think are good or things you wonder about after being in my classroom too. I love feedback!

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  3. I really like that you and John are available. When I need something you are both always available to talk and help out with any situation. It really helps me to feel supported and valued.

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