Tuesday, October 8, 2024

An Interesting Interview with My Principal: Meet Jonathan Dyal

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis

Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter

This episode of The 10 Minute Teacher was a lot of fun. Not only did I get to interview my principal, Jonathan Dyal, but my film class, the “Sherwood Showstoppers,” filmed the interview. (I'm so proud of how much they are learning!) After a tweet I sent out in October 2023, George Couros and Allyson Apsey invited me to write a chapter about Jonathan in their book What Makes a Great Principal: The Five Pillars of Effective Leadership out this year. (You can listen to my earlier interview with George about what truly makes a great principal and the five pillars shared in the book.)

Principal Dyal shares his philosophy of walking the halls frequently to stay connected with teachers and students, emphasizing his proactive rather than reactive philosophy. We talked about his strategies to build trust with teachers and how he uses observations positively. (I like his philosophy of observations; that is what the tweet was about in the first place.)

He also discusses how he builds positive relationships with students in a way that improves student culture. This is a unique interview in that I see this firsthand and know the positive results it has when principals leave their offices, walk the halls, and spend time in classrooms. This approach is powerful, and it works!

Questions Answered in this Episode

  • What is a positive approach to teacher observations that prioritizes frequent visits and low intimidation?
  • How can a principal communicate expectations and provide feedback to teachers in a way that builds trust?
  • What strategies can be used to help teachers feel comfortable with the presence of a principal in their classroom?
  • How can a principal manage their time to ensure consistent classroom visitation despite administrative responsibilities?
  • How can student relationship building have a positive impact on school culture?
  • What advice does Jonathan have for other school leaders who struggle to find time for classroom visits?
  • How can you balance visibility while ensuring that staff or students do not perceive your presence as punitive?

Listen to the Podcast

  • Stream by clicking here.
  • Subscribe to the Show

    10 minute teacher podcas audible

    Watch on YouTube

    About Jonathan Dyal (Bio as Submitted)

    Mr. Dyal joined the Sherwood Christian Academy leadership team as Middle/High School Principal in July 2023. He has 12 years of teaching and administrative experience in education, where he strives to follow Titus 2:7: “In everything, set them an example by doing what is good” by living out his faith daily. Mr. Dyal earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from Northwest Missouri State University in 2018 and his educational specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Valdosta State University in December 2023.

    How to Get the Transcript

    The easiest way to get the transcript is to go in Apple Podcasts and press the show link and a download transcript option will appear. that is the best transcript. If you do not wish to do that, you can download a transcript I created with Adobe Premiere Pro and formatted with ChatGPT. (Unfortunately I have found that sometimes ChatGPT is leaving out a sentence or word here and there and so the Apple transcripts are more accurate, but after checking. This one is pretty good.)

    Disclosure of Material Connection: This episode includes some affiliate links. This means that if you choose to buy I will be paid a commission on the affiliate program. However, this is at no additional cost to you.  Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” This company has no impact on the editorial content of the show.

    The post An Interesting Interview with My Principal: Meet Jonathan Dyal appeared first on Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis @coolcatteacher helping educators be excellent every day. Meow!


    from Cool Cat Teacher Blog
    https://www.coolcatteacher.com/jonathan-dyal-proactive-leadership-in-education/

    Personalized Mastery-Based Learning: How to Guide

    From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis

    Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter

    In this episode you'll learn about a whole school that moved to personalized mastery-based learning and then you'll meet three teachers from around the US who are implementing this in their classrooms. Every teacher will come away understanding more about the movement and how they can implement this approach for a lesson, a unit, or a whole school year.

    This show will air at 4pm on Wednesday, October 2nd on WDJY FM in Atlanta- you can listen to the live stream here.

    Watch the YouTube Video

    Will premiere on Wednesday, October 9 at 9 am below or just subscribe to my YouTube channel.

    Questions Answered on Today's Show

    What is competency-based (or mastery-based) learning? How does this look when a whole school implements it?

    • Nicki Slaugh, principal of Quest Academy, explains the concept of competency-based learning and how it differs from traditional education models.
    • Nicki Slaugh shares the journey of Quest Academy’s shift to a whole-school competency-based model, including the steps taken and challenges faced.

    What strategies were used to improve student engagement and academic outcomes at Quest Academy?

    • Nicki discusses the specific strategies implemented, such as changing the physical classroom environment, creating personalized learning paths, and shifting the focus from grades to mastery of skills.

    How do teachers collaborate to set high expectations and standards in a competency-based system? What does a typical day look like in this environment?

    • The discussion includes how teachers work together to develop proficiency rubrics and set clear expectations for students.
    • Nicki Slaugh gives insights into what a typical day looks like in classrooms at Quest Academy under the competency-based model.

