I did not see the applications of ISLLC standards being used in decisions by my administration prior to knowing about the standards, however as I look back knowing the standards I can see the application in decisions. I prefer to infer a skillful application rather than a coincidental application after the fact. Much like a horoscope interpretation - a broad statement taking many interpretations. Rusty
I think that most school leaders agree with the principles of the ISLLC standards and I think they do follow the standards without actively following the standards, if that makes sense. I don't think the standards are taped to their computer monitor, but they do follow the standards because they're the logical ways to create a better school. I think some principals need to remind themselves of the standards from time to time and evaluate how their doing according to the standards because some are certainly doing better than others.
I haven't always seen every standard being applied, but I think that is because I'm in my classroom teaching. Standard 4 D is one I have seen improve this year. We have new community partners and they have been in our school volunteering. It's great. I agree with Julie that at times administrators may need reminders of the standards. Maybe they should do that in Principal Meetings. I also think as new administrators, it must be hard to concentrate on everything all at once. Melissa Gillie
I have only worked under one administrator but I believe I have witnessed many good traits that seem to fit the standards. The standards I see highlighted most by my principal are the ones regarding vision, community, and integrity. I see all standards in practice at varying times and degrees, but these three are what stand out to me. Angie Cornett
In my accounts I find that younger principals are more aware of the standards. In talking with my assistant principal (who is older) she doesn't seem to as familiar with the standards, but still is very professional and works with morals and ethics, which I think relates to the standards a great deal. Once those standards are understood it is just logical to follow them. I agree with Jill in stating that most administrators may follow them without realizing it.
My experience is a bit different since I am in higher education. Nevertheless, I find my VP to fit within the standards though they are not specifically applied to my field. A common theme in the posts so far is that most administrators follow the standards without even realizing it. These standards are a common sense guideline in providing for the well being of students and the school. Therefore, if the adminstrator has the best interest of the school and students it is likely she will generally follow these standards whether or not she realizes what she is doing. Meredith Marks
I will shift gears here and not comment on the standards per se but on one of the eight competencies as outlined in this chapter - the management of meaning, which is the ability to connect students and teachers (and the community) to the school in a meaningful way. How many of you see your principals and assistant principals doing this? To me, this is key: if your kids don't see any meaning in attending school, they drop out, and as we know, this is a big problem nationally. To be able to light that fire under students to learn and grow and under teaches to urge and inspire that growth is a phenomenal talent.
I have worked for 4 different administrators and while working with them the standards were never disscussed in detail. Now, knowing the standards, I reflect on the many talents that my previous and current administrator possess. While each one was very different they all had thier definite strong points. While some were excellent at community relations and developing a vision, others ran a well organized school with a heavy focus on curriculum. However, they all had one thing in common, everything was done in the best interest of the students. While the many responsibilites of being an administrator can be overwhelming, we need to keep in mind that everything we do is for the children. Christy Sparks
I think my school leaders promote much of the ISSLC standards in their daily role of administration. However, I would like to see more uniformity on discipline issues and improved collaboration with the inner school community in attempt to improve our school environment. In addition, I would like to see more motivation theories utilized for those students that are not successful with their standardized test.
Over the tenure at my school, there have been several changes in administration at all levels. Each administrator has handled school situations and problems differently according to their style of leadership. Although each had a different style of leading, each one seemed to follow the ISSLC standards in their own unique way. Darin Byrd
I feel similar to Darin, in that the different administrators I have worked under have applied the ISSLC standards in their own way. Each one applied the standards in a different way according to personality style and their own personal experiences. Some seemed to be more oriented toward the standards than others. I believe the standards can provide guidance for new administrators, helping them align decisions and actions with what has been proven to be essential to school success. Jake Leonard Carroll/Galax cohort
I have worked to different adminstrators and they ech had their own style. I have worked for a "1" and a "4" as we learned in Dr. Sellers class. Both had their good qualities and traits. One administrator actually mentioned the ISSLC standards in some faculty meetings and talked about "The Big Picture" within our school. They implemented their strategies in totally different ways, however they always got things done in a timely manner. I liked working for both of these administrators.
