"Leadership offers an opportunity to make a difference in someone's life, no matter what the project."
-Bill Owens
Support is a basic need. It communicates value, care, connectedness, and protection. It also helps build and strengthen relationships. It takes good communication skills, visibility, knowledge about budgeting, trusted peers and advisors, and a constant "finger on the pulse" to determine the kind of support that is needed at any given time (whether it be financial, emotional, material, physical, human, or moral).
This chapter allowed me to reflect on my experiences and expectations as a Curriculum Support Provider. Although my job can sometimes be viewed as a "Vice Principal" role, providing support is my number one priority. When I first arrived at my new school, I didn't know what to expect and didn't have a clear understanding of what my day-to-day routine would look like. My administrator outlined his overall expectations. He asked me to keep a "finger on the pulse" and to be as visible as possible. In fact, my job changes every day as new needs and priorities surface. On most days, I feel a lot like "Tyler, the assistant principal" in the "What Can I Get For You?" section of Chapter 2. I can't walk from Point A to Point B without checking in, saying hello, or following up with a staff member, student, or parent. I have tried to build trust and credibility by being visible, available, and approachable at all times. I have also made it a priority to learn and greet every student on campus by name, especially new students and families. I am hoping they feel welcome and supported, not only by their teacher, but by the support staff... because ultimately... that's what we're there to do... provide SUPPORT!
As a teacher on a VERY busy campus, I can honestly say that having a VP who shows care and support for the staff helps to make all the difference with teacher attitudes. When I see a VP walking around campus like you do...making themselves visible, saying hello to students and making sure everyone on campus knows that you are there to help, that makes the school admin so much more approachable! I'm sure your students and staff truly appreciate and value your support.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Vikki. As Clovis has restructured our admin teams this year, which has spread our VP between two schools, it is amazing to realize the effect the VP has on the morale, support, and efficiency of a school. Making yourself available affects the students and teachers more than you might realize in the moment. Atta girls are great to hear!
ReplyDeleteRespect and support are crucial to the jobs that we do, and in fact can be a two-way street. I remember one day last year when my daughter was really sick and I had to miss work...I went to school very early because there was something that really needed to be done for district benchmark testing that day. Two different teachers offered to help with what I was doing (even though it is a busy time for them as well) so that I could get home to my sick little one. It was such a kind gesture and I realized that being supportive and building relationships really do go a long way in building a team!
ReplyDeleteJesco223 shares great insight from the other side of the situation for me! Its good to know that when we as teachers extend a helping hand, it is truly appreciated! I have been fortunate enough to have worked for many GIS's (the Clovis version of a VP) over the years. My current site is now working with our 5th GIS within the last 6 years.... seems like a lot of turn over could result in a lot lost in translation, right? Not the case at Reagan! Communication and support has paved the way for each one of them!!
ReplyDeleteNew families and students are so important when making rounds in a school. My school continues to grow and we have to communicate our school and district expectations with them to earn their support. I try to point out my new students to my principals, just so they have that chance to connect to 1 more family.
ReplyDelete