When you become a school administrator, you can receive all the advice in the world, but nothing will equate to true experience in the field. Therefore, this list of 10 tips is not a full, comprehensive list, but more of a snapshot of thoughts and ideas that have benefited me as a fairly new administrator myself. I hope they can serve as a helpful guide to frame your thinking.
From these tips, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of point number 3: Lean into the challenges. To add onto this, as a new administrator, refrain from shying away from the people who seem to be challenging the systems the most. Lean in closer to these incredible individuals of thought. If we only hear what is easy to hear, we are missing out on true reflection that can help us forge new and meaningful paths ahead.
In addition, in all you do, remember that it is all about the PEOPLE. Your students, your teachers, your custodians, your special education teachers, your secretaries, your families, and so on. When making every decision, understand the impact that that decision has on all parties, not just one.
Lastly, keep in mind that your first year in your new position will be a growing year. Progress takes patience and patience is a virtue of leadership. On that same token, work hard to serve others, but also take the much needed time to care for yourself. This is something I continually struggle with but am making improvements in. I have had to continually remind myself to put the work down at night and to stop sending e-mails, so I can spend time with family, gain much-needed rest, and have other moments to dive into additional passions I have. Connect with others that can serve as your accountability partners when they see you becoming overly consumed with work. Self-care in leadership takes a village and you are too important to put yourself last.
Self-care in leadership takes a village and you are too important to put yourself last. Click To TweetThoughts from Other Educational Leaders:
As a new admin, this is the most ignorant you’ll ever be. It’s ok! People will overlook that if you serve with passion, hustle, and sincerity. It will take time to learn the job. You can demonstrate your character NOW.
— Justin Thomas, Ed.D. (@happyteacherguy) July 13, 2018
Make yourself available to ALL staff & let them know you want them to be successful. Remember everyone needs to be positively reinforced, even staff! If you notice someone doing a great job, tell them! Don’t forget to include your sped teachers. ❤️ #principalsinaction
— ⭐️ⓐ𝕄у вℝan𝔻𝕖ⓝ𝐛ᑌr𝕘⭐️ (@REDCARPETCLASS) July 13, 2018
What are other tips you have for new admins? Share below.
Honesty and humility were very important to me. I often wanted to be, but I needed to realize that I was not without faults, fears, and frustrations. I was honest with my staff from day one saying I would not be perfect. I would make mistakes. However, I would always make decisions in the best interest of our students. Finally, I listened. I listened to anyone and everyone that was willing to tell me their story. I had a goal to build strong relationships with all stakeholders. I knew that a positive culture and high expectations would support any new initiative or issue when they would inevitably arise.
Nick, I love that you told your staff from the beginning that you would make mistakes. We all will. Sometimes people make us believe that those in leadership positions are totally immune to failure or that they should avoid making mistakes. Making mistakes, while having your vision and heart in the right place, will still happen and it is important that we do as you say and model this vulnerability with those we serve.
It make me ease in my job so much and motivate me to put new ideas in educational leadership.May you be relax for ever with better contributions.
Thank you, Mamoon. Here is to another great school year!