While working on schedules for Hybrid model for the upcoming new academic school year, I get a WhatsApp message from my principal asking “Would you mind doing a reflection for the bulletin this week?” Here I was a little bit confused and thought we had to write what we usually write and asked if that’s what she meant. Clearly I was wrong and she replied back with “ Not your usual. A reflection of your year. What did you enjoy about virtual school and what did you learn about yourself as a leader?” I quickly replied back with absolutely NOT and I got a thank you back. I lost all concentration on schedules and my mind started wondering about her two questions. I let it sink and thought about it a lot. I didn’t write anything down till the next day. I remember thinking about it before I fell asleep.
Next morning I got to the office and started typing away…
What did I enjoy about Virtual School?
- Being able to pop into classes a lot more than usual and seeing all the shy students shine and participating.
- Being present in ALL team meetings while discussing, planning and collaborating. (Something I rarely got to do pre-pandemic.)
- I was able to be there a lot more for our ES staff when they needed me. IF not face to face then by phone or WhatsApp messages.
- Doing more actual AP work.
- I was able to sit in a few curriculum meetings as I need to grow in that area. I understand a bit more but definitely still need work in that area.
What did I learn as a leader?
- Things will move on regardless of how each one feels.
- PLANNING for the academic year sets you up for success.
- Last minute changes will happen and THAT’S OK! No need to sweat over it
- Patience is a virtue!
- Learning to say NO to certain issues is OK!
- Always expect the unexpected.
- I don’t need to know all the answers at all times!
- Plenty of mindfulness is needed during a pandemic and online screen time.
- “ME” time is important for my sanity.
- Don’t speak while you are upset, give it time to settle, gather your thoughts and then have that meeting or hard conversation.
- Always have a backup plan.
- You can’t please EVERYONE! And that’s PERFECTLY fine. 🙂
- Stay calm and positive while presenting to my staff, many are watching and hearing how I convey the message and teachers feed off of my energy.
- Being able to switch hats depending on who walks into my office.
- I grew professionally, when I was pushed out of my comfort zone and put in an uncomfortable situation. I have my principal to thank for that!
- Letting go of feelings and things that are beyond my control.
And the list goes on…
What’s your reflection over this crazy roller coaster year?
