Things School Administrators Should Say Daily (But Usually Don't)

School administrators say plenty (and hopefully DO plenty - see "walk the talk").  Some administrators like to talk because they seem to like to hear themselves - all the time.  Some, like me, enjoy talking as much as the next person, but tend to choose our words more carefully.  Thus, we may not speak as frequently, but are just as effective.

Either way, there are certain messages that should be communicated daily.

Whether you like to improvise or stick to the script, here are a few things that school administrators should say daily.

• Good morning.
• What are you learning (teaching) today?
• How is your day (week, semester, year, etc.) going?
• How can I help?
• How is (insert project, plan, new initiative, etc.) working?
• What do you want to do?
• What does that look like at this school (share your vision)?
• Is there a more effective and/or more efficient way to accomplish our mission?
• What have you done today to be a better student (teacher, administrator, etc.)?
• What have you done today to help someone else be a better student (teacher, administrator, etc.)?
• Keep up the great work.
• I appreciate all you do.
• I'm sorry.
• Thank you.
• I'll see you tomorrow.

Note:  You will recognize that many of the items above are questions rather than statements.  That is a result of my belief in administrators asking many questions to engage in the life of the school, to demonstrate genuine interest in teaching and learning, and gather feedback on the school environment.

Also, if you notice that you are asking some of the questions to yourself, it is NOT a sign that you are going crazy.  Rather, you are simply reflecting on your own practice.

Feel free to add your own statements or questions by leaving a comment.