Inspiration for Teachers #2 ... Praise with our Prayers

In the midst of uncertain times, prayer and praise really do make a difference. Just knowing that God hears and cares about what is going on in our lives is reassuring. Sometimes I have to remind myself that I know the creator, savior, and sustainer of everything known, and even unknown. The Bible teaches that He is omniscient (all-knowing), omnipotent (all-powerful), and omnipresent (everywhere). I can thank Him for who He is no matter my circumstance. I can even thank Him for the work He is doing in my life as I walk through a trial. 

For those of us in education, who knows what lies ahead? I sure don't, but I believe God does. COVID19 did not take Him by surprise! None of us are immune from hard times or difficult days, yet God will be an ever-present help and hope in times of trouble. David, who faced his own share of uncertainty and one giant-of-a-problem, reminded us of this in his Psalms. Then later a teacher named Paul wrote the following while wrongly imprisoned …

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

-Philippians 4: 6-7 NLT

I heard this song performed live last week, and it seemed to be just what I needed to hear during this season of uncertainty. Be encouraged!

Inspiration for Teachers #1 ... Teachers, Be Encouraged!

I wanted to share a brief word to support and encourage teachers, especially now as they navigate some very unique and demanding COVID restrictions/expectations while either teaching virtually, in a blended or hybrid model, or fully in person.  

My wife is a teacher, my daughter is a teacher, and I’m blessed to work in a school full of amazing teachers.  I love teachers!  Teachers are the backbone of all schools.  Someone once said “Tell me a profession more important than teaching, and I will ask, what if those in that profession had been poorly taught!”

If you are a teacher, I want to say THANK YOU!  Thank you for answering the call to teach, because I truly believe teaching is a calling … especially this year.  Thank you for investing your time, your talents, your creativity, and even your own money into creating an environment where kids can be themselves, take risks, trust, and learn.  Thank you for the early mornings and late nights of planning engaging lessons, the extra duty and cleaning, for grading and offering feedback, for zooming and looming, for coaching a team, for sponsoring a club, and for managing not only your mask and distance, but those of your students … all to not just make a paycheck, but to make a difference.  

An amazing second-career teacher named Paul wrote the following in my favorite book.  Don’t get tired of helping others. You will be rewarded when the time is right, if you don’t give up.  (Gal. 6:9)

May God encourage, protect, and bless all of our teachers!

The Struggle makes you Stronger!

In 1989, I began my career teaching 5 lower-level math classes offered in 8th grade at our school.  Through my first-year frustration, struggle, and inexperience I learned to scaffold, create real world applications, differentiate, build relationships, and most importantly ... that every child could learn!  I also began to understand the benefit of earning the trust of parents, my experienced (and older) math team, and my administration.  Who knew this struggle would become the foundation of what I believed about teaching?

In the fall of 1994 I began directing the alternative school serving 3 high schools in 2 school districts ... specifically for dropout prevention due to attendance or behavioral issues.  Our students had already forfeited their opportunity at their home schools and had one last chance with us.  What seemed like a temporary stop on their road to educational failure turned out to be the second chance for most that made the difference toward eventually gaining a diploma.  I learned the redeeming value of second chances, the unwavering commitment of teachers who chose to teach there, and that a lack of resources was no match for an unconditional love for kids ... no matter their past or current situation.  Who knew this struggle would become the foundation of what I believed about seeing kids not just for who they are, but what they could become?

In 1995 I became an AP at the seventh largest high school in SC.  Most of the teachers were more experienced than me ... many the age of my parents.  I was so excited for this opportunity, yet extremely anxious about gaining the confidence of the staff ... and validating the trust of our principal for hiring me.  What I learned in a hurry was that actions speak louder than words, consistency and fairness are vital, listening (not talking) promotes learning, power is a privilege that must be polite, and the trust I sought must be earned ... not demanded.  Who knew this struggle would become my foundational beliefs about the principalship?

