Budget Reflection

Another great assignment to see a different side of administration that we do not see day to day as a teacher.  It was interesting to see where monies where allocated.  The reasoning for where the money would be put always came back to how it can positively affect student achievement.  It was great to see how closely the principal, GIS, and office manager work together with school finance.  All three of them had input when working on the budget assignment.  Everyone had there own responsibilities, yet it was clear that my principal knew what was going on.  This is something that I remembering hearing at our last class meeting.  Although you delegate the work, as a principal you still want to make sure you know what is going.  Stay in the loop.  It was nice to see how it worked at my school.

Fact to Fact Reflection

This was a great class that was very informative for any future administrator.  We started the night with three presenters from Clovis, Sanger, and Visalia.  We learned the importance of the hiring and firing process.  It was made very clear from all districts that "you are who you hire".  It is important to take the time and do the background  checks on candidates for a job in your district.  Also, they all continued to make sure we understood the importance of documentation.
Next we had CADA come in and talk to use about listening and respect.  We did a great activity, which showed us how to truly listen with respect by not interrupting.  That was a bit challenging, especially when you want to agree and tell your story.  It was a great way to show what it is to listen respectfully.
Listening to Dr. Terry Bradley was such a great opportunity.  His explanation of school finance, history of different propositions, court rulings, and components of a budget was extremely informative.  After listening to him made me realize that I have so much to still learn.  I am thankful to know that we have a great support system in our district and that there is always someone who can answer your questions.

Putting it all together

Through out this book there was so much valuable information for leadership.  In the end it felt like all connectors begin with building relationships.  When you build a relationship you build trust, safety, communication, the ability help yourself and others find balance, and trust from others about your competence.  The key is relationships.  A great leader has the ability to build a healthy and positive one with their staff.  I aspire to be able to have a staff that looks up to me with a positive outlook.  It is about valuing what we have and treating it delicately. I hope to be remembered and touch so many lives as Jeff did.