Congratulations on your new school administration job!
Whether you're the new school administrator, head of school, headteacher, principal, vice-principal, or director of a school, starting a new role in school administration is an exciting yet challenging journey. It's a chance to influence the course of education and make a difference in the lives of so many children and employees. However, navigating through this maze of responsibilities can sometimes lead to common, avoidable mistakes.
Don't fret! I'm here to help you kick start your journey on the right foot. Let's talk about the three big mistakes to steer clear from when you take on a new school administration job.
1. Moving too Fast
One of the most common mistakes that new administrators make is being too quick to implement changes. I know how you're so enthusiastic and ready to make an impact. However, rushing into initiatives without fully understanding the school's vision, mission, culture, its strengths, weaknesses, and the unique dynamics can lead to unnecessary hurdles.
Your first few weeks should primarily be about listening and learning. Get to know the staff, students, parents, and the community. Understand the ethos of the school and how things work. Then, gradually begin making informed changes based on that understanding.
Change is good, but it is most effective when it is planned, paced, and inclusive. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day!
2. Neglecting Communication
Ever heard of the phrase, "Communication is key"? This holds particularly true in school administration. New administrators often underestimate the power of effective communication. Do not make the mistake of not communicating regularly or transparently enough with your staff, students, and parents.
As an administrator, your role is to be the bridge between different stakeholders - the faculty, students, parents, the school board, and the wider community. Consistent, clear, and compassionate communication can help foster trust, clear any confusion, and establish you as a reliable leader.
Hold regular meetings, use emails or newsletters for updates, or create an open-door policy for people to feel comfortable approaching you. You are not just a figurehead but also an integral part of the team. So, remember to communicate, communicate, and then communicate some more!
3. Forgetting Self-Care
School administration is a demanding job. Between budget meetings, curriculum planning, conflict resolution, training sessions, and a host of other tasks, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and forget about taking care of yourself. But remember, you can't pour from an empty cup!
If you have read my book, Dear Educator, you'll recall what I talked about in one of the chapters where I told the effect of having no rest on me after working for three school years in a row. I had a burn out and simply couldn't function well after that until I took a much-deserved rest.
It's not uncommon for new administrators to push themselves to the brink of burnout, and that's a mistake you want to avoid. Remember to set boundaries, manage your time effectively, and make time for relaxation and hobbies. Eating healthily, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep are not luxuries, they are necessities for you to function at your best. Also find a hobby. And ahve a coach as well.
A school functions at its best when its leaders are at their best. So, don't neglect self-care. It’s not selfish; it’s essential.
Starting a new role in school administration is a thrilling adventure, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Avoid these three common mistakes, and you're on your way to creating a positive and impactful tenure at your new school. Remember, every successful journey begins with a single step in the right direction.
I wish you a fulfilling and successful journey in shaping the future of our next generation as you start your new school administration role!
If you'd like me to coach you to succeed massively on this new role, please reach out by scheduling a coaching session with me at www.calendly.com/nancyekpezu.
I also have lots of templates and books and recourses to make your job easier at www.selar.co/m/nancyekpezu.
