Leadership is…
It’s that time of year again. I am wrapping up my in-person visits with schools around the country and having great discussions about our collective learnings. As I visited with a school leader earlier in the week who I won’t be working with again next year (she’s headed off to a different district), I asked her what she believed she’d learned about leadership during her time in that school. Her answers were amazing, and I was deeply interested to hear more from her.
We know just how important the school leader is and the impact they can hold. Great school leaders are the cornerstone of thriving educational environments, where students and staff alike can flourish. But what exactly makes a school leader exceptional? There are so many characteristics and strategies for leaders to focus on and to sharpen their leadership game. This isn’t a specific ‘must have’ list. Rather, for the purposes of this post, I’m sharing the five traits of leadership that came up in my discussion with the school leader mentioned earlier. As stated above, I was really intrigued in her response and was thrilled to hear more.
Leadership is Treating People with Love and Respect
Great school leaders understand that the foundation of a successful educational environment is built on love and respect. When leaders treat teachers, staff, students, and parents with kindness and consideration, they cultivate a culture of mutual respect and trust. This approach encourages a positive atmosphere where everyone feels valued and appreciated. A leader who demonstrates empathy and compassion not only fosters strong Relationships but also inspires others to mirror these behaviors, creating a supportive and collaborative community.
Leadership is Being Consistent as a Leader
Consistency is crucial for effective leadership. A great school leader maintains steady and predictable behavior, which provides a sense of stability and reliability. When leaders are consistent in their actions, decisions, and policies, they build credibility and trust among their staff and students. This predictability helps in setting clear expectations and reduces uncertainty, making it easier for everyone to align with the school’s goals and vision. Consistency also ensures fair treatment, reinforcing a sense of equity and justice within the school.
Leadership is Being a Listener
Effective school leaders know the importance of listening. By actively listening to the concerns, ideas, and feedback of teachers, students, and parents, leaders can gain valuable insights into the needs and challenges of their community. This practice not only helps in making informed decisions but also empowers others by giving them a voice. Listening promotes a culture of openness and inclusivity, where everyone feels heard and valued. Moreover, it strengthens relationships and enhances problem-solving, as leaders can address issues more effectively when they understand different perspectives.
Leadership is Trusting Your Team
Trust is the cornerstone of any successful team. Great school leaders demonstrate trust in their teachers and staff by giving them the autonomy and support they need to excel in their roles. Trusting your team means believing in their abilities and judgment, delegating responsibilities, and providing opportunities for professional growth. This empowerment boosts morale, fosters innovation, and encourages a sense of ownership and accountability. When leaders trust their team, it creates a positive and motivated work environment, leading to better outcomes for the entire school community.
Leadership is Being Clear About Expectations and Values
Clarity in expectations and values is essential for guiding the actions and behaviors of the school community. Great leaders articulate their vision clearly and communicate the standards they expect from everyone. This transparency ensures that everyone is on the same page and understands their roles and responsibilities. By being clear about the school’s core values, leaders can foster a strong, unified culture that aligns with the institution’s mission. Consistent communication of expectations and values helps in maintaining focus and direction, enabling the school to achieve its goals effectively.
What Have You Learned About Leadership?
I can’t say this is a complete list. But the traits listed in this post—treating people with love and respect, being consistent, being a listener, trusting the team, and being clear about expectations and values—are interrelated and collectively contribute to a thriving educational environment. When leaders live these qualities, they can inspire their school community, foster a positive and inclusive culture, and drive academic and personal growth for both students and staff. As Education continues to evolve, the importance of these timeless traits remains steadfast, underscoring the impact of compassionate, consistent, and communicative leadership in shaping the future of education.
What have you learned about your leadership during this school year? I’d love to hear about it in the comments, or reach out and let’s talk!
Have a #RoadToAwesome week
Darrin
Tune in this Sunday to “Leaning into Leadership” where my guest is Dr. Andrea Gilbert.
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