Limiting Your Priorities

There’s an old saying: “Never let the URGENT crowd out the IMPORTANT!”

One way to do this is by establishing priorities and revisiting those daily. However, as the author of this article points out, “It’s particularly challenging to choose priorities in the field of education because schools are bombarded by so many initiatives …” and conversely, “When you have too many priorities, you get less done.”

The article lists five guiding questions that can help you downside your list of priorities, thus narrowing your focus to what really matters for your teachers and students. Taking time to answer and apply these could result in less stress, increased effectiveness, and a better environment for everyone concerned.

The Power of Praise

A recent study by researchers at Brigham Young University found that middle-school students respond more to praise than criticism, especially when it comes to curbing problem behaviors.

By focusing on praising desired behaviors at least as much as reprimanding undesirable behaviors, teachers were able to improve overall class conduct by up to 70%.

In other words, this no-cost technique can result in significant improvement without any financial burden. That’s something all educational administrators should love!

Tips for Difficult Decisions

Over the past year, numerous divisive issues have forced school leaders to make difficult decisions … from controversies over mask mandates, to arguments over the so-called “critical race theory,” to increasing teacher burnout, to serious shifts in funding … not to mention those localized crises that also require hard choices.

Recently, Kevin Bushweller and Arianna Prothero of Education Week interviewed principals and school leadership experts across the country to see how they’re handling these kinds of tough decisions. This article distills those interviews into seven decision-making tips.

Elemiddles?

Over the years, there has been a constant pendulum swing between K-8 schools versus middle schools. The research goes back and forth, and the districts go back and forth … but more often than not, districts make that decision based on financial concerns rather than what’s best for children.

This article examines the phenomenon of “elemiddles” and how some districts believe they are vital to creating the conditions for success. It’s well worth reading, if only to gain a broader perspective.