Journet - Week 3

This weeks readings in both AMLE and in the article were very informative.  Reading about effective school leadership really made me think about what type of school I would love to teach in.  I also nodded my head in agreement with many points made about school organization and leadership.  The first characteristic of effective leader that AMLE talks about is shared vision.  It states that a shared vision developed by all stakeholders guides every decision.  I feel that this is important for everyone involved.  Having a clear shared vision developed by teachers, students, parents, community and administration will help in making big decisions for the school.  Decisions about curriculum, school activities, functions, programs, climate, discipline, fundraising and so much more.  In the article, one of the five key responsibilities of  an effective principal is to establish a vision of academic success.  In my 10 years as a paraprofessional I have seen great school vision which was communicated to all stakeholders by the principal.  This principal refers to it often and those involved take it seriously because the principal does.  I have also seen a great vision put in place but it wasn't honored or enforced.  The people under that school administrator didn't have a clear understanding of the vision and didn't really follow through with the vision.

While reading AMLE, one of my head nodding moments was when I read the characteristic on courageous and collaborative leaders.  It states Leaders demonstrate courage and collaboration.  "Effective leaders challenge and change practices that do not serve students' best interests and confront issues not in line with the vision." (AMLE 2010)

I took this characteristic to heart because I have been in situations where I have had to speak for the best interest of students.  It takes so much courage to speak up and challenge people who have authority over us.  However, having a clear vision to use as a foundation makes it easier to state your concerns about students.  It makes it easier to advocate for their best interest.  It takes courage to speak up especially when you don't want to lose your job if you challenge something that does not serve your students.  In my earlier days as a paraprofessional, I use to be guilty of being complacent and quiet if I saw something that was not in line with our school vision because of fear of being outcasted among my colleagues and maybe losing my job.  I have come a long way and I have grown braver.  I also think that an effective Principal makes establishes a climate where we can talk to them about a situation that we feel isn't working or is not in the best interest.  I have spoken up and advocated for my students and myself.  I feel heard and validated.  We collaborate and come up with clear goals and implement changes together.  Sometimes as paraprofessional we feel that we don't have a say in things but I have learned that we do have an impact and our voice is important.   I have spoken up to teachers, principals and others school staff in a kind and professional way.  Like I said an effective principal makes it easy to challenge and change practices even if you are "just a para" so to speak.

When I go through the teacher hiring process no matter how badly I need a job, I will ask about the school vision and I will ask if it is being followed before I even apply to a school.  I want to work for a school where their is a shared vision that is clear and visible to an outsider looking in.