Blog
Leadership Reflections from a 1st Year AP
Starting my journey as a first-year assistant principal at a K-5 Elementary school marks a significant shift after 15 years in education, transitioning from special education teacher to higher education professor and supervisor of student teachers. Despite opportunities to pursue leadership earlier, I hesitated, realizing the importance of aligning my values with those of past school administrators. Observing a trend of leaders with limited classroom experience, I recognized the crucial link between strong leadership and pedagogical expertise.
Forging a New Trail
“Have you been to Hancock Falls?” A neighbor recently asked me this question. I am fortunate to live in a place where there are hiking trails right off my driveway. I’d been to Thompson Falls, as that trail is well marked. But Hancock Falls? I’d never seen a sign or any marking on a trail map. I asked my neighbor to point out the trail. His response surprised me. He shared the general direction in which to head, but then explained I would have to “bushwhack” when I came to the end of the trail. For those who are not familiar with the term, it meant I had to leave the marked trail and venture further into the woods if I wanted to find the falls.