Teachers are leaders (of people) and managers (of processes). Both roles require significant effort and attention. Those who are most effective and transformational are those who are:
Visionary: They create solutions to meet the problems their students face. They inspire hope when things look very hopeless. They are imaginative and creative when facing the future; they often say, “Hey, I have an idea!” These teachers are innovative with their insights. They are perceptive and intuitive, which are especially helpful because not all students articulate their needs.- Utterly relentless…unstoppable. The teachers never give up. If there is a way, they will find it. Children need such a passionate cheerleader in their lives.
- Positively impatient. They can’t wait to get where they are going, because they can see what’s possible as clear as day. They take this expectant attitude into their teaching and enthuse students to look ahead and anticipate the next chapter.
- Full of purpose. These teachers work with Ho’ohana (intent and purpose). How they work complements how they live their lives. They bring meaning, fulfillment and fun to their classrooms. They not only personally work this way, they encourage their students to do their work with the same intent and purpose. Work becomes meaningful and worthwhile and satisfying.
- Leaders of students. These teachers know they lead by example and seek to be the very best model possible. Leading students is a great responsibility. It focuses on character development, building trust and earning respect. They inspire with optimism and hope!
As you are most likely in your second semester of this school year, it’s time to focus on being an Alaka’i leader. Think about these five qualities – how are you doing? Which students need more of your attention at this time? Who needs to be inspired and encouraged? If you answer, “The entire class!” then focus on what would impact the entire class first. Then, look for the individual students to need extra attention. Dear teacher, lead the way!
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This is good advice Dean, for I would imagine these two efforts working in tandem, simultaneously done:
There is also that element of self-leadership which is critically necessary in both managing well and teaching well; it is a matching up of intention (Ho‘ohana) and attention given to others in a directed way versus broadcasting and simply hoping something sticks!