This is the official Twitter account for #OklaEd, thehashtag that brings OK educators together. #OklaEd is not political & promotes constructive dialogue.
#Oklaed - Let's get this party started!! April Grace, Shawnee Supt. I am celebrating life, friends, family and God's goodness every day. Grateful to work with amazing people. Excited and blessed to lead #oklaed chat tonight.
Michelle Waters, 9-11 English, Wayne High School. I am celebrating nearing the end of moving from a rent house to our own house after a fire burned our other house down. #oklaed
#oklaed
Austin Pickle. Student in the 'Masters of Science in Library Media and Information Technology' program at Broken Arrow NSU.
I do not lead or serve anywhere currently.
I have recently (few months ago) celebrated finishing my bachelor degree.
Happy SUNday, #OKLAED! Lara with #NSUEngEd in Tahlequah. I hope everyone got outside for some sunshine today! ☀️ Won’t be able to make the chat, but have a GREAT week!
Twylla Hester, Tuttle HS Principal. I am loving the opportunity to lead and serve in Tuttle. Lots of wins going on in my world there! Also, finished my dissertation last week. Making some minor additions then sending it on to my committee. Defend on Nov. 29! #oklaed
#Oklaed - Let's get this party started!! April Grace, Shawnee Supt. I am celebrating life, friends, family and God's goodness every day. Grateful to work with amazing people. Excited and blessed to lead #oklaed chat tonight.
#Oklaed - Let's get this party started!! April Grace, Shawnee Supt. I am celebrating life, friends, family and God's goodness every day. Grateful to work with amazing people. Excited and blessed to lead #oklaed chat tonight.
Representative...I respect your office and I value your support...but I need your honesty. No more half truths...it's time to be honest with you constituents. https://t.co/Iexd6Kzu8C#OklaEd
#Oklaed - Let's get this party started!! April Grace, Shawnee Supt. I am celebrating life, friends, family and God's goodness every day. Grateful to work with amazing people. Excited and blessed to lead #oklaed chat tonight.
#oklaed Michelle Schuster, UCO graduate student and 3rd grade teacher in Moore. I am celebrating family life and getting ready to graduate in May! @ucolme
Christine Wesley, K-3 Special Education in Mid-Del. I celebrate lots of little things! I woke up this morning? I should celebrate with some coffee! 😜 #oklaed
#Oklaed - Let's get this party started!! April Grace, Shawnee Supt. I am celebrating life, friends, family and God's goodness every day. Grateful to work with amazing people. Excited and blessed to lead #oklaed chat tonight.
Jack Reed, Principal at Emerson North High School in @OKCPS! I celebrate the opportunity to be at the @NDPCn Conference & National Alternative Education Association Conference in Columbus, Ohio tonight! #oklaed#NDPC2018
#Oklaed - Let's get this party started!! April Grace, Shawnee Supt. I am celebrating life, friends, family and God's goodness every day. Grateful to work with amazing people. Excited and blessed to lead #oklaed chat tonight.
#oklaed My name is Dr. Jo Lein @JoMabeeLein and I am the ED of the Teaching and Leading Initiative. We work in Broken Arrow and Cleveland. We recently celebrated a partnership with @TheMineTulsa that we cannot be more thrilled about!
Kim, 4th grade T at Norman Public Schools. Kinda late bc researching the State questions. Recently I have celebrated that my 20 month old potty’s in the potty. #oklaed
Hi #oklaed friends! I’m Kas, Elem Lead Learner @VPSINDIANS. I’m celebrating completion of my accreditation and Oct 1. Consolidated report. When the FQSR is done, I’ll be celebrating even MORE.
Hi #OklaEd friends! Jennifer from Edmond. I’m hopping in & out of the chat, prepping for the week. Early childhood peeps - remember to join in! #OKEarlyEd
A1: Students 1st! Character, consistency, collaboration. Elevate, encourage & empower. Serve. Be the Thermostat. Kindness. Motivate, inspire & create. Think outside the box. Find Solutions! Create an atmosphere of enthusiasm about our work. to be done. Be positive! #oklaed
#Oklaed - Let's get this party started!! April Grace, Shawnee Supt. I am celebrating life, friends, family and God's goodness every day. Grateful to work with amazing people. Excited and blessed to lead #oklaed chat tonight.
A1: I believe Leaders have to be willing and able to do almost everything they are asking of those following them. Want Ss to write? Write, too. Want Ts to be professional, show 'em how it's done. #oklaed
Nancy Williams - Reading Specialist - Idabel Primary South- I serve 1st grade students and help the classroom teachers as much as I can. I try to lead by example of hard work and professionalism. I celebrate student progress and keep their classroom teachers informed..#oklaed
A1 I surround myself with talented people and trust them to do their jobs. I work as closely as I can with them to find out how they want to grow professionally and how I can help with that. #oklaed#MDPurpose
Kathy Dunn, Mid-Del's Asst. Superintendent. I just celebrated my pastor's 35th anniversary at our church. It takes a bunch of people who love each other to accomplish that! #oklaed
Lead by serving others, Developing trusting relationships, giving each member a meaning & purpose toward a vision of best while fostering a caring culture #OklaEd
A1: I am the professional educators of Norman building rep for my site. I take my leadership role very serious. My colleagues know they can come to me for voting advice bc I have done my research. I take the roll very serious. #oklaed
Leadership manifests itself differently in every situation, but ultimately, leadership is noticing potential and facilitating a way to achieve that potential.
