The topic of support from leadership is so important to the success of a school. Most of us have probably worked at a position (not just in education) where there was incredible support and great leadership and then in other places where those incredible experiences where not in place. I agree that is it important to have high levels of transparency - it allows everyone to "see" the whole picture and it promotes the open communication which reinforces the connectedness Hennsley referred to it in the chapter. The chapter discusses the importance of support in terms of new teachers and getting them connected and supported, but I believe it is equally important to those veteran teachers we rely on as well. Everyone wants to be connected and valued and that occurs when we feel we are supported, in the communication loop, and valued for our contributions.
With NCLB the stakes are getting higher and the required scores are getting harder to reach. As a result, it is even more important that teachers and staff feel their administrator values and supports them and stands behind them. I agree with Hennsley's comment that when teachers feel supported they reciprocate. This reciprocal support creates a positive climate and supports the overall school culture and student achievement.
I think some of the areas the chapter discusses to support teachers, such as providing materials, can be a tough challenge in this current budget situation. While we may not be able to provide all the "wants" we must strive to provide all the "needs". Sometimes even the "needs" are difficult to provide - this is were the communication piece is even more important. If we communicate the financial standing of the site budget and openly discuss options to meet the needs in other ways the teams feels included and is more apt to understand the reasons if those things take a little longer to obtain.
Christy,
ReplyDeleteYour last paragraph was so right on. In these times, the resources aren't there and we can't provide all the needs even as much as we'd love to. But by having open communication with the staff and letting them know the situation they can be a little more understanding. We are going to face tough times for a while so it's incredibly important that all budget issues are addressed across the school.
I agree with your statement, "Reciprocal support creates a positive attitude and supports the school cultural". When one feels valued they are ready to work for the school as a whole and not just their classroom! Great Blog Christy.
ReplyDeleteIt's obvious that you not only understand support but also walk the talk. Congratulations on the award of National Blue Ribbon School, Christy!
ReplyDeleteThis is a testament to your work as a leader in bringing together the work of many wonderful educators.
Congratulations!
Don
This chapter on support makes so much sense to me. Thank you for reminding me of the importance of not only supporting teachers by getting all resources that they need, but by just being an open ear and a friend that is just there and listening to whatever they need to say.
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