The last day of the first year has come to an end. It was an intense year to say the least. I think I have learned more about where my limits are and how I work best this year than in any previous year. That being said, it was very humbling, knowing that after almost 20 years in a classroom and at various levels of leadership, I am essentially a trainee again. I think I learned a lot, but at the same time I wasn’t able to learn in the way I have in the past, time is taken up so much more often with minor day-to-day fires that require immediate attention. I know that is the role, especially as an AP, but it does stretch you thin and has a massive impact on how well you can develop and implement bigger picture plans and goals.
The work ahead is exciting and fun, but still very daunting. I was able to develop and get a new timetable off the ground for next year, this was a great project that really challenge my creativity, but will require ongoing support and management throughout next year. I was also able to put together the first steps of a model for curriculum review and development that we can begin to roll out next year, but again, it requires time that is not always available.
The challenges weren’t where I expected, I think I was able to start developing the relationships necessary to put many of these new programs in place, and starting to develop the trust within the faculty and amongst the other APs necessary to make the changes. The challenge was balancing being a Dad in the same school as my kids. I’m struggling with this, I feel bad that I am struggling but I am and it isn’t going away anytime soon. This is a challenge without an immediate solution, so I am going to have to keep working on my approach and adjust my expectations as we all grow into the school together.
Learning to Lead 