After working as SACS chair for eleven of my twenty-five years in education, I can say that I have seen the ISLLC standards in action; however, it wasn’t until Dr. Sellar’s class – my first in this program – that I became aware of the name for the practices that I had so often observed in the numerous administrators for whom I have worked.
After our last review – and a good one it was – our only mention for some more improvement was in the area of community involvement. This, I believe, had been an issue to some degree in every evaluation my school has seen over the past two and half decades. My current administrator is making a special effort to improve school/community relations – which is much easier now that we are in a top-of-the-line technology facility. Parents and community members are all anxious to come by and to be a part of things. Movita
After talking with my administrator about applying the ISLLC standards to the daily grind of administration, she told me it is something that is considered in every decision. In her words " I base my decisions based on the well being of the students and the big picture." I do believe that is the standard for the majority of the administrators I have worked for over the past ten years. Especially, the current principal I work for. However, I also feel as if it was not in the mind of some of the people I have worked for. They seem to have set their own agenda for what they believe is right, regardless of the consequences that effect students. I have learned that it is not an easy job to be a school leader, especially when every decision has to be weighed carefully.
Also to answer Kim's question, I think my current administrator does a great job of management of meaning... connecting the teachers, students, and community. It is something that takes time and a great deal of patience. It seems to be a tough job for a new principal to do. As the text mentions you have to have you staff trust you in your decisions involving them and involving students. Jason Morris
I have only worked under one administration during my time as a teacher. While, both the assistant principal and the principal strove to make sure the school was successful, I don't feel either of them followed the ISLLC standards to the letter. Most standards are applied within the school, but just like I don't do every single thing I was told I needed to do in order to be a successful teacher, a lot of the practices within the school are molded to fit the school and the situation. There are definitely some standards which could be emphasized more within the school, but overall the ISLLC standards are followed and appreciated. – Jennifer Campbell
I believe that the administration within my school demonstrates a knowledge of the ISLLC standards and both administrators strive to fulfill those in their own unique ways. I agree with many of the others posted here, that administrators are, for the most part, aware of the ISLLC standards, but also realize the need to interpret them differently depending on the setting or situation. As a Civics teacher I compare this to the US Constitution. All members of society interpret this, seemingly straight forward, document in many ways - but they are all trying to achieve the same goals - success for our nation. I believe our school system, administration, and the ISLLC standards work in the same way. Sometimes it's good to be conservative and keep things the way they have always been, but it's also important to offer change when it's needed or is beneficial. That is how I see the ISLLC standards being practiced within my school, as a flexible document that gives an administrator guidelines and a structure to follow, but allows for open interpretation based on need or individual morals as long as the result leads to the success of the school and student body. (Exactly like our state Standards of Learning, but that's a whole new discussion.)
I agree with the majority in that most administrators do follow the ISSLC standards whether they know it or not. I feel that the younger administrators do so more b/c they its more relevant and they are more energetic and concentrate to adhere to the standards. I have had the privilege to work with a couple different ones and they all have their own unique styles. I believe they each put into practice the heart, head, and hands approach, some more efficient than others, to promote a successful and positive learning and working environment. Some model and stress certain standards more than others, but they all have a distinctive style. This is a positive for me to be able to have worked for different principals with various styles. I believe that is what makes them who they are and what they stand for and it portrays great character and leadership, which is essential to becoming an educational leader. Israel Easter
I have two principals that are on two totally different ends of the spectrum when making decisions and managing the school in regards to the ISSLC stadndards. One of my principals for starters has no idea what they are and handles school issues completely on what he feels best for the school. Dont get me wrong he is in it for the best interest of the kids, but when adhering to the ISSLC standards he falls short. My other pincipal just went through Radfords adimin. progam and he is the model for the ISSLC standards. He still makes some decisions on gut feeling, but most of the time the ISSLc standads are being followed when it comes down to it. I love woking for both and I believe I benefit greatly because of the difference in styles.