    How do teachers handle students who don’t achieve mastery on their first attempt?

    • Nicki explains the process for supporting students who need additional help, including the use of “Mastery Minutes” for reteaching and reassessment.

    How are mastery-based learning strategies applied in different subjects (science, language arts, and math)?

    • Three teachers implementing the Modern Classrooms Project—Dr. Cecelia Gillam (science), Karen MacDonald (language arts), and Joe Manfre (math)—share their subject-specific approaches to implementing mastery-based learning.

    What are the common misconceptions about competency-based learning?

    • Learn about misconceptions about personalized learning, such as the belief that students spend all day on computers.

    How can competency-based learning be applied in classrooms that aren’t already set up for it?

    • Practical tips are shared for educators who want to start using mastery-based learning, even if their schools haven’t fully adopted the model.

    What are the benefits and challenges of using a competency-based approach in diverse educational settings?

    • Learn how this approach can be adapted to different classrooms and student needs, and the benefits they’ve seen from using it.

    Full Podcast Episode with Guests:

    Nicki Slaugh – Principal, Quest Academy

    In this episode, Nicki Slaugh shares how Quest Academy transformed into a whole-school competency-based learning environment, where students are empowered with personalized learning pathways and a focus on mastery. Learn how Nicki’s leadership reshaped classrooms, improved student engagement, and increased academic performance. Listen to the full episode with Nicki Slaugh: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/e862

    Modern Classrooms Project Webinar Guests:

    • Dr. Cecelia Gillam (Science Teacher, Louisiana)
    • Karen MacDonald (Language Arts Teacher, Utah)
    • Joe Manfre (Math Teacher, Hawaii)
      These three educators from the Modern Classrooms Project share their experiences implementing mastery-based learning across different subjects. Discover how personalized learning and competency-based education are applied in real-world classrooms. Watch the Modern Classrooms Project webinar: https://cctea.ch/modernwebinar

    Show Notes: Cool Cat Teacher Talk -Episode 4

    0:00 – Introduction
    Vicki Davis introduces the topic of competency-based learning and the featured guests for today's show.

    0:34 – Nicki Slaugh’s Introduction
    Principal Nicki Slaugh shares her background and how she became involved in transforming Quest Academy.

    1:34 – The Journey of Quest Academy
    Nicki Slaugh discusses how Quest Academy transitioned to a competency-based learning model and the steps involved in the process.

    3:06 – Improving Student Engagement and Outcomes
    Nicki explains the strategies used to increase student engagement and improve academic results at Quest Academy.

    5:06 – Setting High Expectations and Standards
    How Quest Academy teachers work together to set clear and high expectations for student mastery and competency.

    6:24 – A Day in a Competency-Based Classroom
    Nicki describes what a typical day looks like for both teachers and students under the competency-based learning model.

    7:18 – Student Empowerment Through Ownership
    How students are given choices in their learning paths and take ownership of their educational journey.

    11:04 – Handling Students Who Don’t Achieve Mastery
    Nicki explains the process for supporting students who don’t reach mastery on their first attempt and how “Mastery Minutes” help students succeed.

    18:03 – Introduction to the Modern Classrooms Project
    Vicki introduces the Modern Classrooms Project and its focus on mastery-based learning.

    20:07 – Dr. Cecelia Gillam on Mastery-Based Learning in Science
    Dr. Gillam discusses how she implements mastery-based learning in her science classroom in Louisiana.

    24:02 – Karen MacDonald on Mastery-Based Learning in Language Arts
    Karen MacDonald shares her experiences with competency-based learning in her language arts classroom in Utah.

    29:10 – Joe Manfre on Mastery-Based Learning in Math
    Joe Manfre talks about how he uses mastery-based approaches in his math classes in Hawaii, and how students demonstrate understanding.

    32:02 – Common Misconceptions About Competency-Based Learning
    The teachers from the Modern Classrooms Project dispel some of the common myths and misconceptions about competency-based learning.

    36:08 – Practical Tips for Applying Competency-Based Learning
    The episode concludes with practical tips from the guests on how educators can begin implementing competency-based learning in their own classrooms.

    The post Personalized Mastery-Based Learning: How to Guide appeared first on Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis @coolcatteacher helping educators be excellent every day. Meow!


    from Cool Cat Teacher Blog
    https://www.coolcatteacher.com/talkmastery/

    Tuesday, October 1, 2024

    How to Help Students and Schools Through Traumatic Times

    From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis

    Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter

    In today’s episode, we discuss a critical issue many schools are facing—how to help students and staff heal from trauma. Whether it's a safety event, severe weather like Hurricane Helene, or individual traumas, schools across the nation are navigating unprecedented challenges. To help students learn, we must first help them process what they've been through. As Lana Penley says, “In moments of crisis, we need to provide space for students and teachers to process what they've been through before diving back into academics.”