#OklaEd
#OklaEd I believe in servant leadership. I believe we all need to walk the walk if we talk the talk. I believe relationships & empathy are vital for building & working with an effective team. I value integrity, transparency & responsibility. Above all, remember we all need grace.
A1: My leadership philosophy is communication, communication, communication. If the people you are "leading" do not fully understand where they are headed or what the goals and expectations are... you may actually only be a director. #oklaed
A1: Students 1st! Character, consistency, collaboration. Elevate, encourage & empower. Serve. Be the Thermostat. Kindness. Motivate, inspire & create. Think outside the box. Find Solutions! Create an atmosphere of enthusiasm about our work. to be done. Be positive! #oklaed
A1 Servant leadership- share the load, be willing to get your hands dirty. Hire good people show them what to do and trust them to do their job, if they don't-reteach. Much like you would with your students. #oklaed
🔆The @oksde is offering free PD for the 18-19 school year in different regions of OK designed to support #oklaed Ts w/ effective instructional strategies aligned to the OAS. 🔆Can't wait to see you at the #OKEarlyEd sessions so sign up today! https://t.co/gPsxoIPLsY…
#Oklaed - Let's get this party started!! April Grace, Shawnee Supt. I am celebrating life, friends, family and God's goodness every day. Grateful to work with amazing people. Excited and blessed to lead #oklaed chat tonight.
#OklaEd I believe in servant leadership. I believe we all need to walk the walk if we talk the talk. I believe relationships & empathy are vital for building & working with an effective team. I value integrity, transparency & responsibility. Above all, remember we all need grace.
A1: my leadership belief is my 4-word mantra: “It Starts With Me”.
Modeling, grit, service, smiles, positivity, learning from failure, innovation, relationships-it all starts with me. #oklaed
A1 my leadership philosophy is one of serving and example. I want to inspire as many people as possible to do whatever possible to help as many kids as possible to achieve to the highest level possible! #oklaed
A1. My leadership philosophy is leadership is not about being a saint. I try to lead by example. Admit when I make mistakes, encourage students/others to do their best, to show empathy for when I don’t understand, and to have fun all the while doing it. #oklaed
A2: Put people in a position to be successful and give them all the support to achieve their tasks! Spread praise in front of their colleagues! #oklaed
A2: I lead by example. Be the change you seek is how I live. I want to work with flexible people.. be flexible. Be transparent. Be kind. Be all the things you seek. It’s the first step. #oklaed
I believe in servant leadership. It’s not about me and always about others. I also never ask others to do anything I wouldn’t. Being the leader means coming in earlier and staying late. All while looking for every chance I have give credit to others. #oklaed
A2: For people in my dept I focus on their successes, I provide them with resources, and mental support. For my Ss; praise, high expectations, team work. #OklaEd
A2: I love to find opportunities to empower others to lead. I am always around to be a sounding board, check in with them but I want them to feel confident in their role & ability. The coach in me comes out. I try to breathe life and let them know I believe in them. #oklaed
A2 #oklaed This is huge. Not only does it show you understand what makes your people tick; it also shows that you value them doing whatever soul-feeding they can as a form of self-care. Work waits. Family doesn't.
A1 I always try to remember & challenge myself with this question: "Am I being the type of teacher I would want my own children to learn with and from..."
#OklaEd
A2. A written note. I learned how important hand-written notes were from @headycoleman. @bumblebeeso also encouraged me to start a faculty journal of encouragement that gets passed aroud weekly in our school. #Oklaed
A2 - Trust others to make decisions. Give responsibilities to T’s who are willing to take them. T’s need to know you trust them and will support them. #oklaed
A2. I empower those around me by trusting them as professionals. Positive feedback, lots of communication and strong relationships abound at SMS. #oklaed
A2 Ask for suggestions, pass along praise from others, offer praise of my own. Promote failing forward-we may make mistakes, but what do we learn from them? #oklaed
A2: I make sure they understand that their ideas are as valid as mine - and occasionally ask for help or "steal" their ideas (with their permission). We are all on the same team, so I try to make sure everyone feels that way. #oklaed
I have a phrase I use all the time. “How can I be helpful?” When you ask that and actually listen to the answer you can find out where to put people in places where they can succeed. #oklaed
A2: Of course you must feed, support and celebrate others along the path to wherever you are "leading." Without positive encouragement along the way they may never know if they are on the right path. Empower others to help lead the ones behind them too. #oklaed
#oklaed A2) Our coaching philosophy is driven by three components: autonomy, relationships, and competence. A person can be lifted up by focusing on these specific areas (Deci & Ryan, 2002). The thing we often ignore in our system is competence. Support people in their jobs
Q1: My leadership philosophy is to always include the people around me so we can work as a team. Leadership happens with a group of people who can cooperate with each other. #oklaed
A2. Encouragement and stepping back. I encourage my S’s to think outside the box and have them go for it. Even tough i make them check in with me, I let them find their own leadership style and go for it. #oklaed
A2 I try to recognize daily work & effort of those around me. I remember words matter, & often we don't hear about "the good stuff" - It's the complaints that can predominate. I try to empower others by trying to understand their needs & offering aligned tools/strategies #OklaEd
A2 Give them meaning and purpose in their role, let them take the lead consistently remind them how valuable they are & thank them for their work #OklaEd
A3 #oklaed I'm trying to replace words like "vision" and "mission" with "purpose." Remember your purpose, and you'll stay focused on it when you're working with any group of people.
