Thinking Differently...

As a principal I am always encouraging my teachers to be risk takers and think differently when it comes to their instructional practice.  It is easy for me to tell others what they need to be doing but I often remind myself that I need to be taking risks right along side my teachers.  This shows them that I am practicing what I preach and I am putting myself out there risking failure to do what is best for our students and school.  

I will tell you it is not easy to put yourself out there.  Fear of failure is real, even for me.  I will also tell you that when you take a chance, do something differently, try a different approach, the outcomes are often more rewarding because your ownership is greater.  The sense of accomplishment is higher.

As a school leader I believe it is imperative to model risk taking and thinking differently for teachers and students.  If you want your teachers to be brave enough to change what they are doing they need to see you doing the same.  If you expect your teachers to create a risk taking culture and environment in their classroom, you need to be doing the same as their leader.  You will find that as you think differently and take risks your school will begin to improve and transforms before your very eyes.

I would love to hear about your risk taking and thinking differently in your classroom and school.  Post comments below or reach out to me on social media!

Think. Achieve. Succeed.

Jeff