    I want to acknowledge those still in the midst of trauma, like those affected by ongoing flooding in North Carolina. We have to meet their immediate needs first, as we cannot move forward until people feel safe and supported. While my hometown of Camilla, Georgia, was spared from the worst of Hurricane Helene, I know many of you are still facing tremendous struggles, and my heart is with you.

    In this episode, Lana Penley shares her powerful story of transformation. After her school burned down, she realized that test scores weren’t the primary goal—what truly mattered was creating a sense of community, connection, and healing. As her school focused on relationships, both with students and among the staff, they saw remarkable changes: teachers felt less burnout, students were more engaged, and yes, test scores went up. This episode is a resource for educators and principals who are hurting, who want to help their students, and who need to know that it’s okay to pause and heal before pushing forward.

    Questions Answered in This Episode

    • How do you help students and teachers heal after a traumatic event in a school community?
    • What are the key steps to take in the aftermath of trauma, such as a hurricane or school safety event?
    • How can schools create connection and community to create a safe learning environment?
    • What practical strategies can teachers use to bring social-emotional learning into their classrooms?
    • How can educators balance the need for academic progress with the emotional needs of students and staff?
    • What lessons did Principal Lana Penley learn from her school burning down, and how did it change her approach to education?
    • Why is it important to address the emotional needs of teachers as well as students in times of crisis?
    • What role does mindfulness and stress reduction play in helping students and staff recover and thrive?

    Listen to the Podcast

  • Stream by clicking here.
  • Subscribe to the Show

    10 minute teacher podcas audible

    Watch on YouTube

    About Lana Penley (Bio As Submitted)

    Lana Penley, a renowned speaker, celebrated author, and esteemed former Principal, stands at the forefront of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL). As the dynamic CEO and Co-Founder of Unlocking SEL, she brings 25 years of experience, shaping her groundbreaking, mindfulness-based approaches and solidifying her status as a preeminent voice in SEL. Her upcoming publication, “Unlocking SEL: The 5 Keys to Transform Schools through Social and Emotional Learning,” is set to be a game-changer in the field, offering a vital resource for educators and learners alike. Lana's prowess extends beyond writing; she is a dynamic speaker, captivating audiences at numerous events. Her unique blend of engaging storytelling, wit, genuine emotional connection, and her knack for delivering practical insights make her sessions unforgettable. Lana embodies the essence of mindfulness, advocating for its principles and living them, thereby providing profound insights into nurturing thriving educational environments.

    Lana Penley's dedication to SEL transcends mere academic theory, manifesting as a deep, heartfelt commitment. Her contributions go beyond participation in educational conversations; she is a visionary, reshaping the education landscape. Lana Penley emerges as the quintessential mentor and leader for those on a quest for motivation and guidance in the world of SEL.

    Blog: https://www.unlockingsel.com/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/unlockingsel

    Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lana-penley-86b1021a9/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UnlockingSEL

    How to Get the Transcript

    The easiest way to get the transcript is to go in Apple Podcasts and press the show link and a download transcript option will appear. that is the best transcript. If you do not wish to do that, you can download a transcript I created with Adobe Premiere Pro and formatted with ChatGPT. (Unfortunately I have found that sometimes ChatGPT is leaving out a sentence or word here and there and so the Apple transcripts are more accurate, but after checking. This one is pretty good.)

    The post How to Help Students and Schools Through Traumatic Times appeared first on Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis @coolcatteacher helping educators be excellent every day. Meow!


    from Cool Cat Teacher Blog
    https://www.coolcatteacher.com/how-to-help-students-and-schools-through-traumatic-times/

    Thursday, September 26, 2024

    How to Improve Student Engagement

    From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis

    Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter

    In this episode of the Cool Cat Teacher Talk Show we explore how to engage students in learning with hands-on, playful and project based learning strategies. Additionally, we discuss the importance of “the hook” and ideas for engaging students into learning from the moment they come to class. For those who think that we need to get kids ready for the “real world,” David Gann discusses the importance of play in an uncertain world from a business perspective and what the research says about the importance of play and business success. We also talk about the neuroscience of why kids can't stop moving and how movement helps engage all students. This action-packed episode is full of ideas (according to our early-release listeners) so get a pen and paper handy and enjoy.

