I did some soul searching before applying to the program- a couple years I think, having first heard about the program coming back from NECC, 2008. I don't see myself as a school administrator so for a while I really thought it would be pointless for me to complete the program. As my sister put it, so you're going for your certification to be a principal but you don't want to be a principal? - don't you love how family grounds you?
However, I finally decided that, much like life, this program will be more about the journey than the final destination. I expect the program to be a rigorous examination and exploration of what makes successful educational leadership and how technology can be utilized towards that end.
I have come to realize that real leadership at every level in education is what is needed to make students successful lifelong learners and to move a school or district towards that goal. I hope gaining a clear understanding of leadership and hopefully gaining the skills to be a successful education leader will help me in whatever my next position will be. I also expect the program to help me further expand my impact on students and teachers in my current role.
Organization is going to be key to my success in this program. I'm glad the program is starting in the summer. This will give me the time needed to create a schedule I can work within without other demands on my time. It also allows me the time to organize other parts of my life, including my teaching for the upcoming year so I will be better able to focus on the program fully throughout the year.
There are some basic strategies that I will follow: devoting a set amount of time daily to the program, scheduling time to complete the activities once they are posted, and trying to find balance in the rest of my life so that stress does not become a factor. I have a tendency to procrastinate or work in a "just in time" mode. I definitely need to shift my thinking in this regard.
I have some concerns that I will have a clear understanding of the expectations of each assignment. I think being able to communicate with team mates, cohorts and the instructors will be most important for me. I need to feel comfortable enough with these folks to reach out with a question when I have one. More explanation in an assignment is always better for me and examples work really well. I have not completed course work in over 10 years, and I'm still a little concerned about working at a JHU standard. In short, the whole program puts me a little bit out of my comfort zone, but I am beginning to believe that that is the only place where we can grow.
Karen-
ReplyDeleteYou are off to a great start! It sounds like it was a big decision and first step for you to even enroll in this program. I think you made a wise decision. This is an excellent program that will help prepare you for any leadership opportunity that you may choose. Do not feel as though it limits you to just school based administration. Look at me. I have my job, thanks to this program!
You have a great network of people here in the course; which I think you have seen already in two short weeks. You’ll learn even more about your classmates when you meet them in Denver which I am sure will increase your comfort level. Be sure to reach out to your classmates, instructor or folks at JHU if you need assistance. Everyone is there to ensure your success. You can definitely do this!
Best of luck to you!