Principal's Principles # 1

I have been holding of on this blog post, seeing if I was going to "make it" or "survive" in the principal role. I guess if I don't start posting on this topic I never will. This is the start of a series of blog posts called Principal's Principles. The hope is to pass on knowledge being learned as a starting out principal.

Making Decisions

I believe that all decisions should be made according to the school policies. I have learned in the countries that I have worked in that not wavering or making exceptions is important. If you bend the rules once you will be expected to do it again. Making decisions under a time constraint is one of the biggest challenges you will face in leadership. In this case you need to gather as much evidence as you can from different sources as quickly as possible. You should then make your decision based on triangulating the evidence. If you are working in a Christian context, obviously you have another source to go to.

Filling the Bank (Deposits and Withdrawals)

We have to make tough decisions in leadership and often have to ask our staff to do things they may not want to do. It might be long term cover or working on a weekend. It is very important to, "fill the bank". This is done over a long period of time. Trust is built through every decision you make, every encouraging comment you give, every gift on a birthday, every pancake you bake. Fill the bank so that when you need to make a withdrawal, you are supported. Know that every negative comment, every gossip, every unprofessional act is a withdrawal.

Communicate

Communicate, communicate and communicate. As much open and honest communication as is appropriate. I believe this is best done by email. Never waste teachers' time with meetings that are not necessary. Each morning I send out an email with a list of upcoming events. If there is something that will really effect teachers such as a change to their routine, this needs to be communicated as far in advance as possible. An example of this would be a concert rehearsal. When teachers are well informed and part of what is happening, they are more supportive. We cannot spring things on teachers, unless you have a very full bank.

Face to Face Tough Talks

Do not shy away from or put off tough talks. If there is conflict you cannot put your head under the carpet and pretend it is not there. You need to address it and have the tough talk. An example of this would be two teachers who are having a disagreement. What to do here is meet with each individually, then set up a time where we meet together face to face. I like to use the philosophy of restorative practices to repair relationships with students and teachers alike. I would advise any school leader to learn more about this philosophy. I learned an excellent strategy from one of my staff members when dealing with an issue with a teacher who is also a parent. Have the teacher take off their "teacher hat" and put on their "parent hat" when having the discussion.

I hope this was useful. Part two will be coming soon, if there is interest.