    Today's guests talking about engaging students include:

    • Dave Burgess, author of Teach Like a PIRATE
    • Occupational therapist, Suzanne Creswell
    • Nancy Frey, Acceleration Research Expert
    • David Gann, author of The Playful Entrepreneur
    • Dr. Jennie Nash head of education impact for LEGO Education
    • Educator Eric Sheninger, author of Personalize
    • Zest Simmons, Alabama State Teacher of the Year 2018-2019

    Watch the Episode:

    This episode will premiere on YouTube on Wednesday, October 2, 2024.

    student engagement

    Full Podcast Episodes with Guests:

    We are including interviews from our top episodes of the 10 Minute Teacher Podcast. If you'd like to listen to the full interview with these guests, here are the links and information on those episodes.

    Dave Burgess

    Suzanne Cresswell

    • Episode 244
    • February 1, 2018
    • “Why Kids Can’t Stop Moving: The Neuroscience Behind a Student’s Need to Move”
    • www.coolcatteacher.com/e244 

    Nancy Frey

    David Gann

    • Episode 449
    • February 27, 2019
    • “Why Playful Learning is So Important in the Classroom and the Real World”
    • www.coolcatteacher.com/e449 

    Dr. Jenny Nash

    Eric Sheninger

    Zest Simmons

    Time-Stamped Show Notes:

    00:00 – 00:18 – Introduction
    Vicki Davis introduces the show and the topic of student engagement.

    00:19 – 01:26 – Interview with Dr. Jennie Nash from Lego Education Play-Based Learning in Schools
    Dr. Jennie Nash discusses the importance of hands-on learning and how playful education can transform student outcomes. Dr. Nash highlights new research showing that play-based learning boosts student engagement, and addresses common misconceptions about play in education.

    01:27 – 02:25 – Research on Student Engagement
    Dr. Nash shares statistics from the State of Engagement Report, where 35% of administrators note that students are not engaged, leading to issues such as absenteeism and behavior problems. She stresses the importance of active learning to combat these issues.

    02:26 – 03:50 – Game-Based Learning and AP Computer Science
    Vicki shares her experience with game-based learning in teaching AP Computer Science and how it improved her students’ outcomes.

    03:51 – 04:45 – Project-Based Learning for Older Students
    Dr. Nash discusses how project-based learning helps older students solve real-world problems and engage in learning beyond the classroom.

    04:46 – 06:53 – Purposeful and Intentional Play
    The conversation shifts to purposeful play in education and how engagement strategies help teachers weave play and learning together to reach educational goals.

    06:54 – 07:10 – Key Findings from the Engagement Data
    Dr. Nash shares that students prefer play-based learning and how incorporating it into classrooms boosts both engagement and academic outcomes.

    07:11 – 09:12 – Playful Learning and Real-World Applications
    David Gann, author of The Playful Entrepreneur, talks about how play fosters innovation in uncertain environments, and how these principles can be applied in education.

    09:13 – 11:25 – Innovation Through Play-Based Learning
    David Gann explains how play-based learning fosters a culture of innovation and problem-solving among both students and entrepreneurs.

    11:26 – 13:18 – Play and Resilience in Education
    David Gann discusses the importance of resilience and purposeful play for students facing uncertainty in their learning journey.

    13:19 – 15:12 – Engagement in Classrooms Around the World
    Eric Sheninger joins the conversation to discuss his experiences with student engagement globally and how innovative learning strategies lead to more engaged classrooms.

    15:13 – 17:03 – Compliance vs. Engagement
    Eric Shannon Jr. emphasizes the need to move from compliance-based learning to active and engaged learning and offers tips on how to do so.

    17:04 – 18:30 – Relevance and Real-World Learning
    The discussion turns to how making learning relevant to students’ lives increases engagement, including Eric’s relevant thinking framework for educators.

    18:31 – 20:50 – Global Examples of Engaged Learning
    Vicki and Eric share global examples of schools using student-centered, real-world projects to create engaging learning environments.

    20:51 – 23:00 – The Role of the Hook in Student Engagement
    Dave Burgess, author of Teach Like a Pirate, joins the discussion and shares why “the hook” is a crucial part of engaging students in learning from the moment they enter the classroom.

    23:01 – 25:20 – Encouraging Teachers to Take Risks
    Dave Burgess encourages educators to step outside their comfort zone and try new methods to boost classroom engagement and improve student outcomes.

    25:21 – 27:33 – Personal Stories of Engagement
    Vicki shares personal experiences of stepping out of her comfort zone in the classroom to engage her students, even when it didn’t go perfectly.

    27:34 – 29:00 – Movement and Brain Breaks for Student Engagement
    Occupational therapist Suzanne Creswell explains the neuroscience behind why students need movement to stay engaged in learning.

    29:01 – 31:05 – Flexible Seating and Unique Learners
    Suzanne Creswell discusses the benefits of flexible seating and how different types of learners require unique strategies to stay engaged.

