ELCC Standard One: The 100 Greatest Education

EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY

I believe that an educational system isn’t worth a great deal if it teaches students how make a living but doesn’t teach them how to make a life (“The 100 Greatest Education Quotes”). As a building principal, I believe that I must look at the bird’s eye view of my school – not just the students, not just the teachers and staff, not just the curriculum, and not just at required tests but magnified to see the families and the community who contribute to molding our young people. Partnering with the “village” creates connections, openness, vision, and empowerment that strengthens all stakeholders. I believe in building relationships, developing leadership, and investing in the lives of those God has put on my radar.

ELCC Standard One: Educational Vision

Modeling and sharing the vision plan and the daily goals to accomplish the vision are extremely important to the success of students, teachers and the culture of the building. Connecting with stakeholders through personal connection, technology, and meetings will be important in keeping all stakeholders focused on the day-to-day mission and how that is feeding the continued improvement. Likewise, keeping the students apprised of the vision plan is equally important. Students need to know and be reminded that school is place to gain knowledge for life, and all stakeholders are extremely invested in that goal. In his book, Fullan quotes Mintzberg as saying, “The best way to ‘manage’ change is to allow for it to happen” (373). This implies that I must be open and innovative, setting clear and high expectations for all – including myself. I am not motivated by the threats of parental lawsuits but by student growth and accountability as well as future