Lead the Course

First and foremost, let me start by saying that in our profession we tend to view struggle as an obstacle. However, in order to move forward struggle is inevitable. Recently, there has been several articles and postings on Twitter about embracing mistakes, yet from the adult level we tend to talk this talk, but we don't walk the walk. As I reflect on my tenure as the lead learner in our building, it is important that I embrace things that go well as well as identify areas in need of improvement. Improvement overall, as well as my individual performance. There will be times that we all may not be on the same page and I know the struggle is part of the process. Their will always be naysayers that contribute to the struggle, but their voices should be heard as well. 

                                                                                                       

However, when we spend too much time focusing on the negative this can take charge of our emotions. I can be guilty of this too!  When we allow negativity to permeate our thoughts and actions it will hinder and slow the progress almost to the point where forward movement is inhibited, which could create a status-quo organization. As educators we must refuse to be status-quo. Even when those around us are spewing negativity, we can't allow that to deter our progress.The "energy vampires" attempt to take us off course because "the progress" creates discomfort, anxiety, the fear of leaving what was for what could be, and ultimately changes how they may have to perform at their craft. It's important that we continue to lead and attempt to fortify those relationships as well, but we can't get stuck stuck in the web of toxicity. When we do, we become no different always admiring the problems versus leading toward solutions. This is when progress is stalled and all we have is struggle. Too often we try to combat the negative, instead of leading through it. There is a reason people use the phrase "stay the course" when faced with adversity. We can't allow progress to be derailed by those who refuse to recognize the transformation taking place in education.

However, we can't just "stay the course"! Regardless of our title we must "lead the course", including those naysayers who attempt to take us off course. At the end of the day, the course always leads back to our students and no matter what our role is; that puts all of us on the same team. Our goal as educators, is to be persistent in creating the optimal learning environment for our students.To provide opportunities for success that are not only defined by raising standardized tests, by raising human potential as stated brilliantly by Dave Burgess:

We must learn not to get sidetracked and remember to recognize all accomplishments regardless of how big or small. In our building, I am so proud of the progress we have made with the number of teachers embracing the use of Google Classroom, project based learning, leveling instruction/assessments, co-teaching, the implementation of readers and writers's workshop, improved lesson planning and much more. These advances took people out of their comfort zone and caused a bit of struggle. However, the results are worth the struggle.  I'm most proud of the persistence our staff has displayed in attempting new strategies, in spite of continued state mandates that also attempt to take us "off course". I am proud to serve as their principal and look forward to continue to assist them "lead the course" as we continue to build a learning culture that is best for our students.

So, as the calendar changes to a new year I challenge all of you to "lead the course" whether it's a district, building, department, classroom, or team. Our students are counting on us, they are always counting on us.