    31:06 – 33:22 – Creating Active Learning Spaces
    The importance of creating classrooms that cater to students' sensory needs, allowing them to learn more effectively through movement and active participation.

    33:23 – 35:10 – Conclusion
    Vicki wraps up the episode with a call to action for teachers to focus on improving student engagement through innovation, feedback, and purposeful play.

    The post How to Improve Student Engagement appeared first on Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis @coolcatteacher helping educators be excellent every day. Meow!


    from Cool Cat Teacher Blog
    https://www.coolcatteacher.com/talkengagement/

    Tuesday, September 24, 2024

    Fall for Learning! 4 Fantastic Fall Lesson Ideas

    From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis

    Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter

    Here are some fall themed ideas for your classroom. One of my favorite ideas encouraging students “don't fall for this” and teach phishing and deep fake awareness using the resources below.

    Just a note, these are from my email newsletter that went out this morning. If you'd like to join the weekly newsletter, sign up below.

    Sign up for Cool Cat Teacher's Classroom Matters Newsletter

    1. Fall Themed Emojis for Student Engagement

    Use fall emojis in your lessons, communications, or class discussions to add seasonal flair!

    • 🍁🍂 “Leaf” It to Learning: Add these to assignments or posters to symbolize “falling into learning.”
    • 🎃 “Pump up” with pumpkins: Use pumpkins for fall-themed writing prompts or math problems.
    • 🍎🍏 “Apple of My Eye” Rewards: Add apples when highlighting student work or as part of a class leaderboard.

    2. Quick Fall-Themed Activities for the Classroom

    • “Falling for Words” Bulletin Board: Have students write vocabulary words or positive messages on paper leaves and attach them to a tree.
    • Pumpkin Poetry: Have students write short poems inside pumpkin outlines, using words that evoke fall sights, smells, or sounds.
    • Classroom “Autumn Playlist” (using Suno): Let students create fun theme songs for class lessons about fall science, weather, or even verbs! ​Check out Suno​ to make this even easier.

    3. Fall Science Fun with 🍂 PHET Simulations

    • Use PHET’s free science simulations to tie fall themes into your lessons on weather, energy, and even chemistry. ​Explore PHET here​.

    4. Don’t “Fall” for Scams: AI and Digital Literacy Tips

    • Teach students how to spot phishing attempts: Incorporate lessons on email and social media scams by showing examples of phishing emails. Use an emoji like 🛑 or 🚫 to make it fun and engaging. Take ​Google's Phishing Quiz​
    • Deepfake Awareness: Show students examples of deepfakes and talk about how AI can manipulate images and videos. Teach them to question suspicious media and use tools to verify authenticity. ​Deepfake Quiz​
    • Interactive Scam Quiz: Create a quiz using Brisk Teaching or your favorite platform where students can identify what’s real or fake. This is a great way to get them thinking critically and boost digital literacy! ​Explore Brisk Teaching here​.
    fall ideas for classrooms

    The post Fall for Learning! 4 Fantastic Fall Lesson Ideas appeared first on Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis @coolcatteacher helping educators be excellent every day. Meow!


    from Cool Cat Teacher Blog
    https://www.coolcatteacher.com/fall-for-learning-4-fantastic-fall-lesson-ideas/

    Monday, September 23, 2024

    Things That Will Make a Truly Great Principal

    From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis

    Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter

    In today’s episode of The 10-Minute Teacher Podcast, we sit down with well-known educator and author George Couros to dive into his latest book, What Makes a Great Principal: The Five Pillars of Effective School Leadership.

    With insights from educators, principals, and contributors from around the world, George discusses how great principals build strong relationships, encourage continuous learning, and create environments that elevate both teachers and students. (I also was able to contribute a chapter about my principal and we talk about that a little as well.)

    Questions Answered in This Podcast:

    • What makes a great principal?
    • What are the five pillars of effective school leadership?
    • How can principals build strong relationships with their staff and students?
    • Why is servant leadership important in education?
    • How do principals promote a collaborative school environment?
    • What is the role of vision in school leadership, and how should it be developed?
    • How can principals support teachers to help them grow and succeed?
    • What characteristics do the best principals and teachers share?
    • How can school leaders balance autonomy and accountability for their staff?
    • How does a principal’s presence in the classroom impact school culture and teacher performance?

    Whether you're a principal, teacher, or aspiring leader, this episode is packed with valuable lessons on how to lead with vision, purpose, and empathy whether you're leading a school or your classroom.

