School adminostrators

"The most important thing I've learned about working with my school administrators in the past term/year is . . . "

Don't be afraid of them, keep them in the communication loop, and see them as an important part of your support network. We have 6 administrators at our high school and I see them all working very hard all of the time. I have respect for them and have always received helpful feedback from them. It can always be a little unnerving when you are called to their office and don't know why. Case in point was just this last week. I had a rough Monday. I gave a unit test to my 2nd year students and needless to say 15 students failed the test miserably. It was actually the first time I have had that many students fail a unit test of mine. I was very upset due to the fact that I told them this test would be harder due to the content (the endocrine system) and to be prepared for it. I reviewed the actual test questions with them, they had several opportunities in game format and worksheet format to match up hormones with glands. Well I tried to point out students who did well (I did not give out actual scores) and compare their study habits, study methods with those who did not do well. It quickly backfired on me and I realized (a little too late) that it was not the best way to handle the situation. The next day I was called to an assistant principal's office and told that a student complained about me stating that I embarrassed her in front of the class. I admitted immediately to him, without hesitation, that I did not handle the situation well. I described what had happened and told him my intentions but that it backfired on me. I asked him how best to rectify the situation and we discussed options. The conversation ended with him thanking me for being honest and not getting defensive right away. I was pleasant surprised for him to say that. I think they have to deal with so much negativity and defensiveness on both the part of the student and teacher that they appreciate it when individuals are honest, open, and willing to truly make corrections. They are not out there to blast us when we do the slightest thing wrong and they are not looking to accuse of being substandard. They truly understand how difficult it is dealing with students day in and day out and realize we all have good and bad days. I'm glad that I feel I have have very supportive administration.