In 2014 I was extremely fortunate to open a brand new elementary school ... my first principalship! Without any prior experience as "the leader" or with opening a new school, I again was incredibly excited, yet cautiously fearful of failure.  I quickly learned that the physical (and emotional) safety of all is job #1.  Job #2 is to hire teachers that love kids, have a passion for teaching, and are great teammates.  Next, careful and strategic placement of students (with teachers) is critical to maximizing their strengths and managing their weaknesses ... both instructionally and behaviorally.  Finally, I learned to share credit for our successes and own blame for any failures.  Who knew this struggle would teach me so many valuable lessons about leadership, others, and myself?

Our struggles really do serve to make us stronger!

No Parent Left Behind

The development of trusting relationships with parents must be intentional, and can significantly enhance their student's success.  Following are 13 practical and invitational tips for teachers and administrators (that I have used or abused over the years as an educator and parent :-) to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of parent conferences.

1. Meet with the parent at their convenience if at all possible.
• Try to respect the schedules of waiting or working parents when feasible. 
2. Avoid assuming the outcome of the meeting before it ever takes place.
• Often negative and/or past experiences can cloud our judgement or unfairly lower our expectations. 
3. Be prepared for the conference.
• Know the student's name, parent's name, reason for the conference, performance of the student, situation at home ... and gather any available data to support. 
4. Welcome the parent and greet them with a smile (and thank them for attending).
• Our non-verbal communication speaks loudly about our attitude toward the conference.
5. Avoid overwhelming the parent(s) with too many staff members present (when possible).
• Parents often feel outnumbered, intimidated, and undervalued by large numbers of school staff. 
6. Relax and LISTEN, LISTEN, LISTEN!
• Our anxiety often causes us to dominate the conversation, assume intent, and never clearly hear or understand the parent's concern or perspective.  There is much dignity in being heard. 
7. Always begin the school's response with some positive statements that all present can agree upon.
• Four examples are validating the parent's time and support of their child, recognizing strengths of the child, emphasizing agreement by all to work together in the best interest of the child, and mentioning that some (or all) staff members in the room share the role of parents as well. 
8. The "my child" test helps all staff involved to keep the best interest of the child in focus.
• In other words, how would I want the school to respond if this situation involved my child? (This will not help without authentic empathy.)
9. Avoid using educational jargon or acronyms that may confuse parents.
• The goal of the conference is not to impress or isolate the parent, but rather to involve and inform the parent while reaching consensus in the best interest of their child. 
10. Avoid offering parental judgements or suggestions until they ask for our help.
• The parent(s) may be doing the best they can in their current situation, and such advisement may be better offered (and received) in a separate, one-on-one setting. 
11. Agree to disagree when an impasse is reached. 
• Often small roadblocks in the conference can become major obstacles that sadly are more about the adults in the room ... and less about the student's welfare or addressing the primary issue. 
12. On those rare occasions when a conference becomes volatile, we have two choices.
• First is to calmly remind and redirect all involved that we are all here in the best interest of the student. If that consensus remains difficult or doubtful, the conference can respectfully be ended (often by an administrator)... to hopefully resume at a later date when emotions have settled. 
13. When the answer to the parent is NO, take time to respectfully and clearly explain (to the parents) the policy or professional judgement behind the decision. 
• Many parents may be unaware of district or state guidelines ... or may trust the experience of those in the room ... if we are willing to take the time to earn that trust. 

What I Learned my First Year as Principal!

