I have read lots of good books lately and I am trying to put it all together. Every time I read another book, I have a slightly new perspective on leadership and on life. Up this week, The Speed of Trust.
I find that often the most difficult part of my job as an administrator is not working with the kids, but working with adults, specifically teachers. It's been about 7 years now since I was in the classroom teaching math. I remember some of the challenges I faced - trying to motivate the unmotivated, continuous directives from above, and those "clueless" administrators. Of course, now I have a different perspective. It reminds me of what thought about my parents when I was young (uncool, out-of-touch, etc.) and what I know about their wisdom now.
I must admit, right now, I have wonderful relationships with most if not all my teachers. But it is hard work. I am constantly working on my relationships with each one of my staff members. One interesting dynamic -I am one of 4 males out about 90 people on campus. That doesn't matter, does it ? :) I believe relationships is one of the main themes that I read about in each book (It's definitely a part of FILA). It's not about the managing of stuff, it's about getting to know people - even if they are trolls.
For example, I have a few teachers that have been teaching since around 1863. Change is not in their vocabulary. The phrase "moving a mountain" comes to mind. They often appear unmotivated by new ideas and advances in technology. However, underneath that pink dress from the 60's and the blouse with the sewn on butterflies, is a person with heart. It is my job to get through to that heart and to find what inspires and motivates her.
So that's what I have been doing. I have been going into classrooms after school and just sitting and talking with my teachers - no particular topic - just whatever is on their mind. Maybe its the grandchildren or a recent death in the family. Maybe it is about the latest crossword puzzle or about what happened at church. What Bolman and Deal, Pink, and Sergiovanni write about is true. People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care.
Let's keep working on building those relationships!
Well, I think my next book will be Three Billy Goats Gruff.
Hey, I made it to your blog. You know, the one you so aptly advertised this afternoon. Shout out to ya, there fella.
ReplyDeleteI agree that all relationships worth having take lots of work, constant work.
I had to chuckle at your remark about teachers that have been around since 1863. You see, young Grasshopper, we saw mountains move when the glaciers scraped them away. It was very painful, yet mountains can move. Even the wise ones who have seen it all and lived through the invention of the pendulum, including its swings.
You are wise to take time and listen, just to be there will make a difference. All most people want is to be valued and listened to. They will follow you to the ends of the earth--or the next ice age.
TEST POST
ReplyDeleteKeith, you make some great points. I think my first reaction to those that don't want to change is one of frustration. However, it is important to continue to encourage and build relationships with those teachers and students that refuse to change. In addition, it is important to make an effort to discover why they don't want to change. Sometimes they have some good reasons. Good post!!
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