2024 Thrive 1 - Leadership and how it get translated into the classroom

Taking the lens of a researcher, a visionary leader keeps talking. How one talks and the content he uses can quickly change the school's tone. A leader has a strong belief in something and he peaches consistently. This strong belief about something is reinforced by 20 years of principalship. What works and does not work. Respect and sincerity can be seen. Changes are meaningful. People will work hard and follow.

To me, content is not new but the sincerity is felt. The attempt to unpack and make things easy to understand is important. If teachers can relate to what a principal says, the words get repeated in the classroom. Don't disqualify yourself, we are here with you.

Another interesting phenomenon is the wearing of the tie. There is no need for discussion and there is no need for explanation. We know why it is important for all gentle and ladies to dress up. The students see the change. With more recess breaks, the students see it.

It has been wise to make changes that care for the people, not just the students but the teachers. Structural changes such as mixing sec 1 students, starting late (although it does not happen in reality,  the idea of that change has already had an impact). Care enough for teachers and students to be happy. The psychology of a leader is making positive change by talking. 

So it is not about being excited about what you are saying but being sincere. The belief that students can achieve and be stretched is the first clear message. This ideal is aligned with the belief that students can create knowledge. If you believe in it, it will happen. 

So why do the changes sound good? Change is not about adding, change is easily implemented, and change is something the teachers and students always wanted but did not talk about. How a leader is then like a designer, he knows about human needs and the change is to fill the gap.

Meta-reflection - This reflection has not been self-critiqued, it's just a think-aloud.

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