• The physical and emotional safety and welfare of the children is priority #1 each day.  
• Without a safe environment ... nothing else matters.  
• Priority #2 is to hire the right teachers.
• Find teachers who love kids, have a passion for teaching and learning, and are great teammates. 
• Place students, when possible, with teachers who are a strategic fit for their learning style and social development.  (Extremely important in the elementary years)
• Develop a placement team with staff members that best know your students and teachers.
• Emphasize only 1 major instructional initiative per year that reinforces your data assessment.
• Strategically select so that it has longevity because of its usefulness, benefit to students, and alignment to your strategic plan.    
• Litmus test for any new program or initiative ... answer must be YES to all three!
• #1 Right program?  #2 Right school?  #3  Right time?
• Power must be respected, purposeful, and polite!
• Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character ... give him power.  -Abraham Lincoln
• Support your staff with prioritizing their life outside of school as spouses, parents, caregivers, volunteers, etc.
• The result will be an appreciation, focus, and peace-of-mind that benefits all.  
• Hire an AP, when possible, that balances your personality and excels in your areas of challenge.
• Delegation is critical and succeeds when your colleague complements you.
• Listen to concerned or frustrated parents (and staff).
• There is great dignity in being heard, and sometimes this is all they expect or desire.  
• Align your mission, vision, instructional framework, and strategic plan.  
• This consistency and congruency will enhance understanding and engagement from all stakeholders.  
• Don't fear transparency and vulnerability.
• It is normal and OK to be wrong, admit it, and apologize as you "grow" through it!
• Highly value your trustworthy and organized Bookkeeper.
• Financial mismanagement or carelessness can get you fired!
• Make decisions according to (#1) what is best for the students and (#2) based on your best teachers.  (#2 per Todd Whitaker)
• This perspective will often make a difficult decision easier. 
• Good teachers want you to visit their classrooms regularly.  
• They are excited to share their planning, creativity, and resulting engagement and learning.  
• Make major decisions carefully, prayerfully, and with wise counsel.  
• Often your final confirmation is one conversation or fact away.  
• Keep your superintendent informed of major issues ... 
• ... but lead the school as empowered with a humble, yet confident spirit!
• When the school succeeds, share the credit!
• When there is a mistake or failure, publicly own the blame and privately/honestly/respectfully address any others responsible.  
• One of the greatest gifts we can offer teachers is TIME!
• Be creative in offering as much time as possible to plan, collaborate, catch up, or get ahead.    

What I LOVE about our TEACHERS!

• They arrive early or stay late!  
• They smile and laugh a lot!
• They encourage each other on tough days or during difficult seasons of life!  
• They often forgive and move on!    
• They embrace their necessary duties beyond the classroom!
• They get to know their students in and out of school!
• They keep our students physically and emotionally safe!  
• They extensively plan, first with each student in mind, then each standard!
• They understand the value of teamwork and enjoy being/working together!
• They manage their weaknesses and build on their strengths!
• They are flexible! 
• They value, emphasize, and integrate literacy instruction!
• They keep the focus on student engagement and learning!
• They innovate and differentiate by embracing and integrating technology!
• They are extremely innovative and patient in dealing with students struggling academically or behaviorally!
• They keep parents informed, recognizing the value of their engagement and support! 
• They prioritize their roles as a spouse, parent, or caregiver!
• They appreciate the resources our school, district, PTO, and community offer!  
• They hold themselves accountable! 
• They often offer a solution when presenting a problem or concern!
• They hold me accountable! 
• They try to remember each day what it was like to be a student!
• They make me proud!

Leadership Gratitude 101

Updated 9/29/19

As I reflect on those who have lead the districts or schools I have served, I am grateful for these brief, yet profound examples of leaders that have directly and uniquely impacted me.  Leadership begins with a relationship, and I would not be a leader today without their investment. Following are the many ways these men and women have walked along beside me in my career.

• Mr. Freeman ... gave me a chance!
• Mr. Mathis ... believed in me!
• Mr. Flack ... guided me!
• Mr. Cauthen ... trained me!
• Ms. Sherrill ... grew me!
• Mr. Taylor ... mentored me!
• Mr. Lovelace ... listened to me!
• Dr. McDaniel ... invested in me!
• Dr. Gummerson ... challenged me!
• Dr. Triplett ... allowed me to prove myself!
• Mrs. Brewer ... trusted me!
• Mr. Dowling ... modeled for me!
• Dr. Callicutt ... supported me!
• Dr. Epps ... valued and refined me!
• Mr. Clinton ... welcomed me!
• Mrs. Devine ... leads me daily!
• Dr. Booker ... empowers me through strategic planning!