One way I do this is with my Stagecraft class, I allow the class to give input on set designs and other various designs for shows. It’s their show as much as it is mine. #OklaEd
A2 - Just reminded my staff last week, that when they are off, they are off. They are not expected to answer emails/reminds/dojo when they are at home. #familyfirst#oklaed I am trying to be an example of that myself. #boundaries
A2: I love to challenge our leaders to become experts in things they have never done before, then support them to make sure they are successful. Then, the important part - celebrate the success! #oklaed
A3: one thing I do NOT do is get too “mechanical” 😂 #thatHIPPYteacher some might say I’m TOO MUCH about the people.. (this is why I don’t “love” leadership roles, y’all..) #oklaed
A2 I make a point to see the good in others. One of my Ss said my superpower was hearing him make negative comments from all the way down the hall so I could counter them with something good. I told him I like to hang silver linings on people's clouds. #oklaed
A3: Built in reality checks are useful. Put on a calendar that you will stop and make sure the vision still fits - and that progress is being made toward it. If not, either the vision or the path needs to be altered! #OklaEd
Great question. My vision is only as powerful as I can get those around me to believe in it. #cpsreds CSI strategic plan is hard work but we continue to chase the goals established #oklaED
A2: I make sure to encourage the people around me and include them in whatever we are doing. I don’t think anyone should be alone so I try to be supportive and help them join the team. #EIPT3043#oklaed
A2) I’ve always try to put people in situations to be successful then celebrate their success like crazy! When they want to try something new, I support them. When it works, I give them all the credit and when it doesn’t. I’ll take the blame. #OklaEd
A3 I have my vision -- mission statement, teaching philosophy -- written out and I write/talk about them frequently. Then I remember that people come first. I am here to take care of my kids and help others take care of theirs. #oklaed
A2 #oklaed This is huge. Not only does it show you understand what makes your people tick; it also shows that you value them doing whatever soul-feeding they can as a form of self-care. Work waits. Family doesn't.
A3: Build relationships with those you lead, make the vision “our” vision and ask for ideas from the staff to achieve the vision! Get to know your staff for the people they are, not just their job title! #oklaed
A1: My leadership style is a servant leader. Working as part of a team and with my Ts helps Ss and Ts. Being a resource for them and building relationships helps strengthen all of us. #oklaed
A3) By being genuine. The only connections that work will be the ones that you truly care about; the world will see through anything short of that. If you don’t have a genuine interest in the people you’re trying to connect with, then allow someone else to lead. #oklaed
A2: Im always looking 4ways we can provide T’s, S’s and parents w/ opportunities to showcase their talents. Placing them in situations where their strengths are used to to enhance school culture and student outcomes. PTSA’s, committees just a few examples. #oklaed
A3) Very hard for me to stay focused on the mission with all the noise and distractions so I focus on kids. “If it’s best for them why aren’t we already doing it, Steven Crawford circa 2006 #oklaed
A-2 A good leader recognizes the hard work of others. Positive comments go a long way to make difficult times better. This is also a good time to make suggestions for improvement if it is needed. #oklaed
This #oklaed student eats with a tube, travels in a wheelchair, and has rods up his spine to combat the scoliosis that developed from his cerebral palsy. But a #schoolchoice tax-credit scholarship is helping him to achieve his full potential. https://t.co/PaHYTs5qio
A3: A3: Ask questions, check in with them, take time! Stay connected to students! Ask how they are doing. Ask about things I know have been going on. Keep them Human and Celebrate!! Laugh often! Love helping htem find their gift and purpose. #Oklaed
A3: in reality I'm very focused on the end goal, but the day to day with Ss we deviate, we follow their ideas and passions and while it doesn't always fit my plan, the ultimate infusion, of a love for learning is still there. #OklaEd
A3 1 of the most important aspects of leadership is simply making time 2 listen to others. Relationships are built on a series of small interactions, which can combine to form a sturdy bridge. We live in an attention economy. Our time is a precious gift we can give others #OklaEd
A3) Revisiting the vision by having it posted in my office and on our staff shirts. When off track, address it with love in a manner that is appropriate for the situation. Build in the positives while making corrections. Be open to ideas for correction to get on track. #oklaed
A3: might come a little easier to us counselors, but I’m always observing and taking in dynamics, patterns. Also, I value individuality over anything. Have to keep in perspective experience. #oklaed
A3: I try to remember my purpose. When I get too caught up in my position I will take a moment to see what is going on and how I am responding to others and their response to me. If their response is negative I take a moment to reflect and change. #oklaed#EIPT3043
A3: first we must know where the school is headed. This must be a common goal among staff. It can’t be just admin’s goal. A vision among faculty. A common goal. And a path to get there. Input valued among staff to get there. #oklaed
A3: #oklaed I think going to students' events, whether fine arts, athletics, etc. keeps the balance. I watch them, and I want a solid school district for their future, but being with them also reminds me of how much they need the connection to our souls.
