Leadership Framework

When I think about my philosophy of education, I am constantly reminded of "Goals 2000" which set into law the National Education Goals. These goals tie into what I believe will make our schools the best and will prepare our future leaders for the challenges of the new millennium. While there have been many educational reforms over the years, these goals address all issues of education and have led to local standards which have proven successful. All children are capable of learning, given the right environment and appropriate educational placement. Educators should serve as role models for the younger generation, remain true to the field and remain "life-long" learners. By continuing educational pursuits, educators will be better prepared to effectively perform the function of teaching. The concept of life long learning serves as the foundation of preparing for the new millenium.

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Philosophy of Leadership

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There are many different leadership styles from which a principal can draw. Leadership is defined as the ability to motivate individuals and form a team that is committed to a cause. Included in this framework is the ability to effectively communicate, delegate, motivate and address issues with the competence and knowledge necessary to resolve problems. Referent power, the ability to draw respect from others through personal action will develop credibility and trustworthiness - two characteristics that constitute effective and purposeful leadership. By maintaining trust and credibility through daily activities as a principal, one will be viewed as an effective leader.

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Vision for Learners

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Today's learners are more diverse than ever before. More and more learners with different skills, knowledge and educational backgrounds are being served in the regular education classrooms. More students are at risk because of poverty, poor nutrition, health issues and other adversities. It is the responsibility of educators to be cognizant of these issues and strive to meet the varying needs of children to prepare them for the challenges of the future. Students must acquire the knowledge, master the skills and maximize individual talents through structured and unstructured methods of learning in order to become successful members of society. I believe that all children, despite their personal circumstances, can learn when they are provided adequate instruction and supervision in an environment that is safe and nurturing.

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Vision for Teachers

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Teaching is the quintessential profession - without well qualified, caring, committed men and women, education as we know it would cease. Teaching is the one profession that truly shapes America as we know it, and it is one that deserves our utmost respect. A teacher plays an indelible role in shaping the future of all children who are in his or her presence. A teacher is many things to many people - in addition to being the "teacher"; he/she is a caretaker, a listener, a disciplinarian, a counselor, a nurse, a friend, and a role model for students. Administrators should remain constantly aware of this fact and work to provide support for teachers when needed.

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Vision for the Organization

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• Community - A principal should always realize the community in which they serve. Community involvement is essential and paramount if any positive changes are to occur in a building. By involving the community, one earns the trust necessary to implement change.


• Climate - The climate of the school is one that should foster trust and cooperation among teachers, students and administrators. A sense of "community" will also enable a more positive climate and working on this climate should be a top priority of the principal.


• Collaboration - Open communication between the community and the campus personnel is essential for positive changes in a school building. School leaders should strive to maintain a positive relationship with community members, teachers, students and parents that will evolve in a natural collaborative environment.


• Communication - This component is the key to all of the above. A principal's most important job is communicating in order to set objectives, organize, motivate and make decisions. These all require communication skills, including the ability to perceive non-verbal communications and effectively interpret them. I feel that having strong communication skills is the backbone of being a successful principal.

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Vision for Professional Growth

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Being a lifelong learner has as an understanding that professional growth is a necessity to meet the challenges of the future. Both administrators and teachers should take professional growth seriously and strive to learn as much as possible to become better professionals in the field of education. Professional growth must be a priority in planning staff development and inservices.

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Method of Vision Attainment

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Shared decision making is essential for successfully implementing change. People support what they help to create and will work harder for a purpose in which they believe. Involving others in matters that affect them will foster a spirit of cooperation and collaboration. Change is a slow process and should be planned with that fact in mind. People must buy into changes, and must be willing to change or the changes will never be successful. By involving others and providing the necessary resources during the change process, the chances of the change being successful are more probable.

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[ Philosophy of Education | Philosophy of Leadership | Vision for Learners | Vision for Teachers | Vision for the Organization | Vision for Professional Growth | Method of Vision Attainment ]

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