Many years ago when I was a novice Assistant Principal in New York City, I attended a city wide meeting prior to the start of another school year. The Deputy Chancellor greeted us and wished us well on the upcoming school year. Once again our school budgets had been cut, our teaching staffs reduced, and our mandates increased. After a collective groan from my collegues, myself included, the Deputy Chancellor commented almost as an after thought, " You know, you guys could be your own worst enemies!"
He went on to explain that every year schools are expected to do more with less resources. Every year somehow we manage to pull a rabbit out of the hat and provide a meaningful education for our students. Sometimes that means that our teachers use their own monies to make up for a lack of supplies and equipment. Sometimes we shuffle monies from one fund to another or put off needed repairs to the infrastructure.
The question arises - do we provide less for our students, when times are tough, in order to make the point with the general public or do we continue to pull rabbits out of the hat?
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Education - It Ain't What It Used To Be
I have been doing this long enough to see the latest and greatest trends in education come around 2 or 3 times. Always under a different name and always with the same fanfare. It's as if every year the powers that be get amnesia and forget every new trend that has been tried in the past to improve some aspect of the educational process. Enough already!!
Lets concentrate on what we know works. Get the best people possible in front of the classroom. Give them the supplies and equipment they need to get the job done and provide the support and encouragement needed when they try something new.
One of my all time pet peeves is the new directive which arrives on your desk on the first Monday morning in September from Central Office stating the following:
Effective immediately, forget everything you've done in the past regarding instruction and from now on you will apply process "X" to your teaching strategy. It makes no difference whether or not what you've been doing in the classroom for the past 25 years has worked! Just use this latest and greatest way of teaching and you will be successful. Oh yeah, you are on your own to figure out how to apply this new process and or course you evaluation will depend on how well you implement this new directive!!
Once and for all, educating children is not the same as manufacturing widgets. Unlike widgets, children bring a host of different attributes to the table and a "once size fits all" approach to teaching is never, ever, going to work. No matter what new directive is issued, some strategies will work for some children and not for others. It's the role of the professional educator in the classroom to differentiate their strategies so that every child learns in a way that is appropriate for them. More difficult for the teacher, yes, but always more successful for the student.
Lets concentrate on what we know works. Get the best people possible in front of the classroom. Give them the supplies and equipment they need to get the job done and provide the support and encouragement needed when they try something new.
One of my all time pet peeves is the new directive which arrives on your desk on the first Monday morning in September from Central Office stating the following:
Effective immediately, forget everything you've done in the past regarding instruction and from now on you will apply process "X" to your teaching strategy. It makes no difference whether or not what you've been doing in the classroom for the past 25 years has worked! Just use this latest and greatest way of teaching and you will be successful. Oh yeah, you are on your own to figure out how to apply this new process and or course you evaluation will depend on how well you implement this new directive!!
Once and for all, educating children is not the same as manufacturing widgets. Unlike widgets, children bring a host of different attributes to the table and a "once size fits all" approach to teaching is never, ever, going to work. No matter what new directive is issued, some strategies will work for some children and not for others. It's the role of the professional educator in the classroom to differentiate their strategies so that every child learns in a way that is appropriate for them. More difficult for the teacher, yes, but always more successful for the student.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Where have you gone "Joe DiMaggio"
Well, I'm not Joe DiMaggio but I have been M.I.A. from this blog for some time now. The reason is very simple and something that many of you have experienced or will experience in the future. "Burnout" Years ago, as a new administrator I observed many of my senior colleagues experience this phenomenon. Individuals who always had a smile and a joke to share were now moody and short tempered. Administrators who were always present at extra curricular events were now nowhere to be found after the regular school day. Their attendance began to suffer and their attitude changed markedly.
As a neophyte, I couldn't understand how this was possible. Now I know first hand what this experience is like. About 2 years ago I began to notice that my patience with my fellow educators and parents was waining. I would get annoyed at things that I'd hardly noticed in the past. My blood pressure which was already controlled by medication was getting higher and it took me more time to relax once I finally got home. I explained all of these symptoms to my doctor on a regularly scheduled visit and this very learned man offered a simple explanation and solution. He told me I needed "asshole medicine". After my look of surprise I asked for an explanation. He very calmly explained that day after day people with no training in our profession feel an obligation to tell use how to do our job. For many years we are able to deflect these comments but after awhile they take their toll. I was clearly experiencing this condition.
