Before we dive into this latest blog post, I want you to think about the top three things that are the most important in your leadership and will make the biggest impact on your life, your school, and your leadership. I know it isn’t paper work or admin tasks that are at the top of your list…but it might feel like that is what is eating up all of your time…
I am almost certain that the students and teachers were at the top of your list. Being with the people, building relationships, and learning alongside will make the biggest impact and will also rejuvenate your passion and purpose because you are visibly working and learning alongside them.
Let me tell you a story of how I had to find out the hard way about the way I was spending my time. I eventually became a principal who realized the power of relationship through simple actions. But it took me awhile…Let me paint a picture for you – a story of how I rediscovered the heartbeat of our school through the power of relationships. I was a seasoned administrator who, like many of you, found myself drowning in administrative tasks and feeling disconnected from the very heart of our school – the students and teachers.
I realized I needed a change. I took a step back and reflected on what truly mattered to me- and at the top of that list were our students and teachers. Yet, ironically, I was hardly spending any time with them.
So, I made a bold decision. I blocked out time each day in my calendar to prioritize being visible. I started small, simply making sure I was present in the hallways during transition times. Those 15-second conversations with students became the building blocks of relationships. Teachers noticed my support and presence, and they welcomed the extra hand during busy times.
But I didn’t stop there. I carved out an hour each day to visit classrooms, not as an observer, but as a fellow learner. I sat with students, engaged in discussions, and even started team-teaching alongside teachers. It was a transformational experience for everyone involved.
Next, I opened up my office as a hub of celebration. Inviting students in to share their work, I plastered their faces with stickers, a symbol of recognition and encouragement. Soon, my office walls were adorned with the vibrant creations of my students, and a bulletin board showcased their achievements for all to see.
As students proudly wore their stickers and peers admired the bulletin board, a culture of celebration and recognition flourished. Teachers began sending more students my way, eager to share in the excitement of being celebrated.
For me, this shift wasn’t just about checking off a task list; it was about rekindling my passion and purpose as a principal. By prioritizing people over paperwork, I found that my workload felt lighter, my energy soared, and my sense of purpose was reignited.
So, I invite you to take a page from hard knock lessons playbook that took me waaay too long to figure out. Prioritize people first, and watch as everything else falls into place. It’s not about adding more to your plate; it’s about making room for what truly matters – the connections that make our schools thrive.
Now let’s unpack this and break it down into steps because you know I love a good roadmap.
Step 1: Regular Presence in Student Areas
Picture this: You, strolling through the hallways, popping into classrooms, and even joining in on the fun during recess. It’s not just about being seen; it’s about being present.
- Schedule “Visibility Walks”: Dedicate specific times in your calendar for walks through the hallways, cafeteria, and playground. Engage with students during these walks, whether it’s a quick chat or joining in on a game.
- Pop into Classrooms: Take the opportunity to visit classrooms regularly. This not only shows support for teachers but also allows you to interact with students in their learning environment.
- Be Approachable and Brand Yourself: Smile, make eye contact, and greet students warmly. Show genuine interest in their activities and accomplishments. Even small gestures like high-fives or fist bumps can go a long way in building rapport. Branding yourself as a principal means crafting a unique identity that sets you apart and leaves a lasting impression. It’s about finding your signature style and showcasing it in everything you do. Whether you’re known for your sense of humor, like using a fart machine or playing pranks, or you have a knack for creativity or innovation, your brand is what makes you memorable to students, teachers, and the entire school community. Embrace your quirks, lean into your strengths, and let your personality shine through in all your interactions. When you brand yourself authentically, you not only build stronger connections but also create a school culture that reflects your values and inspires others to do the same.”In the dynamic landscape of education, branding yourself as a principal is about more than just a title—it’s about crafting a distinct persona that resonates with your school community. Picture Principal Sarah, known for her infectious enthusiasm and innovative teaching methods, or Principal James, whose dedication to student empowerment and community involvement is legendary. Then there’s Principal Maria, whose love for the arts infuses creativity into every aspect of school life, or Principal David, whose tech-savvy approach and commitment to digital literacy have transformed learning in the classroom. These principals have each carved out their own unique brand, whether it’s through humor, creativity, innovation, or community engagement. By authentically showcasing their passions and values, they’ve not only built stronger connections with students, teachers, and parents but also created vibrant, thriving school communities that reflect their vision for education. So, what’s your brand? Embrace it, celebrate it, and watch as your school community rallies around the authentic leader you are.
Step 2: Student Leadership Involvement
Empowering students to take on leadership roles not only benefits them but also strengthens your relationship with the student body.
- Establish Student Councils or Leadership Programs: Provide opportunities for students to have a voice in school decision-making processes. Encourage them to take on responsibilities such as organizing events or leading initiatives. In my school, we have a podcast that is written, directed, and recorded by students for students. It is called Even If You Miss…and it is available on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
- Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular meetings with student leaders to discuss their ideas, concerns, and suggestions. This shows that you value their input and are committed to working together to make positive changes.
- Recognize and Celebrate: Acknowledge the efforts and contributions of student leaders publicly. Whether it’s through shout-outs during assemblies or certificates of appreciation, let them know their efforts are noticed and appreciated.
Step 3: School-Wide Programs for Relationship
Building Creating school-wide programs focused on relationship building fosters a sense of community and belonging.
- Mentorship Programs: Pair older students with younger ones to provide guidance, support, and friendship.
- Principal’s Breakfast Events: Host small group sessions where students have the opportunity to share their thoughts, ideas, and experiences directly with you.
- Celebrate Your Students: Organize events and activities that celebrate the diverse backgrounds and talents of your students. We hold a talent show every year and do monthly recognition assemblies.
I know what you may be thinking…where will I find the time for this. The truth is, you have to make the time, through prioritizing relationships over paper work. Start small and scale as you go. It will start to build naturally and soon it becomes engrained in your day and less as one more thing to do.
Remember, building relationships with your students is an ongoing process. Be consistent, genuine, and proactive in your efforts, and you’ll create a school environment where every student feels valued, supported, and inspired to succeed.
Here is a free schoolwide Survivor challenge that our school loves. It is a huge relationship builder! Download it here for free now!
Have you joined our private facebook group called Principals and Leadership yet?
Even If You Miss..... 