Monday Moanin Thoughts #10, Gratitude

This is a great week for everyone to practice gratitude. Make a commitment to seek out ten people and thank them for who they are and what they do. It can be students, staff members, community members, or family. This small act is a powerful way to appreciate one another. By practicing more gratitude and acting with more optimism, researchers believe that good health is enhanced. Read more

Monday Moanin Thoughts #9, Be Current and Proactive

Ouch, not another Monday Moanin. Be on top of your game this week. In most district’s, this week is the one before a few days off to celebrate Thanksgiving. It is a necessary time for all educators to be well planned and intentional in their practice. Many community members tend be a little antsy this week as they prepare for the break. Read more

Monday Moanin Thoughts #8 Communication

One more Monday to wake up to. I hope all is well in your school communities. I urge all school leaders to focus on communication this week.

As a leader , is it important to be in contact with your stakeholders. Develop a specific content schedule that organizes your communication within your school community. Read more

Monday Moanin Thoughts #7 Commitment

It is always tough getting revved up for another week. This week, try narrowing your focus and work at being proactive in the area of commitment. Read more

Monday Moanin Thoughts #6

At this time of  year many school districts are conducting parent teacher conferences. Last week I was attending my kids conference and upon leaving I couldn’t help but notice something. Although there were many parking places available in the lot that I was parked in, there were three cars parked  illegally in the circle right outside the school entrance. Read more

Monday Moanin Thoughts #5

Lots of thoughts from the last week;

I was talking to several HS students about challenges that they face on a daily basis. Near the top was the number of tests or assessments they have on the same day. Several of them shared  that it is not unusual to have three or four tests on most Fridays. Teachers, try asking your students about the amount of tests they are having and adjust your schedule. The goal should be learning and achievement for the student not you pacing guide or timetable.   Read more

Monday Moanin Thoughts #4 Validate

The theme of the week is validate. Across the Tri-County area of Michigan several schools have celebrated Homecoming week. The amount of planning, doing, and acting by students and staff to provide a positive experience for all is overwhelming. As a leader, validate the time and effort put in by these outstanding people. Read more

Monday Moanin Thoughts #3

  • If you have personality that is always seeking perfection and you are self critical when things don’t  go according to your plan, try focusing on being effective. This may help you achieve balance and you will operate with a high level of success. Perfect is tough, effective is achievable.
  • I co-facilitated a workshop with outstanding Principals from across the county this past week. I was so impressed with their knowledge, commitment, and willingness to improve and grow. Our students and schools are in fine shape if these are the caliber of  principals leading buildings. Bravo!
  • Principals, do you send out your  emails or does your secretary/assistant send them on behalf of you? Consider giving your assistant proxy to your account.  Bottom line, do it yourself,  critical and pertinent information should come from you.
  • Quote of the Week:

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Monday Moanin Thoughts #2

Some  thoughts from the last week. In Michigan, it is getting very frustrating that the Legislature is dealing with issues that attack teachers and  do little to help kids. The latest is to not allow districts to directly deduct  union dues as part of the paycheck, Really! Read more

Monday Moanin Thoughts

This is the initial post that will be here every Monday. It will be about hot topics of the day and my thoughts on current issues. Read more