Week 2

Wow. I have to say that after reading all of the 9 passions, I have a newly found respect for campus leaders. Standing on the outside, looking in it seems so....simple. Then again, our school principal has that gift. From staff development to culture to social justice...it's amazing how a leader HAS to juggle all of that, make it work, find time to reflect, and do it all over again the next day. I am nervous about beginning my action research, yet at the same time EXCITED. I know it's something that will definitely improve our school, and I can't wait to get started!

How can educational leaders use blogs?

Blogs can be extremely useful for educational leaders. Nowadays, a large majority of students/parents have access to the internet and are familiar with blogs. Therefore, what better way to keep parents constantly updated with school functions, upcoming events, volunteer work, and/or classroom events? Blogs are the new newsletter! Printing 500+ newsletters is a thing of the past! Blogs provide educational leaders with endless possibilities.

Furthermore, blogs allow parents to be in constant communication with teachers and principals resulting in more parental involvement. I've come to realize that parents LIKE to know what their child is doing at all times. They like to be in the know. They want to be kept updated...and not have to wait until Little Susie brings home the monthly newsletter. Parental involvement is crucial on any campus, and blogs provide us with a perfect way of achieving it!

Action Research

When I first heard the term "Action Research", I honestly was quite a bit intimidated. I've never considered myself a researcher. For the past 8 years I've been a teacher. That's it. Never, in a million years did I think that my opinion would be or could be valued. Therefore, becoming familiar with Action Research and its significance is entralling. So much, that I can't wait for the beginning of the school year! As I became more familiar with its significance, I realized that Action Research is exactly what my campus principal does. He's constantly involved not only with the teachers, but also with the students. Being called into his office to discuss campus concerns, data, solutions to said concerns, and methods of improving our campus is something that takes place on a regular basis. This coming year I'm also a part of our campus PLC team. Therefore, all of this newfound information is being obtained at just the right time. Knowing that my voice DOES matter, is just extra motivation to reflect even more so on my teaching methods, become even more critical of my lessons, and strive to be a part of a change that will continue improving our campus!