The Reference - Part 3

As previously reported, it’s that time of year again.  The time when districts look at what their campuses are doing and then look at LYS campuses and decide that they need to make a run at those campus and district leaders.  In the course of the recruitment dance, the interested district always wants a to hear from a reference or two.  Do you want to know why the LYS Leader is different?  Here is an excerpt from a reference that I just completed.

How does this individual get along with others?

(MASKED NAME) has the highest profile position in his district. In the current funding crisis, few districts in the state, has been hit as hard as his.  It is a testament to the esteem in which his community, staff and superiors hold him that he is able to lead in this environment.  Few in his district are happy right now, but on his campus they are still working with a purpose.

Describe his planning and organization skills.

(MASKED NAME) ability to plan and organize has few peers.  But unlike many who pride themselves for their planning and organization skills, (MASKED NAME) is a flexible thinker.  His plans are a working draft that are adjusted when the situation warrants it.  Again, it is this skill set that has positioned his campus to remain effective as resources are cut daily.

What are his strengths?

The core of Lead Your School is the code, "Think. Work. Achieve."  (MASKED NAME) personifies this.  He understands theory as well as any young school leader. Though not common, that in itself is not unique.  What is unique is the sweat equity he puts in to see that theory is put into practice, at scale, in his classrooms.

Does he have any weakness?

Like all top-tier principals, (MASKED NAME) is relentless in the pursuit of maximizing student opportunity and performance.  In an environment focused on adult comfort and convenience, (MASKED NAME) would have little patience.

What sets him apart from other candidates?

(MASKED NAME) is thriving in a "perfect storm" education crisis. He leads a fast growth campus with real dollars and actual staff counts having been cut for three straight years.  The fact that not only does his school function, but that it is also improving the quality of delivered instruction is nothing short of miraculous.

Think. Work. Achieve.

Your turn...

• Call Jo at (832) 477-LEAD to order your campus set of “The Fundamental 5: The Formula for Quality Instruction.” Individual copies available on Amazon.com!  http://tinyurl.com/Fundamental5
• Call Jo at (832) 477-LEAD to order your campus set of “Look at Me: A Cautionary School Leadership Tale” Individual copies available on Amazon.com!  http://tinyurl.com/lookatmebook
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