Reflections

One of the things I try to do is to be open to feedback even when it is critical. Many of my teachers share specific praise when it is earned and specific criticism when it is needed as well. Recently, one of my teachers sent me an email about the NYS Math Test. I've asked for her permission to use parts of what she wrote to me in this blog.  It's honest and speaks to the hard work we have all been trying to juggle on the 3-8 level. Lisa, As you always model for our staff and as I always model for our students, I will remain positive, learn from mistakes and move forward.  I strongly believe there needs to be more change in testing. I hope that Commissioner MaryEllen Elia listens to these concerns, considers them, and makes the necessary changes in testing that puts students first. This has been such a great two weeks. I am so impressed with how our students handled testing with such diligence and tenacity.   I wanted to give a personal perspective o...

When I first began considering a move from teaching to administration, I had lofty dreams. It looked easy to lead a group of people. My naive self "knew" what we needed to do better and what that should look like. If only I had the opportunity to make that change. I was sure it could ALL be done. Once I became an administrator, I quickly found out that leadership looked much easier than it really was. Just like teaching, the needs of and for the position are always changing. It's a balancing act to make sure priorities are being met and our focus remains on all things important to students. Managers manage. And most of that work is controlled work. But the work of real leadership, that isn't controlled. It's about creating vision, communicating purpose and inspiring adults and students to do the very best they can. That can get messy. When you work with people on topics like vision, purpose and inspiration, there is emotion tied to all of it. When you...