One of the first courses that I began working on in my Masters of Counseling program was actually a field-led leadership program designed for those considering school leadership in their educational futures. Knowing that I had an interest in administration, it was most definitely a course that I looked forward to taking.
The course syllabus was broken up into ten modules which were delivered by current school leaders in the Brandon School Division, allowing me to gain a unique understanding of each of their leadership qualities and values. The modules covered a range of topics which aligned with the Manitoba Certificate in School Leadership Domains. Glancing over the topics themselves helped me understand just how many hats that a school administrator needed to wear in a year, similar to those of a teacher but at a different level. Our leadership visions, mantras, and values were considered throughout all classes and I appreciated the opportunity that I was given to be among conversations with current leaders in my division, allowing me the unique opportunity to “preview” who I may work well with in the future.
While I thoroughly enjoyed all of the modules, the ones that I remember the most were Legal Responsibilities with Dr. Tom Skinner and Building a Culture of Collaborative Student Focused Teams with Barbara Miller. Tom’s lessons in ethical responsibilities had stuck with me ever since the first class I took with him in my Bachelor od Education degree. To this day, I’m not sure how I ever had the courage to step foot into a school as a teacher after the fear that he put in us in those classes! Tom used real examples to teach us the legal ramifications should we forget the importance of our positions as teachers and leaders in the community, or even get lazy and forget to act the part in front of the wrong person.
Barb talked about the importance of connection and team building as she sat in the unique position of principal of BSD’s newest school that had not yet opened it’s doors. Barb spoke of the considerations that needed to be taken as a school culture was built from the ground up and opened my eyes to just how many and how important those considerations were. Everything from team-building between staff, choosing a mascot and school logo, and considering how to involve the parent community was covered. Although the chances that I’ll be in the same position as her are likely pretty slim, these are still all lessons that I could take with me to a “new-to-me” school, just in a different capacity.
As a school counsellor, these lessons help me contribute in a leadership role, particularly when it comes to the importance of building a positive school climate that fosters the success of both students and staff.
Favorite Resources:
Within this assignment you’ll find my core beliefs and values that I carry with me throughout every aspect of my life. With regards to future leadership opportunities, I look forward to using this assignment to remind me of the visions I created after listening to many inspirational leaders in my Field-Led Leadership course.
Micki Banks
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