The most important thing I've learned about working with my school administrators in the past year is they don't know what you need unless you tell them. I have learned that administrators are busy people with a million things to do. If I feel that something is very important and my administrators should know, I bring it to their attention. If they do not know, then they can not help me. I especially noticed this when our CTAE program was being reviewed. I had several questions, and asking my administrator helped her realize that the teachers needed more information to ensure a positive review. It is sometimes hard to "put yourself in someone else's shoes," and talking to administrators about our concerns helps them step into our shoes. It helps to remember that administrators can't read our minds, and they usually want us to bring our concerns to them. If you have something to say, say it (politely).
Hi Riley, I agree that administration doesn't know what you need until it is voiced. I also try to remember to consider something that I tell my own children. "Don't just complain, give me some possible solutions to your problem." In other words, anyone can complain about their issues, but when a complaint (concern) is coupled with, here are some potential solutions, that goes a long way in showing that we are concerned but willing to work to get something right. I also agree that adm. are very busy! It's easier to discuss something calmly and with a bit of time to spare rather than going to them with something that needs to be addressed NOW. And even with that, go in with all your facts in order. It's good to be a teacher, and even better to NOT be an administrator, HA!
ReplyDeleteI agree with you because many times we just feel that they should know what we need. A believe that we think in the why that the admin must have forget how it is to be in the classroom from day to day.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you completely. Many of our administrators came from other fields. They would have no idea what we need unless told. I stay away from complainers, and look for answers. Our administrations do the same, these peoples plates are full. If we take the time to find answers, we can work together for a resolution. We ask our students to do these exercises constantly, how can we teach what we do not follow?
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