I am a firm believer in brain breaks. As leaders we can get burnt out if all we do is focus, allowing a brain break whether is turning off your phone or choosing to do something other than work it always is to focus on the vision but also remain human. #OklaEd
A4 #oklaed It's a simple thing, but I like to visit with my leaders in their offices/buildings. I don't like summoning them to the superintendent's lair. I think I get more honest/open feedback that way.
A-3 A good leader knows how to articulate his/her vision and is able to plant those seeds in others. It needs to be done often and progress toward the goal needs to be recognized and celebrated. #oklaed
A3 having a shared vision is the first step. If it’s only the leaders vision, it’s automatically harder. also think it’s important at any level to remember their own “why” which is hopefully in some way related to producing amazing adults w/each & every kid. #oklaed
A4: I try to surround myself with people that are working toward the same vision. They might be in a different department or they might sit by me. #oklaed
A4: You must first gain their trust and respect. If someone truly respects you, they usually automatically want to please you therefore will strive to reach their own full potential on their own. This is a sign of a true leader. #oklaed
That’s the $10,000 question to a new admin. This is a struggle daily. I try to focus on gains and supporting my Ts...while also treading water with a cement cinder block above my head #oklaed#isgradschooloveryet
#oklaed A3) I would pose additional questions - as leaders, do we impose our vision on others? How do we avoid making changes to communities rather than with communities? Are we the right people to be leading?
A4 #OklaEd This year our teachers have all set "stretch goals" using the @foliocollab framework. We have coaches/mentors & the opportunity to serve as a coach for others. I love ❤️ this model for encouraging professional growth, as well as strengthening professional relationships
A2: Find ways to compliment, celebrate, and catch Ts doing great things. Everyone likes to be caught doing things well. Saying something when I see a good thing is one of my goals this year. Teachers need that just as much as kids do! #oklaed
A4: Find those who won’t sugar coat things and tell you the hard truth. I have several that will come in shut the door and give it to me straight! It’s my job to hear what they are saying and then take their advice to heart! #oklaed
A4. I am by nature an over communicator. I gave all the teachers a copy of the McRel rubric. At the end of the year they help me evaluate myself and make suggestions for improvement. That is feedback for me and empowerment for all involved. #oklaed
A4 Provide a safe space for staff to vent when stressed, brainstorm and share ideas, lift each other up with praise and recognition and also laugh about life #oklaed
A4: My dept and Hall peeps come into my room at lunch and we "feed" of each other. Lots of laughter and solving of world problems. My Ss and I have all kinds of discussions and feedback and suggestions from me to them and from them to me. It's how we roll. #OklaEd
A4. I think feedback is crucial. I am always asking for feedback from my circle, my students, and students within the school. After that feedback, we discuss. Make plans for the next year. Constantly self evaluating. #oklaed
A3: in reality I'm very focused on the end goal, but the day to day with Ss we deviate, we follow their ideas and passions and while it doesn't always fit my plan, the ultimate infusion, of a love for learning is still there. #OklaEd
A4 the more you know your folks the better including kids. You have to know their needs. Relationshipsare everything. People also have a need to know their leaders expect the best of them & are willing to hold them accountable to that level. #oklaed
A4) First, you have to get to know them and figure out what their needs are. I need a sign behind my desk that says, “It’s about relationships stupid” to remind me to get out of the office. #oklaed
A5 - Really listen to them when they talk. Pay attention to behaviors T’s like S’s need to know you are there for them and that they can trust you. Fill in the gap, where and when you can #oklaed
A3: It’s important to work the language of that vision in your general convos w/ everyone around U. “Make sure you’re doing your part to inspire excellence” in a S convo; A convo w/ T’s or external stakeholders may sound like “In our efforts to promote integrity we___.” #oklaed
One that I’ve done is a “Post Mortem” after every project I gather the class back together and we analyze what happened. I get feedback for the future and see how each students need is being met or if I need to change something to ensure that everyone is striving. #OklaEd
Q1: My leadership philosophy is to always include the people around me so we can work as a team. Leadership happens with a group of people who can cooperate with each other. #oklaed#EIPT3043
#oklaed A4 Be genuine. Knowing our staff is vital to knowing their needs. It’s about being aware. Being supportive is such a little thing to do, but can mean so much.
A5 I think this is where modeling and communicating comes in. If I want my group to be compassionate, empathetic, and forgiving, that's what I need to do. And if I see someone struggling, I need to communicate with them about them in a way that I would want. #oklaed
I use @voxer with my Ts, we stay in constant communication and they are encouraged to help each other. Also, I set reminders in my phone to encourage or lift up. I get so busy with the day to day, I have to set aside that time. #IronSharpensIron#oklaed
A5 #oklaed You have to let people know they won't be disemboweled (metaphorically, of course) for every mistake they make. If I'm truly leading as I try to, people will tell me anything and not worry how it makes them look.