I think that our administrators use the ISSLC standards. They are always thinking of what is best for the students in our school and community. I haven't seen them posted anywhere but they are being use daily. After our last class I learned what an administrators based their decision on. They always have to consider the students of their school. Another ISSLC standard use in our school is the big picture. We are always working on ways to improve our students learning. Whether a grant is being use to pay for a need in our school or a teacher is raising money for equipment to better our students needs in a classroom. I feel that the ISSLC are a guide for our administrators and it is being use daily. Jamie Cain
In reguards to the ISLCC standards, I feel that my prinicipal is really following the guidelines.The principal really tries to work on the vision as well as the school culture and instrucutional programs. Those are basically her strenghts. Also she really tries to involves her community and relates the big picture to the staff. As for as her character I am not sure but I feel she is a a good upstanding citizen.
I do think that the principal at my school applies the ISLCC standards. He uses Heart, Head, and Hand to make sure that he betters our school and makes it successful so that ISLCC standards are met. His vision is the building block to all of the other standards.
I think that my principal uses the ISSLC standards in his decision making, but uses them subconsciously. I don't think he sits down at every meeting and asks himself which ISSLC standards pertain to this situation, but I feel that he has the school's and the student's best interest at heart, therefore adhereing to them. Samantha Reed
I feel that my administrator uses the ISSLC standards in her decision making, however I believe that she has been thinking in this mode for such a time that is it second nature to her. I don't think she sits down and goes through the numbers like we do. She has been an administrator for 10 years or so and has taught some administration classes for Va Tech so I know she is up to date with the ISSLC standards.
After reading some of the post I think that a lot of principals use head, heart, and hand in their decision making. Some principals do not use the ISSLC standards and make rational decisions on what they think is best at that current time and in that current situation.
I think the ISLLC standards are an excellent tool that administrators can use as a source of guidance and inspiration. I can only guess at the amount of attention my current principal and assistant principal pays to the standards. I have seen an increase in attention to this "standardization" of leadership as the school has gone through the process of working with the state department to reach AYP goals in Math. In addition, a new superintendent has heightened everyone's awareness of what it means to do things "correctly." As a result, I think our administrators really have (intentionally or unintentionally) begun to strive to promote “the success of all students” through the use of the ISLLC standards. Thank you, Marlin Campbell
My principal and assistant principal differ greatly in their approach to leadership. Our assistant recently completed the program at Radford and she really thinks situations through and gets out the manuals to make sure she is following policy.I can really see what ISLLC standards she is following in most situations. Our principal is a people-pleaser and tries to please everyone. Both leaders do try to what they feel is best for the student.
I believe that my current administrator shows adherance to the ISLLC standards. He has demonstrated a vision of collaboration, especially, and has continued to carry that out all year in what he says and does. The management of our school has improved since he has been there. Also, the external community has been emphasized by having more parent involvement through newsletters, community landscaping of the school grounds, and higher attendance at PTSO meetings. -Shelly Goad
I have worked for my different administrators and they all have been very different. However, most of them have had one thing in common and that is that for the most part they have followed the ISLLC standards. My current prinicpal uses his head, heart, and hand when he is making most of his decisions. He also has a clear vision for our school and tries very hard to adhere to the standards. Most importantly, he is always trying to do what is best for the students.
When thinking of administrators i have worked for in the past, I feel all of them have followed some, if not all of the ISSLC standards. Some experienced administrators make decisions so quickly, they probably have lots of expererience. When you have lots of experience it must be easier to make most decisions. It must become easier to automatically follow the ISSLC standards over time. Misty Z
I agree with many of the previous posts when they say that prior to knowing about ISLLC standards, it only appeared that administrators were practicing common goals that many feel are necessary for a successful school. After becoming familiar with the ISLLC standards it is apparent that the administrators that I have worked with have abided by such standards, although not all, with a positive outlook on making the school and community a better place to recieve and adequate education.
I did not see the applications of ISLLC standards being used in decisions by my administration prior to knowing about the standards, however as I look back knowing the standards I can see the application in decisions. I prefer to infer a skillful application rather than a coincidental application after the fact. Much like a horoscope interpretation - a broad statement taking many interpretations.
