Why I am an educator? Why do I lead?

Why I am an educator?

My most simple response to this question is because of the positive experience I had as a student.  I was fortunate to attend several good schools and, more importantly, have had some great teachers and coaches who left a lasting impact on my life.  My best teachers took an interest in me beyond the classroom. My best coaches taught me more than just the fundamentals of the game; they connected the game to life. As an educator it has always been my goal to give students a meaningful educational experience like I was fortunate to have.  I sincerely feel that my faith and my supportive parents combined with a solid educational experience prepared me for the challenges life brings. I hope to be part helping the next generation reach their potential in preparation for life in this ever-changing society.

Why do I lead?

I lead because somebody needs to do it.  Why not me?  I don’t necessarily see myself as a “leader”, at least not in the sense of somebody who is a charismatic individual that others rally behind.  I see myself as somebody that is willing to do what other won’t do when it needs to be done.

I have a hard time putting into words why I strive to be a leader.  I feel this video sums up what I hope to do.  I am far from a shirtless dancing guy (the only time I have danced was my wedding 10 years ago and am far too high on the BMI scale to have my shirt off in public), but I hope to be part of a movement that takes our school on a continuous path of improvement - one where students and staff are empowered to reach their potential.  

1.  I feel like I have the guts to stand alone.  Easy to talk about and blog about...I am sure I will soon be tested and need to walk the talk.  I don’t necessarily see this as always standing alone; but standing for what is right (and best for kids), but not necessarily popular.  

2.  New followers emulate followers.  I understand the importance of nurturing the first followers and treating them as equals - we are all in this together.   

3.  Leadership is over glorified.  I want to courageously follow and be an example to others how to follow while providing support and guidance along the way.

Above all, I lead to be an advocate for kids and be part of giving them the best educational experience possible - one that will be memorable for them in a positive way as well as one that provides them the opportunities to reach their potential and meet the personal goals they set for themselves.

Giving Blogging a Try

I'm not sure how this is going to work, not at all.... I guess I’ll just get started. Over the years (especially the past few since I was introduced to Twitter) I have read and followed many blogs and have always been impressed with the reflective and thought provoking words people are able to put together.   I have always enjoyed reading about peoples successes and appreciate it when they go out on a limb and share their struggles and how they have overcome obstacles to move forward.  There are many wise educators across the globe and I appreciate their willingness to share their gifts and talents, whether it be within the brick and mortar of a school, or digitally through a blog.  

So far, I have been strictly a consumer of this information.  While I visit Twitter daily, follow along with various chats weekly, and occasionally re-tweet somebody elses thoughts; I haven’t shared any personal thoughts or reflections. I feel I have really grown as a professional as a result of educators sharing via Twitter and blogs.  I’m not sure I’ll be able to put anything out there that is beneficial to others, but I imagine through the process of thinking and writing I will reflect on my own practice and, hopefully, grow as a result of it.

I wish I could say that personal reflection was my only motivation for giving this a try.  A few weeks ago I came across the School Administrator Virtual Mentor Program #SAVMP on Twitter.  I thought this would be a great opportunity to connect with, and be mentored by, a time-tested and proven educator.  I’m not even sure if I will be fortunate enough to be selected for the program, but one of the requirements is to keep an open blog to share their learning with the world... so I thought I would get started before the grind of the school year starts in a few short weeks.

Anyway, I’m not exactly sure where this blog will go. I have some ideas, but time will tell... I’ll get started tonight, embrace the process, and get better as I go.