    YouTube Video

    This week's guest

    Photo of leader George CourosGeorge Couros is a worldwide leader in the area of innovative teaching, learning, and leading, and he has a focus on innovation as a human endeavor. Most importantly, he is a proud father and husband. His belief that meaningful change happens when you first connect to people’s hearts is modeled in his writing and speaking. In his 20-plus years in the field of education, he has worked at all levels of school, from K-12 as a teacher, technology facilitator, and school and district administrator, and is currently an Adjunct Instructor with the Graduate School of Education at the University of Pennsylvania. George is also the author of the books The Innovator’s Mindset; Empower Learning, Unleash Talent, and Lead a Culture of Creativity, Innovate Inside the Box, the “Because of a Teacher” series as well as his latest book “What Makes a Great Principal.” George is also host of the popular education podcast “The Innovator’s Mindset.” 

    He has keynoted hundreds of conferences, including national conferences on five different continents. His work has been translated into multiple languages due to its worldwide impact.

    🎙️ Show Notes

    Key Takeaways:

    • George Couros's New Book: What Makes a Great Principal: The Five Pillars of Effective School Leadership explores the five core principles that define effective leadership in schools.

    • The Five Pillars of Effective School Leadership:

      • Relationship Builder: How strong connections with staff and students create a thriving school community.
      • Continuous Learner: Why great principals never stop learning and growing as professionals.
      • Talent Cultivator: Strategies for nurturing the strengths of teachers and staff.
      • Resource Maximizer: How leaders can effectively manage resources to benefit the entire school.
      • Visionary: The importance of creating a shared vision that inspires and motivates.
    • Servant Leadership in Schools: Understanding how the concept of servant leadership is applied in education, and why it's essential for effective school management.
      (Learn more about Servant Leadership)

    • George's Key Insights:

      • Building a vision with your staff, not for them.
      • The role of a principal in elevating both students and teachers.
      • How to balance autonomy and accountability in school leadership.

    Related Links:

    📝 Transcript

    For the most accurate transcript, Apple Podcasts now includes them in the episodes on their app. Below is the raw transcript prior to having the preroll and postroll material. The time stamps aren't exactly correct, but the content should be pretty accurate. I hope this helps the show be more accessible to everyone. -Vicki Davis

    Transcript

    Vicki Davis (00:01)
    I am so excited to talk to my friend, George Couros about his new book and he will say, our new book, What Makes a Great Principal? The Five Pillars of Effective School Leadership. Now, first of all, George, what makes this book different?

    George Couros (00:08)
    I will.

    Well, as you said, it's our book. And before we start, like, it was such an honor to have you as a part of this, I've known you for, I want to say forever, but I haven't known you forever. I've known you for such a long time. I'm just honored.

    to have you as part of this book, as well as Allyson Apsey who is technically my co -author. But we have 15 contributors, including yourself, and each wrote their own chapter on what makes a great principal. And I think that's what actually separates this book, is that a lot of times it's superintendents, it's school, admin talking about this. And although we did include, obviously, principal voices, I was a principal, Allyson was a principal for a much longer time, I work with principals.

    We really wanted to get the voice of teachers, students, instructional coaches, different people to say what they thought was a great principal because we always talk about the idea of servant leadership, but then we don't actually ask the people that we serve what makes us effective.

    And I asked you, but there was a rule for if we were going to let you write, you had to say you had a great principal. if you didn't have a, if you didn't have a great principal, you're out. Right. So, so not that we can't learn from, ineffective leaders or administrators, but I think we really wanted to show the exemplary practices.

    Vicki Davis (01:20)
    Oh yeah, absolutely.

    Yeah.

    tweeted out about my principal and he was he's just amazing. I've got a great one.

    George Couros (01:34)
    Oh yeah.

    Vicki Davis (01:37)
    So you've got five pillars of effective school leadership. So you've taken all of this feedback. And actually, when I wrote my piece, I actually surveyed teachers and a whole bunch of students to do my little piece of, because I didn't want it to just be my perspective. I wanted like, what does everybody think? Right. Because I think that, not that they're anybody's perfect because nobody is, but we know the characteristics that make them great. So what are these five pillars?

    George Couros (02:01)
    Yeah, so we looked at a lot of different organizations around the world talking about what effective leaders, and they'll have six standards, eight standards, three standards, whatever. So we narrowed it down to five. And the five are relationship builder, continuous learner, talent cultivator, resource maximizer, and visionary. And part of the thinking behind these pillars is the idea that…

    Allyson and I and the contributors, we never said like, there's only one way to be an effective principal.

    Vicki Davis (02:33)
    Mm -hmm.

    George Couros (02:34)
    In fact, we want to just kind of give you big ideas, but you as a school, as an organization, as a leader, you got to make this your own. So, you know, if you believe communication is very, very crucial to your work, then you put it in there. You actually talk about what does this look like? What does this mean to you? How do you know you're being effective? Because I'll tell you, I don't think there's any profession that hates being told what to do with more than I'm including myself in that, too. So it's kind of like, hey,

    Vicki Davis (02:48)
    Mm -hmm.

