One of my favorite lines in this book is
but his true power derives from his ability to make other people powerful. This is exactly what I think leadership is all about. I am the second grade team leader and have been for the last 9 years. My principal puts a great deal of responsibility on his team leaders and has very high expectations. He believes in a shared leadership philosophy. I often look around and wonder why or who has given some team leaders the attitude of
I am in charge. I will decide what information is shared or not. That doesn't make sense to me. I feel that I am meant to represent my team. I also believe that it is my responsibility to share the strengths and successes that my team (of 8 teachers) has with my boss. We have an elementary school with over 1,000 students and only 1 principal and 1 assistant principal. How can he know everything at all times? It is my job to build my team up and ensure that he is aware of their value. I also feel strongly about highlighting the positives about each team member. The more a person feels valued the more they are willing to go the extra mile for the team, for the school, and most importantly for the children.
That makes me think of the other line that I love that being,
I began to shift my attention to how effective I was at enabling the musicians to play each phrase as beautifully as they were capable. This is such a powerful statement. What a different world we would live in if we only allowed each person to shine and grow, and if we only believed that they could.
Trina-
ReplyDeleteI love your thoughts on enabling your teammates to shine. If we want all teachers to be successful, even those we may disagree with or know can do a better job, then we need to show them they are important. Everyone has at least one thing that makes them wonderful. Why can’t we use that as a starting point? I’m very pleased that in your “way too big” elementary who have found a way help your team “shine and grow”.
@ Trina
ReplyDeleteLeadership is a very important element in a successful school. I must agree that the leaders objective is to ensure that the followers, or members of a body do the job that is intended, and fill the place that it needs to fill. Often more than not, students find themselves trying to fit in another person’s shoes.
By that I mean, leaders can help to acknowledge talents and abilities, and help students to build on those, rather than delegate based upon what the leader solely thinks. Not exactly leading by following, more so leading by guiding.
The second point you brought up is true. Allowing a student to realize the light that exists inside, and to ensure that it never goes dim, that is the responsibility of the leader.
Interesting observations and connection with the reading. Leadership is so fascinating.
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