Leadership

I want to lead because, as the education system continues to change, I wouId like to be at the forefront of this change.  I want to actively engage in the long term planning process and move beyond the immediacy of today into the possibilities of tomorrow.  I feel that I possess all of the qualities that make an effective leader: focus, passion, confidence, integrity, and respect.  My strongest leadership characteristic is my ability to lead by example which shows those that follow me that I am willing to meet the same expectations that I have set for them. Through these characteristics, I hope to achieve the following goals: establishing an environment for success, having the courage to make the tough calls, and communicating and behaving in ways that motivate and inspire others.  I will never stop honing my leadership skills.  Through hard work and effort, I plan to continue to grow both personally and professionally.  As a leader, I hope to develop the skills necessary to achieve several goals including: articulating a vision, motivating educators to work together, and encouraging others to focus on the vision of educating students. Accomplishing these goals will make me a more effective leader which is vital to school success.

The personal needs that underlie my motivation to lead are the ability to improve myself and work on my areas of weakness.  In order for me to be a successful leader, I want to be able to understand the needs of others, demonstrate a level of commitment, be energetic, possess courage of conviction, and exhibit integrity. I also plan to work on my ability to promote change, solve problems, and make decisions that encompass maturity, conviction, and expertise.

The educational needs that underlie my motivation to lead are accomplishing my goals of getting my superintendent certification, and continuing my education to obtain a doctorate degree in educational leadership.

My accomplishments, during my internship, that have prepared me to lead school improvement include providing me the opportunity to integrate current,relevant, research with best practices for successful school district leadership, developing knowledge of budgeting practices, accountability systems, audit reports and practices, funding formulas,ethical standards, and administration of funds, building community partnerships, leading school districts during change, demonstrating ethical leadership and building relationships, learning information on facilities planning, student safety, funding, energy management, new construction and renovation, and the relationship of appropriate facilities to student performance, and being exposed to real life applications which have helped me to develop the knowledge, skills and competence required for administrative leadership. These skills have helped me to expand my vision for the district, communicate clearly and effectively, be responsible and accountable, support develop and nurture staff, and work with colleagues, students, parents and community members to set high expectations for student achievement.

 Finally, a true leader is not afraid to take risks or make mistakes.  I want to continue to learn and understand what it means and what it takes to be leader.  I welcome the opportunity to reinforce my strengths as a leader and continue improving the skills needed to become an effective leader.