You have to make a conscious effort to build those relationships. Being too focused on the what and how makes you forget the why. Kids are the main purpose but Ts are just as important. Knowing your people and treating them like they are all the best brings everyone up. #oklaed
A4) We can all be overwhelmed at time. It can be seen on their faces if we know them. Check in on them. Ask for honest responses. Let it be known that its ok to not be ok. Be honest abt mistakes, so they don't beat themselves up abt their own. Celebrate their awesomeness. #oklaed
Please don't spam our #OklaEd chat with links to your website. You're welcome to engage in our conversation / respond to questions / amplify the ideas of others, but this isn't the place or time to share self-promotional links. :-)
A4: Find those who won’t sugar coat things and tell you the hard truth. I have several that will come in shut the door and give it to me straight! It’s my job to hear what they are saying and then take their advice to heart! #oklaed
In my classroom, I use a lot of children’s literature. In the teachers lounge when I hear gossip/judgemental comments, I try to vocally give people the benefit of the doubt and share something positive about that person or situation. We all need compassion. #oklaed
A5. I started with a slight advantage on empathy as I worked with these teachers before being blessed with my current position. We have all seen each other win and lose. Compassion and forgiveness are built in to the SMS culture. #oklaed
A5 can be difficult! There has to be high levels of accountability & drive but the support & empathy are equally as important. We have to build the capacity for everyone to always be in the helping/building mode with everyone around them. #oklaed
A5 In a small circle that can be easy and hard at the same time. We are often called upon to "stand in the gap" when others are out or lack the skills to complete the task unassisted. We sometimes need reminders of when others have "stood in" for us #oklaed
You have to make a conscious effort to build those relationships. Being too focused on the what and how makes you forget the why. Kids are the main purpose but Ts are just as important. Knowing your people and treating them like they are all the best brings everyone up. #oklaed
A5: #oklaed Helping people understand we all make mistakes, most are ones we can recover from - we live, we learn, we move forward and don't repeat. I like to make sure we understand what went wrong and can we be preventative in the future.
A5) in my circle of influence, the most important role I have is keeping things nonpartisan which isn’t always popular. It helps people stay united and focused on the cause. #oklaed
I impress on my students a “family” attitude whether it’s in the classroom or in a cast for a show. We are one class, one cast, one theatre family. I also see amongst the staff at my school as well! #OklaEd#EagleFam
A5: I have the most awesome dept but there are some really young teachers in it. It's important that they know that what they are doing is good, that we will help when we can, and not everything will be a success, but the willingness to adapt to student needs trumps all #OklaEd
A5. BE INTENTIONAL! GO! Seek out those who struggle. Voice your forgiveness to others. Find a way to help staff/students in need. I can’t sit back and think, “they know I’m sorry. Oh, man, that’s sad. Good luck to them.” #oklaED
#oklaed A5 Don’t just say we are a family, but build a climate where it feels like family. Share joys, tears, successes, failures. Watch out for one another. Expect the best of one another.
A5 #OklaEd I think 1 way to build a culture of empathy & forgiveness is to admit mistakes when they are made, & apologize / seek forgiveness personally. "Giving grace" is much easier said than done.
Getting to know each person's story & checking in often is key.
A4:Don’t just say the door is open...keep it open as much as possible and really listen....be honest w/feedback...be in the rooms as much as possible, not just for evals....model the behavior I want so they see I am willing to go the extra mile too....#oklaed
Q5 Communication and Relationships! Let others have a voice, share ideas, and collaborate. Open communication...technology can help...shared calendars, Microsoft Teams etc. #oklaed
A5) I try to demonstrate empathy, compassion, and forgiveness toward Ss and Ts as often as possible. Allowing clubs and activities that build these skills in others. Having tough conversations with others. #oklaed
A5 - I’d like to add that it can be VERY difficult. Often, just like our S’s, the T’s that need our compassion and caring most, are the one’s who will wear us out and then we struggle with empathy. #oklaed
A5 #OklaEd I think 1 way to build a culture of empathy & forgiveness is to admit mistakes when they are made, & apologize / seek forgiveness personally. "Giving grace" is much easier said than done.
Getting to know each person's story & checking in often is key.
A4: I meet every week with my admin team and grade level. Communication has to be consistent to keep things on track. Listening is the most important part of my job. I always ask for good things at the beginning and give time for concerns at the end. #oklaed
#oklaed A5) There is a lot of work that needs to be done on the front end. It is sort of cliche but activities like Myers-Briggs, Compass Points, True Colors, etc. can make a big difference for group. 5 dysfunctions is a good exercise - https://t.co/eItdXSsMh5
A6 #oklaed Lay out facts clearly and without emotion. Talk through options. Ask my inner circle who else needs to be included. Develop a plan and speak with clarity. Take feedback. Always admit what could have been done better.
Agreed. A "focus on classroom family" is so important.
I was reflecting today with @sfryer that this isn't the case for all Ts / in all classrooms. Some educators view learning as a more transactional process. Reminds of Friere's "banking model" https://t.co/vUV6FhTZtL#OklaEd
A5: Ugh! #oklaed It took me too long to think about this one which makes me think I need to place it back in my life as a priority! Thank you, @ShawneeSup for poking the bear just a little bit on this one! We must remember to never let this one go unattended!