ReplyDeleteRusty
I think that most school leaders agree with the principles of the ISLLC standards and I think they do follow the standards without actively following the standards, if that makes sense. I don't think the standards are taped to their computer monitor, but they do follow the standards because they're the logical ways to create a better school. I think some principals need to remind themselves of the standards from time to time and evaluate how their doing according to the standards because some are certainly doing better than others.
ReplyDeleteI haven't always seen every standard being applied, but I think that is because I'm in my classroom teaching. Standard 4 D is one I have seen improve this year. We have new community partners and they have been in our school volunteering. It's great. I agree with Julie that at times administrators may need reminders of the standards. Maybe they should do that in Principal Meetings. I also think as new administrators, it must be hard to concentrate on everything all at once. Melissa Gillie
ReplyDeleteI have only worked under one administrator but I believe I have witnessed many good traits that seem to fit the standards. The standards I see highlighted most by my principal are the ones regarding vision, community, and integrity. I see all standards in practice at varying times and degrees, but these three are what stand out to me. Angie Cornett
ReplyDeleteIn my accounts I find that younger principals are more aware of the standards. In talking with my assistant principal (who is older) she doesn't seem to as familiar with the standards, but still is very professional and works with morals and ethics, which I think relates to the standards a great deal. Once those standards are understood it is just logical to follow them. I agree with Jill in stating that most administrators may follow them without realizing it.
ReplyDeleteMy experience is a bit different since I am in higher education. Nevertheless, I find my VP to fit within the standards though they are not specifically applied to my field. A common theme in the posts so far is that most administrators follow the standards without even realizing it. These standards are a common sense guideline in providing for the well being of students and the school. Therefore, if the adminstrator has the best interest of the school and students it is likely she will generally follow these standards whether or not she realizes what she is doing.
ReplyDeleteMeredith Marks
I will shift gears here and not comment on the standards per se but on one of the eight competencies as outlined in this chapter - the management of meaning, which is the ability to connect students and teachers (and the community) to the school in a meaningful way. How many of you see your principals and assistant principals doing this? To me, this is key: if your kids don't see any meaning in attending school, they drop out, and as we know, this is a big problem nationally. To be able to light that fire under students to learn and grow and under teaches to urge and inspire that growth is a phenomenal talent.
ReplyDeleteI have worked for 4 different administrators and while working with them the standards were never disscussed in detail. Now, knowing the standards, I reflect on the many talents that my previous and current administrator possess. While each one was very different they all had thier definite strong points. While some were excellent at community relations and developing a vision, others ran a well organized school with a heavy focus on curriculum. However, they all had one thing in common, everything was done in the best interest of the students. While the many responsibilites of being an administrator can be overwhelming, we need to keep in mind that everything we do is for the children.
ReplyDeleteChristy Sparks
I think my school leaders promote much of the ISSLC standards in their daily role of administration. However, I would like to see more uniformity on discipline issues and improved collaboration with the inner school community in attempt to improve our school environment. In addition, I would like to see more motivation theories utilized for those students that are not successful with their standardized test.
ReplyDeleteOver the tenure at my school, there have been several changes in administration at all levels. Each administrator has handled school situations and problems differently according to their style of leadership. Although each had a different style of leading, each one seemed to follow the ISSLC standards in their own unique way.
ReplyDeleteDarin Byrd
I feel similar to Darin, in that the different administrators I have worked under have applied the ISSLC standards in their own way. Each one applied the standards in a different way according to personality style and their own personal experiences. Some seemed to be more oriented toward the standards than others. I believe the standards can provide guidance for new administrators, helping them align decisions and actions with what has been proven to be essential to school success.
ReplyDeleteJake Leonard Carroll/Galax cohort
I have worked to different adminstrators and they ech had their own style. I have worked for a "1" and a "4" as we learned in Dr. Sellers class. Both had their good qualities and traits. One administrator actually mentioned the ISSLC standards in some faculty meetings and talked about "The Big Picture" within our school. They implemented their strategies in totally different ways, however they always got things done in a timely manner. I liked working for both of these administrators.
