How can I effectively support teachers and students? As I try to remember all the things that I have learned in leadership classes, university classes, and professional development experiences the answer usually comes down to conversations with educator's that I have connected with. For the most part, I have served alongside very dedicated, value driven, patient and kind educators.
One educator who always comes to mind is Susan Doty. She was a social studies teacher and we had some amazing conversations about school and life and politics and she could tell some great stories with that southern gravelly voice. These memories prompted me to begin looking for online clips of The West Wing because each Monday morning, during the tenure of The West Wing television show, we would get together and hash through the Sunday night episode and how President Bartlett, played by Martin Sheen, managed to get his way and save the day.
One montage I came across this evening was the "Top 10 Jedd Bartlett scenes" on YouTube. I began to watch through them and in one he is sparring with James Brolin's character, his opponent, in a presidential debate. The opponent gives a fairly contrived answer to a question from the moderator and in response President Bartlett says, "Okay, give me the next 10 words." That struck a chord with me. We have the big idea, but what comes next?
So think about it; after each point below: what are the next 10 words?
- School leaders wear many hats.
- Schools shouldn't be measured by test scores.
- Student apathy stands in the way of greatness.
- Clear communication is necessary with parents to insure school success.
- Read 20 minutes each night.
- Rigor in lessons creates confidence.
