Thermometer or Thermostat?

“When we take the time to research and develop leadership styles that are true to our beliefs and values, while at the same time encouraging others to develop themselves and their own leadership styles, we become ethical and transformational leaders. We lead from the front and have a staff that is very willing to follow and do some leading of their own.” (Miller, 2021).

This article not only expands on that concept, but also provides a unique analogy on effective leadership. It’s a “must read” for any administrator looking for ways to improve his/her ability to positively impact both teachers and students.

Reference:

Miller, D. (2021). Effective School Leaders Function Like Thermostats. Retrieved from https://www.middleweb.com/44595/effective-school-leaders-are-like-thermostats/

Are you biased?

Teachers can be committed to equity in their classrooms … but still be missing areas of bias in their own practice. In this blog post, Math teacher Jay Wamsted outlines five key areas where teachers can evaluate their pedagogy and classroom-management tactics for signs of bias.

Sharing this short article with your teachers can provide a great starting point for a deeper discussion of this important topic.

Four Leadership Examples

As the COVID 19 pandemic continues, school leaders across the country continue to face crises on multiple fronts, many of these having to do with the challenges of remote and hybrid learning.

This article highlights the work of four principals and how they are rising to the occasion. It is presented here both as a source for ideas and for inspiration.

Motivate with curiosity

Whether in the classroom or through distance learning, motivation is a key factor in student learning. Numerous studies have shown that as students interact with information, “emotional amplitude” (fun) can greatly increase retention.

This article offers insights into using curiosity to revive and enhance student interest. As Harvard researcher, Elizabeth Bonawitz, puts it, “Students feel more motivated and engaged when they have more control over what is happening.” And that’s especially true when you add fun to the equation!

While this is no surprise, it’s an important reminder in our current educational landscape.