Administrator Observations
One of the assignments in Leadership Academy was to observe/interview two different administrators - an administrator from within Northern Lights, as well as an administrator from another school division. Although I came prepared with a list of questions, some of the best discussion and observation came about organically as we talked about day-to-day tasks, special projects, and topics of interest in education.
Year 1 (Internal Observation): Jimmi-Lou Irvine - Iron River School, Iron River, AB
May 9, 2011
- discussion evolved from itinerary for the day, which included meeting with a carpenter to discuss the construction of an outdoor classroom (budget, maintenance, student use), special education duties, and general day-to-day tasks (student discipline for recess incident, interview for maternity leave position).
"Don't try to be something that you aren't. Use the skills and talents of your staff to fill in the gaps."
- discussion evolved from itinerary for the day, which included meeting with a carpenter to discuss the construction of an outdoor classroom (budget, maintenance, student use), special education duties, and general day-to-day tasks (student discipline for recess incident, interview for maternity leave position).
"Don't try to be something that you aren't. Use the skills and talents of your staff to fill in the gaps."
Year 2 (External Observation): Ken Pyra - St. Vincent School, Edmonton, AB
October 14, 2011
- itinerary involved a lengthy discussion of leadership qualities and aspirations as well as how the school is working on integrating technology to prepare students to be 21st century learners. Meeting with superintendent and head of maintenance about state of building and potential revenue for school renovations.
"Effective educators and administrators are reflective practitioners. 'Break down the four walls' - great leaders don't flourish in isolation."
- itinerary involved a lengthy discussion of leadership qualities and aspirations as well as how the school is working on integrating technology to prepare students to be 21st century learners. Meeting with superintendent and head of maintenance about state of building and potential revenue for school renovations.
"Effective educators and administrators are reflective practitioners. 'Break down the four walls' - great leaders don't flourish in isolation."