So, after dealing with this situation for the past 2 years, successfully at times, and not so much at others, I have decided that I will retire shortly. As I have told my friends and fellow educators I thought that 35 years of doing anything was enough and it was time for a big change in my life. But don't worry. For those few readers who have enjoyed this blog, I will continue to write articles as I have much to share. Some of which could not be written while I'm still employed.
For the first time since I began Kindergarten as a student, over 50 years ago, I will not arise on the first day of the new school year this fall, eager for the experience to begin all over again. Instead, I will arise at my regular wake up time, look at my alarm clock, and go back to sleep.
Here's wishing each of you an outstanding new school year!
As a neophyte, I couldn't understand how this was possible. Now I know first hand what this experience is like. About 2 years ago I began to notice that my patience with my fellow educators and parents was waining. I would get annoyed at things that I'd hardly noticed in the past. My blood pressure which was already controlled by medication was getting higher and it took me more time to relax once I finally got home. I explained all of these symptoms to my doctor on a regularly scheduled visit and this very learned man offered a simple explanation and solution. He told me I needed "asshole medicine". After my look of surprise I asked for an explanation. He very calmly explained that day after day people with no training in our profession feel an obligation to tell use how to do our job. For many years we are able to deflect these comments but after awhile they take their toll. I was clearly experiencing this condition.
So, after dealing with this situation for the past 2 years, successfully at times, and not so much at others, I have decided that I will retire shortly. As I have told my friends and fellow educators I thought that 35 years of doing anything was enough and it was time for a big change in my life. But don't worry. For those few readers who have enjoyed this blog, I will continue to write articles as I have much to share. Some of which could not be written while I'm still employed.
For the first time since I began Kindergarten as a student, over 50 years ago, I will not arise on the first day of the new school year this fall, eager for the experience to begin all over again. Instead, I will arise at my regular wake up time, look at my alarm clock, and go back to sleep.
Here's wishing each of you an outstanding new school year!
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
In Support of Vocational Education
Let me begin by saying that I am an advocate for a strong Vocational & Technology Education program as part of the overall high school experience. A very good friend of mine just retired from a very successful, 34 year career as a high school Social Studies teacher. He is also a graduate of the equally well respected Brooklyn Vocational and Technical High School. A highly selective, exam only, public high school in New York City.
The ability to excel academically and success in the multitude of vocational and technology courses offered in our schools isn't mutually exclusive! Many of my colleagues make the mistake of looking down their nose at vocational courses as not being of the same rigor as advanced course offerings in science and math. If you've ever tried to fix your own computer, upgrade an electrical panel in your house, or calculate the proper diameter of a waste pipe, you might think otherwise.
For many students, the opportunity to work in the area of technology is rewarding and challenging. Participation in a vocational program in no way means less than participation in a traditional advanced "academic" program. I also think we should end the distinction of academic vs. vocational. If you've ever looked at a computer science or an electrical theory textbook, you'll understand that the distinction is mute.
It is especially important to advocate for technology programs during these times of fiscal restraint. Often times, vocational and technical programs are the first to be cut. This would be a terrible mistake. When you prepare your budget recommendations for next year take a second look at your vocational and technology programs. They are a strong component of the overall school experience and not just ancillary to your core course offerings.
The ability to excel academically and success in the multitude of vocational and technology courses offered in our schools isn't mutually exclusive! Many of my colleagues make the mistake of looking down their nose at vocational courses as not being of the same rigor as advanced course offerings in science and math. If you've ever tried to fix your own computer, upgrade an electrical panel in your house, or calculate the proper diameter of a waste pipe, you might think otherwise.
For many students, the opportunity to work in the area of technology is rewarding and challenging. Participation in a vocational program in no way means less than participation in a traditional advanced "academic" program. I also think we should end the distinction of academic vs. vocational. If you've ever looked at a computer science or an electrical theory textbook, you'll understand that the distinction is mute.