    George Couros (03:02)
    we really kind of said like, hey, let's, let's provide some ideas. some practices, some strategies, but at the end of the day, the people that are working with kids, they have to figure out their own solutions that are meaningful to this community. And I think that's why it's resonating with so many people

    Vicki Davis (03:13)
    Yeah. Did

    George Couros (03:15)
    And so the pillars we kind of are so like here's some big ideas, but you got to kind of fill in what this looks like to the people you serve.

    Vicki Davis (03:22)
    So did anything shock you?

    George Couros (03:23)
    You know, I don't know if anything shocked me as much as I wish I would have this book as a principal, just kind of hearing from the teacher perspectives. one of the things that I've always challenged people, especially, teachers is would you want to be a learner in your own classroom? And the thinking behind I remember being challenged once saying, well, like, you know, we should ask the question, like, would you want to be a teacher on the staff of a principal?

    Vicki Davis (03:39)
    Mm -hmm.

    George Couros (03:50)
    I thought, that's actually a really important piece. And so when a lot of people take that quote out of context is like, well, I would love to be in my classroom. I love the way you teach. And it's not that. That's not what I'm saying. It's like, do you actually understand the perspectives of the people you're serving? So it's not like, hey, 10 years ago, I would have loved me as a principal. Well, 10 years in education right now feels like 100. Just even the last two feels like 40. So.

    Vicki Davis (04:14)
    It does.

    Yeah.

    George Couros (04:18)
    I think that that's something that was really powerful. but also there's some like timeless things here, too. the thing that I hear all the time is that principals bring out something better in their staff when they're really, really effective. So I ask people all the time.

    Vicki Davis (04:33)
    Mmm.

    George Couros (04:37)
    this question like, hey, how's your principal? And if they say to me like, oh, dude, let me do whatever I want. I'm like, no, that's not a good thing. and I understand, I understand the perspective because we want to be trusted. we want autonomy in our practice. But if someone just leaves you alone, I don't think you'll actually ever get better because of their leadership. it's kind of finding that balance of like, when you push someone when you back off.

    Vicki Davis (04:42)
    No, it's not.

    So if you could travel back in time what are the key takeaways that you would tell yourself on day one based on what you've read in the book?

    George Couros (05:07)
    Well, the biggest thing is like probably know who you serve. And I think one of the big takeaways, Allyson I talked about this. I remember texting her is saying the visionary pillar has to be last. And most people will go into a school where their vision comes first, where they have a vision of what they're going to do, how they're going to do it. And I would honestly say that there's probably one of my issues when I first like I really, you know, had this.

    idea of where we want to go to school. But as I got to know my people and realized like, Hey, a lot of the things that I'm really good at, they're not good at. And a lot of things that I need to be better at, they're really good at. And so we got to kind of compliment each other. We got to kind of figure this out because it shouldn't be just what, like this shouldn't be just an embodiment of George, but us as a community. So we talked about that idea of kind of slowing down, getting to know the people you serve, getting to know their strengths.

    getting to know where they want to go and building that vision together, which is way easier. And I don't think I would have, I did that in my first year as a principal. I got better at it as it went because I realized that it's really hard to implement a vision that no one else is buying into. But if you build it, they're more likely to buy into it. So I think that was probably one of the biggest takeaways for me personally in writing this. And as we were kind of reading the chapters are going is like,

    The best way to build a vision for a school is not come in there and mandate it on people, but build it together.

    Vicki Davis (06:36)
    Well, I've read so many things that say people first is the only way to go because people first does get you results. when you sit down and your principal actually knows what's going on in your life. And, while I always want excellence in my classroom, the way he handles me this month might be different than next month or when I'm planning my son's wedding or, whatever is going on, those relationships and those expectations. And, I think

    That's what makes you feel valued when somebody actually knows you and works with you, because we've got a lot to juggle.

    George Couros (07:10)
    Yeah, it goes with the ebbs and flows of, you know, who who are as a person, right? I can't say that every day I had an education, I was having a good day, right? And there was a lot of bad days and I had people that really supported me when I struggled and I knew they would count on me. And I think a lot of times the worst days you have in education that's when you find out who you trust the most and who will be there for you the most. And then when you have those good days, they're way better because you want to go above and beyond for the people that supported you when things were going wrong. So yeah, that's something that.

    Vicki Davis (07:17)
    Yeah.