A6 - Sometimes it’s “fake it until you make it” To provide stability, peace, etc.. you must show it. I am thankful for a support network of admin in and outside of my district #oklaed
A6) Be real. Be present and be engaged. Listen, listen and listen. Hard for me because I think I have to say something. Have to remind myself, two ears and one mouth... #oklaed
A6: I don’t show all my cards, but let Ts know when a priority is a priority. If everything is a priority, then NOTHING becomes a real priority. I keep things off of their plate if I can do the research myself. I don’t think my Ts would ever know that is was a “bad day”. #oklaed
A6. I have everyone step back. Take a day to think including myself. Then come back the next day and discuss. If you do not know how to step back, then the situation will only escalate. #oklaed
Guys @leslieosborn1 private messaged me to try to offer advice that would help me with my child that is deaf. I only say this bc you need to vote for her. She is truly a special person. I can’t wait to vote for her! She didn’t have to try to help me, but she did. ❤️ #oklaed
Communication is huge on this one. Transparency + Calmness. Helping everyone know we will get through this and either there is a plan or we are working to find a solution. #oklaed
A6 this doesn’t happen just in the stormy moments it happens everyday. Leaders have to learn to remain above the emotion. The calm stable demeanor over time pays dividends in times of high stress. Don’t be the leader who adds stress to stressful situations. #oklaed
#oklaed A6 Give them time to process changes. Let Ts vent without judgement. Sometimes they just want to be heard knowing that they aren’t expecting change just a listening ear.
A6 It's important to try & respond w/o emotion in times of crisis. Training & experience helps. A cultivated disposition to respond calmly also helps. Preparation & advanced planning can be huge. If you've anticipated it, you have a better idea how to respond... #OklaEd
I’m not an admin and getting lots out of this chat! I think some of us are born leaders and lead in ways we don’t even know we do. Pretty sure that is you, too Kim! #oklaed
A6) by staying out of the drama and focused on the cause. No internal battling and encouraging people to take things offline as opposed to arguing with an audience. #oklaed
A4 I routinely send out quick surveys to get feedback to make sure we're all on the same page. I also do 2 celebrations & 1 concern each month, so I can be aware of each Ts concern that I may not have heard yet. I share out all the celebrations in an email. #OklaEd
A6) Leaders have to be calm. Think through situations before responding, but not delaying the response to a point that allows for gossip or miscommunication to occur. Being aware of your community in and out of school goes a long way. #oklaed
A6 First Relationships and Empathy but also...procedures and expectations...not just for Ss but for everyone. This predetermined structure can help things run more smoothly. #oklaed
A6: This is where having expectations laid out early is helpful. Hold EVERYONE accountable and you'll know when there is an issue. Any everyone should know what consequences to expect - but it should include incentives as well! #oklaed
A5: I make mistakes. I apologize. I encourage risk taking and failure. There is no formula for success, and the culture of our class is something I take very seriously. #oklaed
A5:Own my mistakes 1st and publicly admit/apologize...model empathy, compassion, and forgiveness when helping Ts, Ss, and Ps alike....a little humility goes a long way...#oklaed
A4 I routinely send out quick surveys to get feedback to make sure we're all on the same page. I also do 2 celebrations & 1 concern each month, so I can be aware of each Ts concern that I may not have heard yet. I share out all the celebrations in an email. #OklaEd
A7. I think this goes hand in hand. How do you even know how to lead if you have never follow/serve. Once you know how to serve others then leading will come naturally with service. #oklaed
Agreed, but sometimes we have to cry with them. That was me last week. It was a HARD week. I have never seen so many mental health needs with my students. The staff needed to hear what they were doing right, and see that it’s okay for our hearts to hurt for our S's #oklaed
A6: staying focused and also keeping things light hearted. I laugh A LOT! I joke a lot! My people know I am crazy and am fun so that helps. Don’t take life so serious. But serious enough to get the job done. #oklaed
A7: #oklaed Always being willing to do anything I ask. Being the hardest work on the "farm", modeling serving - we are here to serve students and communities. @joy4ok Does this as well as anyone I know!!
As @ToddWhitaker writes, "When the principal sneezes, the whole school catches a cold. This is neither good nor bad; it is just the truth. Our impact is significant; our focus becomes the school's focus." #oklaed
A7 In the arena of tech support, much of what we do directly w Ts & Ss is direct service, helping meet an immediate need. This is certainly the case with tier 1 helpdesk / triage situations.
People are always watching & listening. Leadership is more what you do than say #OklaEd
A6: Ts need to know I have Ss' best interests first & Ts' best interest 2nd. When times are tough, we have to trust each other to do our work and do it right. Part of my job is to keep all the stuff I can out of my Ts way, so they can do their job. #OklaEd
#oklaed Let's rewind and play that again, @AmyFichtner ".... get advice from people who are calm, wise, kind, etc. so that I'm getting my cup filled with what I want to be." I really like that.
A6: Start w/ meaningful praise. A lot of times, we all see the fire and forget the growth and the efforts that occurred even in dire times. It’s a marathon it a race. #oklaed
A7 You lead & serve simultaneously your moving people forward while serving a cause greater than yourself. This action is preconceived in the culture that has been developed #OklaEd
A7) “Lead in order to serve”. I study the styles and methods of servant leaders. @coach57@joy4ok and others always amaze me with their “others first” style. #oklaed
A7) Good leaders find ways to get Ss and Ts what they NEED to help them be successful. This is great leadership and service. It shows them you care and want what is best for them. Also, helping out when it isn't expected, showing up for events, and communicating well. #oklaed
A7 can be a difficult balance. Should never ask your folks to do things you aren’t willing to do but you also can’t get bogged down. People have to respect & understand your “why”. Why are you here? Why should they care what you think? Let them see more of the iceberg! #oklaed
A5: It starts with being willing to own mistakes. No one has to be perfect but we all need a little grace sometimes. Ts accept responsibility more willingly when they see you doing the same. Being gracious with praise and criticizing only when needed helps balance things. #oklaed
A7 In the arena of tech support, much of what we do directly w Ts & Ss is direct service, helping meet an immediate need. This is certainly the case with tier 1 helpdesk / triage situations.
