During the coursework for the Superintendent certification I have grown in my overall knowledge and understanding of the leadership role of the superintendent. The collaborative experiences of the program have set the stage for future collaborative work with superintendents across the state. I have found in this recent self-assessment and reflection regarding the SBEC Superintendent Competencies that my learning has increased in all areas.
Domain II - Instructional Leadership – Competencies 5 – 7 continues to be the area of greatest strength. This area has been the focus of my work and leadership experience for the past 15 years, so it is natural that it would be an area of strength. I have worked at the campus, district and national level to implement strategic plans that enhance teaching and learning; develop rigorous, aligned curricula; utilize data and accountability systems to measure learning; and implement effective staff development for student and staff professional growth with success in every situation. I will continue to grow in this area by professional organizational relationships, seeking leadership roles outside my school system, and continued professional learning.
Additionally, I found Domain I - Leadership of the Educational Community – Competencies 1 – 4 to be an area where there was a mixture of strength and competency. This is an area I have grown in and learned much in during this coursework. The coursework has helped me understand the importance of communicating equitably and effectively with all stakeholders in the district community. A superintendent is THE superintendent for the entire district community, not just the school community, and has the great privilege of sharing the vision with all stakeholders. While I have a basic understanding of Competency 4, it is still the competency within Domain I that I need to continue to develop. I have had very little experience working directly with the school board to achieve the district’s educational vision.
Domain III – Administrative Leadership – Competencies 8 – 10 is still my area of greatest need for growth. Due to the recent budget restraints placed on Texas schools, it was my expectation that I would learn and grow in the area of district budgeting through my coursework. However, due to problems with the course materials, I did not learn as much in the Finance course as I expected. I also have very little experience in the area of school facilities. I will continue to focus my learning in the areas of financial managment and facilities management.
Hey, Shelley! I think you are wise to continue to focus learning opportunities in financial and facility management. I am feeling that same need. I highly recommend you consider serving on a bond committee, if you ever have a chance. I found that to be great learning ground for both of those areas. I also think that the development of the board relationships are critical. I would say you gave your reflection great thought!! Good luck !!
ReplyDeleteShelly, I agree that the areas of financial and facility management are areas I would need to focus on as well. I think these are some of the areas that you have to get the "hands-on" experience to really know how to handle issues that arise in these areas. I also feel the networking with others in the same position or with the same goals is a great idea and one I plan to conitune.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Krin in that we need to get "hands-on" experience before we will feel competent in the areas of facilities and finances. The question remains how do we build those skills? I know that the first step to learning anything is to acknowledge what you don't know, to see a need to acquire that knowledge, and then to develop a plan for gaining that knowledge.
ReplyDeleteI also believe on hands-on experience. Great job.
ReplyDeleteI guess I'll jump on the bandwagon with the comments about finances and facilities. And along with Krin and Debbie, "hands-on" is crucial but how do we get that experience. Buidling relationships with our cohort members and fellow administrators will strengthen our performances as educational leaders.
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