Is This My Job? From Tube Tops to Tooth Fairies, Navigating the New Administrator Journey

What was the speaker’s main message?

Our job is a journey. It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon, but all the things that happen every day and every minute can make us ask, “Is this really my job?” Through connections, reminders of our impact, and encouragement to strengthen yourself for the journey, Travis Moss and Brittany Lundell offered three tips for navigating the administrative journey:

1. Find your North Star;
2. Charge your batteries every day; and
3. Find a copilot. 

What were the speaker’s best quotes?

“Show me a teacher who is clear on their purpose, and I’ll show you a teacher with passion. Can you tell me a story that states your life’s purpose in 20 seconds or less? Being able to do so will affect the way you behave and the way others behave towards you.”

“You can’t change the world alone. You need some help to get from your starting point to your destination. It takes friends, colleagues, the good will of strangers and a strong coxswain to guide you. If you want to change the world you need to find some help with that.” 

What were the top ideas from the session?

Navigating the administrative journey includes principles. 

1. Define and remind yourself of your North Star (purpose) to keep you moving in the right direction. Moss shared his philosophy of “walking them home” by being there for each person, “Every Interaction. Everyday. 
2. Charge your batteries daily so that you can be at your best when it matters the most. Administrators wear many hats, so how do we find time to recharge? “Many of us feel stressed and get overwhelmed not because we’re taking on too much, but because we’re taking on too little of what really strengthens us.” From limiting email and listening to music to greeting kids at the door and red carpet celebrations, staff must find ways to bring joy and fun to the journey. 
3. Find copilots that you can rely on to help you on your journey, you cannot do this alone. As administrators, we often think it is a weakness to ask for help. None of us are immune from life’s tragic moments…it takes a team of good people to get you to your destination in life. You cannot paddle the boat alone. Find someone to share your life with. Make as many friends as possible, and never forget that your successes depend on others. 

What is one strategy you will implement immediately?

One strategy that the presenters suggested for building culture was the postcard home. Many of us do this/have done this, but Moss and Lundell reminded me of the importance and impact. I want to design a card unique for our staff to use and ensure each student gets a note home by providing job-embedded time for staff to complete this task. 

What is one strategy that will help you with instructional leadership?

Moss and Lindell challenged the attendees to identify their life’s purpose in 20 seconds or less. This is a difficult task and requires some thought, but doing so will help staff orient to their North Star in every interaction and decision. Helping staff identify and articulate their purpose will improve their efficacy and impact. 

What are resources you will check out?

• Ideas, Ideas, Ideas by Steven Bollar–From a Joke of the Day to make students groan and relax, to having a Thank You Day when staff and students show their appreciation for each other, this book will jump start any school’s efforts and inspire others to find out more.  You can’t take his entertaining personality home with you, but you can take these ideas and enjoy the good humor and belief in positivity that shines through in his writing.
• Teachers These Days by Jody Carrington
• The Terry Fox Foundation and The Terry Fox Story

Notes by Todd L. Brist, principal of Watertown Middle School in Watertown, South Dakota.