People are always watching & listening. Leadership is more what you do than say #OklaEd
A7: I think servant leadership paves it’s own way. I try not to ride a high horse. I try not to live in ivory towers. I DO try to live in a glass house. #norocksallowed#justfeedbackforgrowth#oklaed
A7: Take on the mentality that good coaches have, your leadership is all about making your team better. Good coaches players know they care about them as more than just a player. Everything a good coach does is to serve their players and work hard to make them better! #oklaed
A7 It goes back to Q1-Servant Leadership is critical. It requires a balancing act of delegating and retaining tasks. I will often take "Problems" from my staff so they can focus on other issues, then if needed explain what I did in case it comes back up #oklaed
A7: You can’t lead if you don’t serve. IMHO, that is what is wrong with politics and some leaders today. Our current leaders think we owe them something instead of the other way around. #THEYwork4US#oklaed
A6: We you’ve faced death, you learn to gain perspective over whats necessary. I am forced to as the severity based on life & death. All other stuff can be navigated with grace and rationality. #oklaed
A8: If I'm going to work on school work, my daughter must be occupied elsewhere. If she is in bed, it's fair game. But if she's up, and we're together, she's my priority. #oklaed
Agreed, but sometimes we have to cry with them. That was me last week. It was a HARD week. I have never seen so many mental health needs with my students. The staff needed to hear what they were doing right, and see that it’s okay for our hearts to hurt for our S's #oklaed
A7: I think serving and leading well come from a foundation of positive relationships with those you work with. When you've laid a positive foundation, your people will follow you even when they're not sure bc they know you, your work, and how you value them. #OklaEd
Q7. You have to lead from the streets, not the podium. Get down there and do the dirty work. People will eventually follow.
You should read how @AllBlacks rugby team “sweeps the shed.” #oklaED
I try my hardest to let the weekends be my time off from “The Call”. Though that doesn’t always happen, one thing that I have done to help balance is remove my school email from my phone. It allows me to disconnect for a bit. #OklaEd
A7: Benefits are relationship. I don’t mind doing any type of work. I hope I’m seen as a servant to those I lead. I’m only in my position to serve this state. That’s all I have. #oklaed
A8. I disagree. I don’t think it is daunting. And if you are sacrificing your soul, you are not leading. Being leader is about empowering others. And when you empower. You delegate. This is the balance. And it is easy. You just have to trust the process. #oklaed
A8 I try to handle as much as I can "at the office" Other issues I will deal with outside of "family time." So when my daughter goes to bed I will work some more on critical issues, etc. #oklaed
A8 Focusing on #wellness#selfcare & reminding those w whom we work to focus on it is key. Don't just pay lip service to these values, we also need to MAKE them priorities. Sometimes work needs or has 2take precedence over family, but that should be exception not the rule #OklaEd
A8: I haven’t found the balance yet. Since adopting two kids I feel as if they get the most of me. I need to give my leadership role more attention. Also the walkout got 109% of me. So I’m spent. I’m trying to find the balance now. #oklaed it’s a lot at once.
A7- The administration job has changed. All the paperwork and phone calling still has to happen but the school must see you in the trenches with them. Take that cafeteria duty. Clean up that throwup yourself. Sub in that class. Get out in that rain. #oklaed
A6: Being calm in times of crisis helps keep the ship stay right. Everyone has times of stress and frustration but being calm keeps everyone that way. It also helps you make tough decisions because you take as much of the emotion out of the crisis as you can. #oklaed
A8: I'm lucky enough to work with my girls so I can do both at the same time, and we can plan our evenings...grading parties, shopping therapy, or just some family time with all the grandbabies #OklaEd
A8) Be intentional with family time. Teach a bible study class for some wonderful ladies. Take naps when I can. Be willing to say no to some things. Not all good things are necessary to be great. #oklaed
A8 - Been there, done that! You have to be intentional. I saw a POST on an admin FB page asking about answering emails from P's on the weekend. Some Admin responded they will contact in an emergency there are no emergencies I can solve on the weekend #911 #oklaed
A8: #oklaed I think if we are transparent here... this is one we have to keep taped on the fridge! I am always trying to remind myself. My gdaughter has helped me do better at the RE-focus. I know I am better when I unplug for a short stint! Still working on it!