I can only hope that one day an educator will reflect on my leadership as an experience that grew or renewed their passion for teaching, learning, or leading.  Each of these men or women amazingly offered just what I needed at that precise moment on my journey to "now" ... and I am forever humbled and grateful.  Like the turtle said sitting atop the fence post ... I have not reached this point alone!  :-)

Day 1 Letter to K parents

Dear Kindergarten parents,

With today being the first day for all of your students, I wanted to send this note to thank you for sharing your incredible children with us.  As I write this, we are having an extremely productive day. You have probably already noticed our exceptional team of Kindergarten teachers and assistants, and I am quite grateful for their daily preparation and commitment.  

For those who may be new to the Titan family, please know that the safety of your children will always be our first priority.  Next, we will promote their significance … in other words, that your child feels loved and uniquely understood.  Finally, we want to ensure their success … specifically their academic and social engagement and growth.  As a parent of three children myself, I fully understand the magnitude of our responsibility and thank you for your trust and support thus far.  

As a reminder, we will have our Independence Day next week.  This is a day for all students, especially those arriving with parents, to confidently and independently enter the school and proceed to their classrooms … certainly with staff supervision and guidance along the way.  An added benefit to this independence is minimizing interruptions to our teachers as they supervise your children or make final instructional preparations.

I am honored to serve your family and this community, and I also look forward to meeting those of you I have not had the chance to meet.  Enjoy your evening!

My best,

Mr. G

The 3 C's of Success

I had the chance today to sign a Dr. Seuss book for a student whose parents are annually (and secretly) collecting messages from influencers throughout his school years ... to be presented to him at graduation.  As I contemplated what to write, I simply shared how I have challenged myself, my own children, and other students throughout the years.  

1. Have the COURAGE to do what is right, even when unpopular or when no one is watching.  
2. Have the CONFIDENCE to be exactly who you were created to be ... based on your unique and God-given talents, interests, and strengths.  
3. Have COMPASSION for those different, hurting, or struggling.  

Success often seems measured by prestige, power, or a paycheck ... and certainly deserving or justifiable at times; yet so many mentors and examples in my life have consistently exemplified courage, confidence, and compassion on their road toward success.  

Still excited ... after 28 years!

There is just something slightly overwhelming, yet marvelously invigorating about this week in our school ... a week that replays itself at this time each year!  Our staff reported 3 days ago ... and our hallways and classrooms have awakened to the joy of smiles and laughter, the fumes from excessive lamination, the reviews of tropical vacations, the colorful creativity of new bulletin boards, the fresh eyes and ideas of newly hired teachers, the tear-jerking fragrance of a bazillion Clorox wipes ... and the anticipated, yet innocent arrival of nearly 800 of the very reasons we chose this incredible profession.

I should be asleep right now (it's half past midnight), but my mind is racing with to-do lists in eager anticipation of our open house and students' first day.  Even after 28 years in this business of public education ... there is still a longing to hear our crisp new flags proudly flying, to see the rainbow of 60 bicycles crammed into steel racks out front, to witness our incredible teachers intentionally connect with their new students, to see little feet inside brand new sneakers (even if on the wrong feet :-), to feel the eye and nose burn from bus diesel fumes, and to gently witness the love and strength that allows a kindergarten mom to let go instead of hold on tighter.  

Yes ... I am still just a big kid myself in many ways, still grateful to serve our students and their families, still humbled to lead our amazing staff, and still excited for the first day of school ... even after 28 years!  

A mission statement that is weathered, tethered, and measured!

As a new elementary school in 2014, we developed the following mission statement. 

Let's build a school that parents value, where teachers thrive, and children learn and grow. 

Our simple mission statement has weathered our opening, our first accreditation review visit, state accountability reporting, SIC oversight, PTO leadership transitions, as well as steady enrollment and staff growth.  All the while, our mission has remained constant ... and embraced by our school community.  Though often mission statements change regularly, our weathered approach has offered purposeful efficiency, consistency, and direction.  

