If Your School Could Talk: A Letter to the New Principal
Late last week I got a text from someone I’ve been supporting on their leadership journey. She shared with me that she had landed her first principal position. I am so happy for her and stoked to see her get this opportunity. It took me back to when I got that call…the one where they offer YOU the job. I found myself thinking back to the first few days in the office, all the things going through my head.
Looking back, there certainly are things I would tell 2011’s version of me. I can’t go back in time, however, so instead I am sharing with all of you, the new principals, what I would tell myself back then. I’ve heard it said before, “if only these walls could talk”. When I became the principal, my school was over 40 years old. Imagine if those walls could share insights with me. What if my school itself could write me a letter giving me some advice, some things to watch out for, and some words of encouragement? Let’s just say it can…and for this week’s blog, I’m sharing what I think my school would have written to me mixed with the insights gained since that day in July of 2011:
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Hello Darrin,
So, you are the new prinicpal?!? That is quite exciting…Welcome to our school! We’re thrilled to have you in our community and can’t wait to embark on this new journey with you. Starting a new role is always an exciting yet challenging experience, and we want to extend our warmest greetings and offer some words of advice and guidance as you settle into your new position.
First and foremost, remember that our school is more than just a place of learning; it’s a community built on Relationships. As you step into this leadership role, you’ll quickly see that the heart of our school is the people – the students, the teachers, the staff, and the parents. Focusing on these relationships will be key to your success and the success of our school.
Embrace our Culture
Take some time to immerse yourself in the culture of our school. Each school has its own unique vibe, traditions, and unwritten rules that make it special. In your case, you’ve been here for several years but this new role you have will take on a different meaning than your previous work. Make sure you attend school events, participate in extracurricular activities, and engage in casual conversations with staff and students. Work to ensure that our school is a safe and supportive environment where everyone feels seen, heard, valued, and trusted.
Be Approachable and Visible
One of the best ways to build strong relationships is by being approachable and visible. Make it a point to walk the halls, visit classrooms, and join in on school activities. Your presence will not only help you stay connected with what’s happening on the ground but also show everyone that you’re accessible and invested in their experiences. A friendly smile and a genuine interest in people’s lives go a long way. Continue to show up at the front door, but also lean into groups and activities in the community. People want to see you, to talk to you, and to hear what you see as our path forward.
Listen and Learn
As a new principal, you might feel the urge to jump in and start making changes right away. While your fresh perspective is valuable, it’s important to spend some time listening and learning first. Talk with teachers, staff, students, and parents to understand their needs, concerns, and aspirations. Your role is different, and you need to approach it as if you are a new member of our community. By actively listening, you’ll build trust and gain a deeper understanding of what works well and what areas might need improvement from everyone’s perspective.
Push for More Collaboration
Successful schools thrive on collaboration. Encourage open communication and teamwork among staff and students. Create new opportunities for teachers to share their ideas, best practices, and challenges. Collaborative efforts often lead to innovative solutions and a stronger sense of community. Remember, we’re all in this together, and your role is to lead, facilitate, and support these collaborative efforts.
Lead with Empathy
Empathy is one of the most powerful tools in a leader’s toolkit. Approach challenges and conflicts with understanding and compassion. Show empathy in your interactions, and you’ll build strong, trusting relationships that can weather any storm. Remember that behind every student and staff member is a unique story and perspective.
Celebrate Successes
Take the time to celebrate the successes, big and small, of our school community. Recognize the achievements of students and staff, whether it’s academic excellence, personal Growth, or acts of kindness. Celebrations foster a positive atmosphere and motivate everyone to continue striving for their best.
In closing, we’re excited to have you as our new principal and look forward to the positive impact you’ll bring to our school. Your leadership will undoubtedly help to shape the future of our community. We are rooting for you just as much as you are rooting for us! We are in your corner and want you to win. Welcome aboard, and here’s to a fantastic journey ahead!
You’re a Tiger till You Die now…
Now let’s go!
Rock Springs High School
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Have a #RoadToAwesome week
Darrin
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