I thought of myself as a small fish

I can remember early in my teaching careerthinking there was no way I would ever want to be a principal.

I had no idea how the principal managed tohave all the right answers, could make the teachers happy, could make theparents happy, and have students excited to come to school.  As I progressed in my career, I realized thatthe principal doesn’t always have the answers and does not pleaseeveryone.  It was a humbling moment whenI realized the principal is a person, but the principal is a person who seesthe potential everyone brings to the room and uses it to be successful.  I realized the power of being a leader wasinside of me.

For most of my life I have thought ofmyself as a small fish in a big pond, the idea that I am one of many.  This concept has helped me to see that attimes everyone can be a leader and everyone can be a follower.  Being a leader means knowing your strengthsand weakness and the strengths and weakness of those around you.  While the leader is representing everyone, itis the power of everyone working together that makes the group strong.  I can proudly say that I am one of many. Anticipated OutcomesBeing a leader in education means lookingat all facets of the school, students, teachers, faculty, parents, andcommunity.

Being here so those aroundme are advancing.  Helping people tobecome a leader as well and using the strengths that people have to propelothers to success.  Importance ofrelationships in success. Working as a mentor. Helping people to achieve their own goals through support and guidance.

Embracing the idea of being a life-longlearner.  This is the model for everyonein the school system.  Using each day asan opportunity to learn something new. Idea of education being a stepping stoneto life.  Education is the back bone ofthe working community.  An educationshould give students the tools to be productive members of society as adults.              Relationshipsare the foundation for an excellent school.

These relationships should be built in a way that enhances everyoneinvolved, students, teachers, parents, the community, etc. Studentlearning & community of learners. Focus on students gaining knowledge through the use of many and not limitinghow someone can learn.  Communication. Sharing and collaborating to ensure success.   Learning in innovative, self-motivated ways that aren’t traditional, but rather personal.

Using technology to enhance the classroom andfully engaged in the online world. Teaching students to look at school in different ways that may not beconsidered traditional.  Working to builda foundation that focuses on everyone involved to make the experience personal