Kristin Gilger had some great advice for us today. While visiting the state of pity was cathartic, she's right, our relationship with our boss is our own responsibility. If we "manage up" not suck up, we can advocate better for our students. I like the strategies she offered of using "I" statements, promoting compromise, and not just repeating a set of facts over and over, louder and louder.
I can easily apply her recommendations to my situation. Even though we don't operate under prior review, I can see that giving the administration a heads up and fair comment on an important or controversial piece is part of communicating as professionals.
Something I've learned is not to only go to the principal with problems and bad news. I make sure my principals know about big class projects, awards, and just small successes. What Kristin Gilger helped me think about is that when I do go to the principal with a problem, I should also come with a solution. Gilger also emphasized keeping the principal updated and in the loop, after all, they can't support me and my students if they don't know what we're doing.
Shannon Kuehmichel
Berlin High
Berlin, Wisconsin
Shannon Kuehmichel
Berlin High
Berlin, Wisconsin
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