It is especially important to advocate for technology programs during these times of fiscal restraint. Often times, vocational and technical programs are the first to be cut. This would be a terrible mistake. When you prepare your budget recommendations for next year take a second look at your vocational and technology programs. They are a strong component of the overall school experience and not just ancillary to your core course offerings.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Writing a Blog is No Easy Task
As you probably have noticed I haven't updated this site in six months. My only excuse is a lack of focus. I never realized just how much work went into creating a new blog every week. I've developed a whole new level of respect for those writers who must create a well thought out news or human interest piece on a regular basis. It is truly a lot of work.
Every time I thought about writing for this site I came up with a dozen things to do instead. This doesn't bode well for my commitment to the writing process. In the future, I will try and do better.
The Principal Guy
Every time I thought about writing for this site I came up with a dozen things to do instead. This doesn't bode well for my commitment to the writing process. In the future, I will try and do better.
The Principal Guy
Monday, June 23, 2008
See You In September
The singer Brian Hyland popularized the song "See You In September" back in the 60's and the first 2 lines of the song summarize my sentiments exactly... "See you in September. See you, when the summer's through." I enjoyed writing this blog and look forward to continuing my posts after what I'm certain will be a very restful and rewarding vacation.
Best of luck to all my colleagues who are retiring. On behalf of children everywhere, thank you for your support throughout your career. Your contributions cannot be measured but their effects are profound and will impact our society forever. I wish you a very fulfilling retirement. For those of us who are continuing their administrative career, make sure you take a break this summer and recharge your batteries.
Lastly, best of luck to all the new graduates. May your life be full of happiness and success.
Sincerely,
The Principal-guy
Best of luck to all my colleagues who are retiring. On behalf of children everywhere, thank you for your support throughout your career. Your contributions cannot be measured but their effects are profound and will impact our society forever. I wish you a very fulfilling retirement. For those of us who are continuing their administrative career, make sure you take a break this summer and recharge your batteries.
Lastly, best of luck to all the new graduates. May your life be full of happiness and success.
Sincerely,
The Principal-guy
Thursday, June 5, 2008
A Few Words About Micro Managing Your Staff
Let me begin by saying that some of my best friends are Micro Managers. Having said that, I don't understand! I get the part about wanting to ensure that every task that your staff members undertake is done correctly. I also get the part about being in control. But how are your department supervisors and teachers supposed to take ownership of their little kingdoms when they think that you have them under a microscope and are second guessing them at every turn.
Contrary to popular belief, the opposite of micro managing is not anarchy! A senior administrator once told me "Never give any responsibility away that you don't already know inside and out." If you want your staff to buy into your goals for your school then you have to give them the opportunity to take ownership of their work. Being active participants in the decision making process is critical in turning observers into stakeholders. This will only happen when your staff members are given the chance to try out new techniques and learn from their successes and failures. By your remote monitoring of their activity you can hopefully keep the failures to a minimum.
Another point to consider is that we are supposed to be identifying and training future administrators. I don't see how you can do that if you don't give your staff the opportunity to take a leadership role and make some decisions on their own. Just remember that the title Principal is an abbreviation for Principal Teacher. How successful would a teacher be if they did everything for their students and didn't give them a chance to work on their own?
Contrary to popular belief, the opposite of micro managing is not anarchy! A senior administrator once told me "Never give any responsibility away that you don't already know inside and out." If you want your staff to buy into your goals for your school then you have to give them the opportunity to take ownership of their work. Being active participants in the decision making process is critical in turning observers into stakeholders. This will only happen when your staff members are given the chance to try out new techniques and learn from their successes and failures. By your remote monitoring of their activity you can hopefully keep the failures to a minimum.
Another point to consider is that we are supposed to be identifying and training future administrators. I don't see how you can do that if you don't give your staff the opportunity to take a leadership role and make some decisions on their own. Just remember that the title Principal is an abbreviation for Principal Teacher. How successful would a teacher be if they did everything for their students and didn't give them a chance to work on their own?
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