ReplyDeleteCory Hawks Carroll County Cohort
After working as SACS chair for eleven of my twenty-five years in education, I can say that I have seen the ISLLC standards in action; however, it wasn’t until Dr. Sellar’s class – my first in this program – that I became aware of the name for the practices that I had so often observed in the numerous administrators for whom I have worked.
ReplyDeleteAfter our last review – and a good one it was – our only mention for some more improvement was in the area of community involvement. This, I believe, had been an issue to some degree in every evaluation my school has seen over the past two and half decades. My current administrator is making a special effort to improve school/community relations – which is much easier now that we are in a top-of-the-line technology facility. Parents and community members are all anxious to come by and to be a part of things. Movita
After talking with my administrator about applying the ISLLC standards to the daily grind of administration, she told me it is something that is considered in every decision. In her words " I base my decisions based on the well being of the students and the big picture."
ReplyDeleteI do believe that is the standard for the majority of the administrators I have worked for over the past ten years. Especially, the current principal I work for. However, I also feel as if it was not in the mind of some of the people I have worked for. They seem to have set their own agenda for what they believe is right, regardless of the consequences that effect students. I have learned that it is not an easy job to be a school leader, especially when every decision has to be weighed carefully.
Also to answer Kim's question, I think my current administrator does a great job of management of meaning... connecting the teachers, students, and community. It is something that takes time and a great deal of patience. It seems to be a tough job for a new principal to do. As the text mentions you have to have you staff trust you in your decisions involving them and involving students.
Jason Morris
I have only worked under one administration during my time as a teacher. While, both the assistant principal and the principal strove to make sure the school was successful, I don't feel either of them followed the ISLLC standards to the letter. Most standards are applied within the school, but just like I don't do every single thing I was told I needed to do in order to be a successful teacher, a lot of the practices within the school are molded to fit the school and the situation. There are definitely some standards which could be emphasized more within the school, but overall the ISLLC standards are followed and appreciated. – Jennifer Campbell
ReplyDeleteI believe that the administration within my school demonstrates a knowledge of the ISLLC standards and both administrators strive to fulfill those in their own unique ways. I agree with many of the others posted here, that administrators are, for the most part, aware of the ISLLC standards, but also realize the need to interpret them differently depending on the setting or situation. As a Civics teacher I compare this to the US Constitution. All members of society interpret this, seemingly straight forward, document in many ways - but they are all trying to achieve the same goals - success for our nation. I believe our school system, administration, and the ISLLC standards work in the same way. Sometimes it's good to be conservative and keep things the way they have always been, but it's also important to offer change when it's needed or is beneficial. That is how I see the ISLLC standards being practiced within my school, as a flexible document that gives an administrator guidelines and a structure to follow, but allows for open interpretation based on need or individual morals as long as the result leads to the success of the school and student body. (Exactly like our state Standards of Learning, but that's a whole new discussion.)
ReplyDeleteI agree with the majority in that most administrators do follow the ISSLC standards whether they know it or not. I feel that the younger administrators do so more b/c they its more relevant and they are more energetic and concentrate to adhere to the standards. I have had the privilege to work with a couple different ones and they all have their own unique styles. I believe they each put into practice the heart, head, and hands approach, some more efficient than others, to promote a successful and positive learning and working environment. Some model and stress certain standards more than others, but they all have a distinctive style. This is a positive for me to be able to have worked for different principals with various styles. I believe that is what makes them who they are and what they stand for and it portrays great character and leadership, which is essential to becoming an educational leader.
ReplyDeleteIsrael Easter
I have two principals that are on two totally different ends of the spectrum when making decisions and managing the school in regards to the ISSLC stadndards. One of my principals for starters has no idea what they are and handles school issues completely on what he feels best for the school. Dont get me wrong he is in it for the best interest of the kids, but when adhering to the ISSLC standards he falls short. My other pincipal just went through Radfords adimin. progam and he is the model for the ISSLC standards. He still makes some decisions on gut feeling, but most of the time the ISSLc standads are being followed when it comes down to it. I love woking for both and I believe I benefit greatly because of the difference in styles.