Tethered to our mission is our emerging growth as a Professional Learning Community.  Here is the alignment.

• Professional describes a school where teaches thrive as individuals and teams ... both personally and professionally.
• Learning is the obvious and authentic result in an environment where children learn and grow.
• Community originates and flourishes in a school that parents value.

Our mission is measured in numerous ways.  Parental value is assessed through involvement and leadership (including PTO participation), volunteer efforts, fundraising support, as well as formal and informal feedback (including yearly surveys).  

A school where teachers thrive can be measured via student engagement and growth, teamwork, teacher leadership, teacher evaluations and growth, professional development (required and voluntary), teacher retention, yearly formal and informal feedback/surveys, and most importantly (to me) a work/life balance that offers adequate/prioritized time to honor family, community, and personal commitments.  

Finally, a school where children learn and grow can be measured by literacy development (reading, writing, speaking), social/emotional maturation, progress monitoring, engagement, performance growth, grades, test scores, authenticity/application/connectivity of learning, learner independence, as well as student/teacher/parent feedback.  

Some mission statements are impressive, yet long and full of big words not even the staff can remember.  For our school, a simple and focused approach was what we needed then ... and now!

What I learned from the greatest teacher I have known

• He understood that the basic or most pressing needs of those he taught had to be met before meaningful instruction and learning could begin. 
• He understood the value of knowing the unique strengths and challenges of each individual he taught.
• He planned with rigorous and high expectations for learners as well as clearly defined objectives and outcomes.
• His command of content was not rivaled among his peers.
• His communication skills were clear and refined.   
• His teaching style often included stories to capture the attention of his students and to offer practical and engaging applications/connections for depth of understanding and learner-share opportunities.  
• He often used calm and thoughtful questioning to challenge and manage those who interrupted or challenged his lessons or authority.  
• He regularly met with small groups or individuals to more directly guide learning or diagnose struggles.  
• His ability to balance clear expectations and boundaries while offering grace endeared his students to his instruction and often created a culture of mutual respect.  
• He advocated the value of early preparation, of consistency, of peaceful silence and reflection, of exercise, of teamwork, and even rest ... yet strategically maximized his teaching time.  
• His creativity and flexibility were often employed to adapt to the setting, circumstances, background knowledge, learning styles, or struggles of those he taught.  
• He had an amazing ability to differentiate instruction by challenging the advanced thinkers while effectively reaching those emerging learners.  
• He consistently demonstrated a passion and patience for children.  
• He embraced inclusion and often requested those students who were hurting, ignored, disabled, forgotten, or struggling.  
• He made home visits when needed or helpful.  

The 3 best questions to ask on a reference call for a teacher!

When I call another administrator to inquire about the performance of a teacher I am considering hiring, I ask just 3 simple questions!

1. Does he/she love kids ... and how do you know?
2. Does he/she (still) have a passion for teaching (and learning) ... and how do you know?
3. Is he/she a great teammate ... and how do you know?

I used to ask a lot of questions to try and sound smarter than I was or to impress.  Now after nearly 30 years in this business of education, I simply ask what matters to me as the instructional leader of the school, what would matter to me as a parent of a child in that classroom, what would matter to me as a member of their team, and what aligns with the mission/vision of our school.  

As a former high school administrator, I know "content command" is relevant ... yet (in my experience) it still cannot overcome a lack of the aforementioned qualities.  

A few weeks ago I read a quote (author unknown) that said to "hire character ... train skill", and that almost perfectly sums up my aged philosophy.  Love, passion, and teamwork are attributes that someone either has or not.  All the other "stuff" we often discuss or desire can be taught or professionally developed by skilled leadership teams or strategic mentors.  

Think of the best teachers in your school ... or the ones you want to teach your children!  I bet they warrant answers in the affirmative to the questions above.  So remember ... keep it simple and focused with the next reference call you make!