A7- The administration job has changed. All the paperwork and phone calling still has to happen but the school must see you in the trenches with them. Take that cafeteria duty. Clean up that throwup yourself. Sub in that class. Get out in that rain. #oklaed
A7: I think serving and leading well come from a foundation of positive relationships with those you work with. When you've laid a positive foundation, your people will follow you even when they're not sure bc they know you, your work, and how you value them. #OklaEd
A8 luckily my kids were older when I got into admin. It can be a tough balance. We have the most important job out there & if we aren’t happy or don’t have our support system in place we will never achieve what we could have as a leader. #oklaed
A8) “God is first, my friends and family are second, I am third” Gale Sayers from his book “I am Third” the movie “Brian’s Song” based on Sayers’ relationship with Teammate Brian Piccolo. I was ten when I read this quote. #oklaed
A9 - Put last week behind me and move forward. Last week was rough. Be TRULY thankful for the awesome staff that I have. Listen to them without showing frustration even when I am exhausted (because they are too). #oklaed
A9: This week I'm going celebrate Halloween with my Ss. Tie it in to Biology (that ought to be interesting) and then I'm going to close on my house so I can focus on school again and quit being distracted by my AWESOME new place! #OklaEd
A9: I can do a random act of kindness for each of my team members (coworkers) and I can continue trying to find a way to engage my negative senior who is failing for the second time. #oklaed
A9 to make sure I connect with the folks in need and do everything possible to get them what they need to serve their students in the best way possible! #oklaed
A9: I can hold my site Rep meeting like I should. I need to make sure everyone is ready to vote, and has the info they need. Not to influence, but to inform. It’s my duty as building rep. I host a meeting in my room & I should do that before the 6th. #oklaed
A5 Empathy is critical. Never forget what it was like to be a T. We all learn from our mistakes, I am not afraid to be honest about the lessons I have learned, and am still learning. T can see right through an admin who has always done it “better” and loves to share how #oklaed
A7: This one is tough but really important. School is a business of people. Serving is important but there are times that you have to take up the tough stuff and just lead to move forward. As long as you remember that relationships are always a part of your purpose. #oklaed
A8-You cannot just clock out and leave it so you must indeed balance it. Lots of planning ahead helps some but there are too many surprises along the way. I guess I really have no idea how I do it. Gonna stop typing and go read yours. #oklaed
PREACH! I have made myself a mobile cart and still couldn’t get in last week. I need to be with S’s and T’s, it’s the best part of the job. Discipline & Mental health has had me stuck in the office #oklaed
A7:Don’t ask more out of others than I’m willing to give. Do for Ts as I’d have them do for Ss...once they see what I’ll give, they’re more willing to give too.#oklaed
Yes! This person is always there when I need, whether it’s being someone to cry to or needing help with an event or coming with alternate ideas when one falls through. They’ve become my rock at school and I am incredibly grateful for this person. #OklaEd
Bonus Q. Yep. He always has the most positive supportive suggestions but also has the best most empowering ways to keep the bar high & inspires everyone around him to push themselves everyday to do it better today than yesterday. #oklaed
BQ: Many I name them if I want to? @ClaudiaSwisher definitely does all of that. She keeps many of us motivated and pushing ourselves, especially through NBCT process! #OklaEd
Bonus...yes! Those who have influenced me most have been encourages who are not afraid to see others grow and achieve success! They reach out and include others in the journey, mentoring along the way! #oklaed
Bonus: The best leaders I know check in on their people regularly and encourage growth while praising accomplishments. I've had some amazing (and some null) examples of this. I'd rather learn from the best than learn what not to do. #oklaed
I try to be like @ShupeJodie every single day. This woman is a leader, a motivator, a Christian everyday (not just Sunday’s) and an amazing mom. She can do it all. Thanks for your leadership boss. #oklaed
#oklaed Bonus A) I have had the pleasure of reading, listening to, and visiting with @Williamdp over the past several months. I believe he embodies leadership in the highest form.
Bonus - I know a superintendent
who was very willing to listen when I needed to be heard. Just the fact that she was (and is) there and willing to hear me was/is extremely impacting. She knows who she is. THANK YOU #oklaED
A8: Always a work in progress but you have to take time for yourself to stay sharp. Making time for family and friends keeps things in proper perspective. Work will always be there and it’s okay to leave it sometimes. This is still a work in progress though. #oklaed#balancingact
#OklaEd#Bonus I'm thinking of someone who constantly shows grace & patience in difficult circumstances which inspires me.
I want to be more like her in these respects. Empowering isn't always about doing. Sometimes it can be more about accepting, choosing kindness & grace.
Bonus:. Dr. Jean Cate from K20 is my inspiration! She has high standards, modeled expectations & is compassionate. She made me want to be better. #OklaEd
BQ) Easiest Q of the night. I want the work ethic and bulldog determination of the leaders in this chat. I’ll be voting for some of them early on Thursday. 😜#oklaed
As my children grew up, I protected my summers for them as that Norman calendar is pretty daunting with activities I’m responsible for—now w/summer activities w/the OASC, I’m trying to find a new normal. #oklaed
#oklaed as ALWAYS - Your completed ROCKED this Chat!! I learn so much from all of you every single week! You sizzled tonight!! Thanks Everyone!! Such an honor and blessing to be around such amazing educators weekly!! My heart is FULL!! Have an AMAZING Week!!
A8: My husband and I have been so blessed to truly enjoy each other's school activities. When our kids were little guys they sometimes played under the bleachers in the gym. We gave them a push broom to "play with" and kept them busy while we coached and sponsored! #oklaed
Love people. Truly love them; celebrate their accomplishments, point out the small positive things they do that often get over-looked, verbalize your appreciation for those people. Also, apply all of this in my marriage. #oklaED
Thank you @ShawneeSup for a great chat on leadership! Can’t just talk about leadership you have to BE about it and it’s obvious you walk the walk 🙌🏻 #oklaed
You just made me cry...thank you. I'm so inspired by working with #NBCTstrong candidates and teachers. My life is richer because you're in it. #oklaed.