    George Couros (07:37)
    really kind of stuck out. I think the other part of it too that really connected with me was a lot of the best principals are very similar to the best teachers I used to think when I first started teaching the best teachers in the world, they could tell you October 12th at 1030 AM, here's where I'll be in math because they're going to get their kids there. And that's why, you know, they do their photocopying for the entire year, two weeks before and they were done. You'd never see them in that room again. And then I started to realize that I don't,

    I don't even know these kids. How do I know where they're at? Maybe they're ahead of it, maybe they're behind it. And so it's the same thing, right? With leaders, you don't know who you serve, so get to know them and kind of figure out along the way with them. there's a lot of these characteristics I think are applicable to teachers as well. because the whole thing about education, it's about elevation. How do we elevate those we serve?

    Vicki Davis (08:26)
    Oh, I love that. teaching is, it's iterative and it's responsive. that's one reason I love EdTech is because it lets me do formative assessment so rapidly. But if we go back to the personal thing, now I've got such a great principal because like the other day I got something that was kind of shocking I had to deal with. And I was like, okay, I just, talked to him. I said, Hey, I just got something shocking and I have my difficult class coming up.

    I'm just telling you that I may not be my best. And if these kids are not quite right, I might need to call you for some backup. And so he's in my room so often when I wrote about, my principal, principal Dyal I had been observed like five or six or seven times when I sent that tweet out in October and you sent me the message but because he's in my room so much,

    It's not unusual and the kids don't go into performance mode because he's just there all the time. And it's not like I'm worried or stressed when he's there, he's there for good reasons. And then he's also there for what I would call backup when I need it. And it's just such a great way to be a principal. And honestly, I had never seen it before. And I'm sure in the book, you have a lot of stories of people who kind of had epiphanies when they got that great principal.

    George Couros (09:46)
    Well, the whole book starts off with me like talking about a principal that changed my life, which I didn't even know that there was such a thing, a great principal. I just thought it was a role. And when you get a great principal, you know. And one of the things that you said, I think was she did this well and I tried to emulate it. I was in classrooms all the time and that that to me is exactly what you said. I was the youngest person on staff when I became a principal at my school.

    and just the title threw people off. People that were way better teachers than I ever was would get uptight when I'd walk in because they were used to what I call the superintendent's entourage. You know, people working in the board of trustees, totally a fake interaction. They're there for 10 minutes, you know, trying to get a feel of the classroom. But what kind of feel do you get? Everyone's kind of faking for 10 minutes. And so I went into the classroom all the time to make it.

    Vicki Davis (10:18)
    Mm -hmm.

    George Couros (10:41)
    just something that was expected and really to get to know the community. And this is one thing I used to say to my staff all the time, I'm not here to actually observe you. I'm here to observe the environment we're putting you in so that we can ensure that you have all of the things that you need. And I talk a lot about that in some of those situations where I saw something as a principal because I was in the classroom so often. And, Allyson does a great job of that as well. And I think that's something that's needed. If you're making decisions,

    that impact classrooms, you have to be in classrooms and not once in a while, but all the time. And that to me is something that really kind of stuck out and was something that I did not realize mattered as much. And I liken this and you know how much I love basketball. I said when there's a really great similarity between great referees and great principals is that when they're bad, you notice them.

    Like you know, the bad rep, right? Like you're like that ref, that ref, but when they're great, the game just goes on and everything's kind of flowing. And it doesn't, it doesn't mean they don't have an impact on the game, but you don't pay as much attention to them because they put everyone in a space to be successful. And that's that. I always think about that too, right? Like if you notice the principal all the time, probably not the best thing.

    Vicki Davis (11:39)
    Yeah

    Yeah.

    Well, and we're to the point where the kids are inviting him into class. Cause like, Hey, we're doing this presentation or we're doing this awesome project, or we want you to come see us do this. And so he'll say, Hey, your students have invited me to see this. I'm just letting you know I'm coming by. And, and that's just so great because he does focus on relationships with students and with teachers. And you know, isn't that what it's about? it's about changing people. So the book is.

    What Makes a Great Principal? The Five Pillars of Effective School Leadership. So excited about this book. So excited to be included in this book. thanks for coming on the show.

    George Couros (12:35)
    I'm so proud you're a part of it because there's no one who's influencing me more in this space than yourself. You have just really inspired me throughout the years and I've learned a ton from you and I'm so glad that so many other people are going to learn from you as well.

    Vicki Davis (12:49)
    Well, and I will say this, I adore your keynotes because I think every time I've seen you keynote, I think it might be three times now, I laugh and I cry. it almost feels like you're not presenting that you're talking to me. So I do hope post pandemic to get back in your audience and hear you present again, because I just really enjoy those stories. So the respect is mutual and I appreciate you taking the time today to talk about this.

    George Couros (13:16)
    Thank you so much, Vicki

     

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    The post Things That Will Make a Truly Great Principal appeared first on Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis @coolcatteacher helping educators be excellent every day. Meow!


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