In Chapters 1-6, Hensley and Burmeister introduced and explored six key leadership connectors:
1) Communication
2) Support
3) Safety
4) Competence
5) Continuous Renewal
6) Trust
In Chapter 7, they include their "best wishes" for all current and future educational leaders: "What we wish for you is that you have been helped by reading this book, that you have had the chance to reflect on what you, as a leader, are doing, and, at the same time, you have been affirmed by all the good things you are doing. We celebrate you and your desire to continually renew yourself."
The book ends with a look at a high school principal's retirement dinner... a principal who we met at the beginning of his 35-year career. As I read through the chapter, I found myself wondering what my 35-year journey will look like. Well, it will be more of a 43-year career if I am even able to retire at the age of 65. This was a lot like writing my own obituary... or thinking about what people might say at my funeral someday. Several questions came to mind... How many years will I continue as a CSP? When will I become an administrator? Will I stay in my current district or will I pursue a position somewhere else? Will I end up at a school site, administrative office, college campus, publishing company, legislative office, or somewhere else? There are so many exciting unknowns, but the message is clear. No matter where I go... or what I choose to do... it's always about building and maintaining relationships.
"If ever there's a tomorrow when we're not together
There's something you must remember...
You're braver than you believe and stronger than you seem,
And smarter than you think, but the most important thing
Is even if we're apart, I'll always be with you."
-Christopher Robin to Pooh (From Pooh's Great Adventure)
That Christopher Robin. What a clever kid. I have thought about my future career timeline, too. One reason I pursued my MA was so I would have another option to teaching for 40 years or so, but now that I almost have that MA, I think...so I'll be an admin for 40+ years?! The great part of life is the surprises and the people along the way. I have been blessed to have teachers and admin support me along my journey so far. As long as I continue to have that support, I'll be alright.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great way to wrap up this book, Theresa. I look forward to encouraging you as you continue on your journey into administration, or wherever your professional career take you. I am a better educator for having had the opportunity to collaborate with you. :-)
ReplyDeleteWalt may disagree with me on this, but we need you as a leader. He wouldn't disagree on that. But, you must do what your heart tells you. If that's to be the best teacher or the best CSP, so be it. You're still serving the kids of this nation.
ReplyDeleteWonderful reflections. Closing the book reflections with Christopher Robin was perfect!