Monday Moanin Thoughts #306 Ideas From Previous MMT’s

Welcome to another July 2018 Monday Moanin. I hope that all of you are having a great summer. This week may be a great one to begin planning for 2018-19. After some reflection, I am posting three excerpts from my previous 305 Monday Moanin Thoughts. Hopefully they will be timely and helpful as you begin your week and your thoughts for the upcoming year.

From October 9, 2014 # 131

I am blessed to meet with so many talented educators that are successful in leading their schools and communities. Effective leaders have a  lot in common and share many characteristics. Getting their staff to work hard, find common ground, and encourage them to work together  is critical to establishing a culture that is about student learning. I work with many teams that are building this culture in their buildings. Listed below are three ideas or quotes from Paul Bambrick-Santoyo that can help you guide your work this week.  They are:

“Student culture is not formed by motivational speeches or statements of values. It is formed by repeated practice—using every minute of every day to build good habits. From opening morning routines to the final bell, students receive a constant message that nothing is as important—and engaging—as learning.”

“Great staff cultures don’t come from irreplicable charisma; they come from a consistent number of tiny actions that create a strong foundation. From hiring to on boarding to daily interactions, exceptional leaders keep their ear to the rail to ensure a positive, joyful, strong staff community.”

“Without great culture, student learning cannot thrive.”

March 26, 2017, #247

For many of you this will be the final week of school before a much deserved spring break. Several years ago I read a blog by Sheryl Nance-Nash about things leaders should say. As a result, I thought it would be a great time to post something similar by listing 5 things we should here often in schools from all leaders. I believe  these are  some of the right words and phrases that can keep your organization growing and moving in a positive direction.

1. “We’re a team and we can do this.” No one takes the credit, the community shares it.
2. “I don’t know.” Being honest and not faking an answer helps build trust.
3. ” I’m sorry.” When you mess up, own it and then move on.
4. ” Where is the learner in that decision?”  All things in a school should relate back to the learner.
5. “Thank you.” Appreciate one another and recognize others for their contributions to the organization.

This list is certainly incomplete and may be viewed as a start to reflect on and produce a more complete one. Ask your staff,  what  are the words and phrases we should hear in our school?

November 28, 2016 #232

Happy Monday Moanin to all of you. My thoughts today are inspired by recent readings from We Are Teachers, John Maxwell, and observing outstanding leaders doing their work. Below are three things that have jumped out at me that are consistent behaviors and intentional strategies that are common among great leaders. They are:

• Great leaders lead with hope and with a positive purpose. During challenging times and difficult issues they do not lose their way.  They encourage and raise others up.
• Great leaders lead with respect. They do not put themselves above others and treat everyone in their organization with dignity.
• Great leaders build a trusting environment. As a result, staff can feel comfortable to do their best work with confidence and creativity.

Consider focusing on these three areas during the next few weeks. I believe it will only enhance your performance.

Have a great week and keep finding the good stuff. Enjoy your summer!