Monday Moanin Thoughts #124 Focus On Culture As You Begin 2014-15

Happy Monday Moanin on the first Tuesday of September 2014. Today, most schools in the Midwest begin their first week of the  2014-15 school year. Building principals and their staffs have endured several professional learning days in preparation for the opening. As I reflect back on my years as a building principal , I remember  experiencing the first week with students exhausted due to planning and facilitating the opening of  a new year. The challenge for all principals is to not let fatigue impact your actions and performance when the students arrive. The tone you set as the instructional leader in the building is critical to all students and staff having the correct focus and attitude. The bottom line is the climate and culture of the building reflect your leadership. Baruti Kafele is a former high school and middle school principal that understands this role. He is an internationally renowned education speaker and consultant. His focus includes the” attitude gap”- the gap between those students who have the will to strive for academic excellence and those who do not.  As you begin the year try some of his strategies listed below. Take action and get to work at setting the correct tone and culture for your building. Make it a great beginning and enjoy a productive start for 2014-15. Here is the list:

• greet students as they arrive in the morning
• deliver a daily morning announcement about learning
• high visibility in halls and cafeteria by  the administrative team
• encourage and support all student activities
• let your staff and students know that you believe in them
• let your staff and students know that you care about them

Quote of the week:

Rita Pierson implores;” Every child deserves a champion- an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.”

Have a great week and keep finding the good stuff.