Four Tips For Educational Administrators

For some people, the idea of being called a rookie in the field of educational administration might seem slightly offensive or rude. After all, the reason you received a degree or certification in educational administration is because you are far removed from the rookie level, right? I am sorry to be the one to tell you that is not the case. Which brings me to my first tip, out of four, for rookie educational administrators.

Never Get Cocky

Talking tough and trying to get others to think you are superior to them is never a plan for success. You might succeed in getting people on your side, but you can never say that they will place full effort in the projects that you want to launch. If they are constantly thinking about making sure they look good in yours eyes, what time do they have to make contributions to the students?

It is perfectly acceptable to let others know that you are very skilled and knowledgable in your field. Welcome them to come to you with any questions or suggestions, and ensure them that you will give them valuable input based on an administrator’s perspective.

In short, make sure that you are working at a peer-to-peer level. That is the only guarantee that you will have honest respect for your abilities, allowing you to perform your duties at the highest quality possible.

Think About Those You Serve

Remember that your ultimate goal is to ensure that your students receive a quality education. Being in the position of an educational administrator, it is easy to get sidetracked and begin to prioritize finances, staff issues, and other daily problems over those of the students.

Making a conscious effort to benefit the students is noticed and appreciated by students, parents, and most importantly, the staff at your school. Again, you are trying to let educators konw that you are working with them with regards to the students’s well being.

Going Against The Waves

If you know that there are problems that need to be fixed, but are not experiencing any immediate difficulties, then something is out of place. If you going with the waves and taking the easy ride, it just means you are going around the problem instead of solving it.

There should always be some type of friction in the work of an educational administrator. This resistance, or going against the waves, is proof that change is needed and you are fighting through to get to that change. Letting issues slide by is never an acceptable option.

You Never Stop Learning

Make it a point to stay up to date on the latest in educational administration. Get involved with the various associations in the field, both state and national. Attend conventions and try to schedule workshops that will expose you to developing trends in educational administration.

Remember that the continuing education you receive benefits your school district, staff, and students both directly and indirectly. They deserve the best, and you are the one in the position to give it to them.

I have learned these lessons and I continually apply them into both my personal framework as an educational administrator and for those who I teach at seminars and workshops on the topic of educational administration. Remember that you not only represent your respective school district, but public education in general. Ensure yourself that you will make the choices, decisions, and recommendations to shine a postitive light on education.