I used to love when prospective principals would call me and ask for interview advice. I would always share a very critical lesson that I learned as I moved on I’m my career. I would always tell them to give them all of your self in your interview because they want the right person more than anything else. Now it’s time to take my own advice.
I remember the first years of my first two principal positions. They were rough in different ways. My first principalship was tough for obvious reasons but over time I learned that the board chose me for my leadership philosophy and ability, not for my technical knowledge. The more I grew in that position, I found that I fit better than I thought.
My second principalship started out as a tremendous struggle with more challenges than any year dealing with COVID. I had experience, but I was always backpedaling with behavior issues and the transition from high school to junior high. Over time, I saw that I was a better fit than I realized and I was chosen for my personal characteristics and not for any technical knowledge I might have.
I am in my first year of my first superintendency and I can tell you that those first year feelings are back again. There are lots of technical challenges because well, it’s my first year. I’ve let those challenges dominate the personal qualities that made me a good fit for the position. I really like my new school and the kids have been great. The staff is determined to be the best they can for kids. I’m starting to see where my leadership style and character is beginning to take precedence over the struggle of technical challenges.
It’s time to take my own advice. My board selected me for my fit in the position and the potential for me to make an impact on the district. I can’t be disparaged or caught up in the administrivia that comes with the job. Deadlines are important, but the people that depend on you should be riding shotgun.
