The Language We Use …

As administrators (and future administrators), we hear a lot about transformational leadership. But have you ever considered the language you use and the underlying connotations it may suggest?

Shepherd’s article (2022) on this topic caused me to take a step back and think more deeply about this issue. And the differentiation he makes between “complicated” and “complex” problems was especially thought-provoking.

Feel free to give it a read and see if you don’t find some interesting takeaways, too! The concepts outlined have the potential to greatly enhance your efforts at team building and school improvement.

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/