ReplyDeleteZack Dotson Carroll Co-hort
I think that our administrators use the ISSLC standards. They are always thinking of what is best for the students in our school and community. I haven't seen them posted anywhere but they are being use daily. After our last class I learned what an administrators based their decision on. They always have to consider the students of their school. Another ISSLC standard use in our school is the big picture. We are always working on ways to improve our students learning. Whether a grant is being use to pay for a need in our school or a teacher is raising money for equipment to better our students needs in a classroom. I feel that the ISSLC are a guide for our administrators and it is being use daily. Jamie Cain
ReplyDeleteIn reguards to the ISLCC standards, I feel that my prinicipal is really following the guidelines.The principal really tries to work on the vision as well as the school culture and instrucutional programs. Those are basically her strenghts. Also she really tries to involves her community and relates the big picture to the staff. As for as her character I am not sure but I feel she is a a good upstanding citizen.
ReplyDeleteI do think that the principal at my school applies the ISLCC standards. He uses Heart, Head, and Hand to make sure that he betters our school and makes it successful so that ISLCC standards are met. His vision is the building block to all of the other standards.
ReplyDeleteI think that my principal uses the ISSLC standards in his decision making, but uses them subconsciously. I don't think he sits down at every meeting and asks himself which ISSLC standards pertain to this situation, but I feel that he has the school's and the student's best interest at heart, therefore adhereing to them.
ReplyDeleteSamantha Reed
I feel that my administrator uses the ISSLC standards in her decision making, however I believe that she has been thinking in this mode for such a time that is it second nature to her. I don't think she sits down and goes through the numbers like we do. She has been an administrator for 10 years or so and has taught some administration classes for Va Tech so I know she is up to date with the ISSLC standards.
ReplyDeleteShane Reed
After reading some of the post I think that a lot of principals use head, heart, and hand in their decision making. Some principals do not use the ISSLC standards and make rational decisions on what they think is best at that current time and in that current situation.
ReplyDeleteCory Hawks- Carroll County Cohort
I think the ISLLC standards are an excellent tool that administrators can use as a source of guidance and inspiration. I can only guess at the amount of attention my current principal and assistant principal pays to the standards. I have seen an increase in attention to this "standardization" of leadership as the school has gone through the process of working with the state department to reach AYP goals in Math. In addition, a new superintendent has heightened everyone's awareness of what it means to do things "correctly." As a result, I think our administrators really have (intentionally or unintentionally) begun to strive to promote “the success of all students” through the use of the ISLLC standards. Thank you, Marlin Campbell
ReplyDeleteMy principal and assistant principal differ greatly in their approach to leadership. Our assistant recently completed the program at Radford and she really thinks situations through and gets out the manuals to make sure she is following policy.I can really see what ISLLC standards she is following in most situations. Our principal is a people-pleaser and tries to please everyone. Both leaders do try to what they feel is best for the student.
ReplyDeleteI believe that my current administrator shows adherance to the ISLLC standards. He has demonstrated a vision of collaboration, especially, and has continued to carry that out all year in what he says and does. The management of our school has improved since he has been there. Also, the external community has been emphasized by having more parent involvement through newsletters, community landscaping of the school grounds, and higher attendance at PTSO meetings. -Shelly Goad
ReplyDeleteI have worked for my different administrators and they all have been very different. However, most of them have had one thing in common and that is that for the most part they have followed the ISLLC standards. My current prinicpal uses his head, heart, and hand when he is making most of his decisions. He also has a clear vision for our school and tries very hard to adhere to the standards. Most importantly, he is always trying to do what is best for the students.
ReplyDeleteWhen thinking of administrators i have worked for in the past, I feel all of them have followed some, if not all of the ISSLC standards. Some experienced administrators make decisions so quickly, they probably have lots of expererience. When you have lots of experience it must be easier to make most decisions. It must become easier to automatically follow the ISSLC standards over time. Misty Z
ReplyDeleteI agree with many of the previous posts when they say that prior to knowing about ISLLC standards, it only appeared that administrators were practicing common goals that many feel are necessary for a successful school. After becoming familiar with the ISLLC standards it is apparent that the administrators that I have worked with have abided by such standards, although not all, with a positive outlook on making the school and community a better place to recieve and adequate education.
ReplyDelete