Monday Moanin Thoughts #336 It’s October, Focus On The Fundamentals

Welcome to the first Monday Moanin of October, 2019 to all of you. It is hard to believe that for most of you the first month of the 2019-20 school year is in the books. Typically the first month  of a new year is front loaded with many activities and a fast pace filled with numerous adjustments. October signals a time when most school staffs and administrators  are settling into their routines and schedules.  They are also showing the  initial signs of fatigue. As a result, this is a great time to refocus on some essential   fundamentals to enhance your performance as a leader. During this week, practice the following three fundamentals.

• Pay attention. Begin with your learners and then move your focus to all other stakeholders. Ask yourself, what do they need and how can I help?
• Check for understanding. Don’t assume that stakeholders are following your lead or that they are reading your emails or listening to your directives. Use “one-legged conferences” or daily checkins to determine what needs to be reinforced.
• Be liberal with specific praise. Using general statements usually is insufficient to demonstrate recognition and appreciation. Use their names and do not shy away from public acknowledgement.

Good luck , have a great week and keep finding the good stuff.