The buses are running, the cafeteria is serving food, kids are getting lost in the hallways, lockers are jamming but it is all good as things seemingly return to normal. As I watch the trends in Michigan's educator pipeline, it is striking to see the number of new leaders at every level – ISD Superintendents, District Superintendents, Central office and Building level administration. In many cases educators are spending fewer than three years per level as they move up the ranks. Change can definitely be good as it brings fresh thoughts and positive energy, but there is also something to be said for veteran leadership that has seen the test of time. The administrator pipeline in Michigan is largely in need of mentoring at every level. 

With a dozen years, four in Pinconning and eight at Bay City Central, as assistant principal, and an additional 10 as a principal in between, Pinconning Superintendent Andy Kowalczyk has gained experience from which new APs can learn that they can get through it all, and they don't have to do it alone.

"Sometimes it's shocking the amount of time it takes to be an assistant principal," he said. "During the day, you've got your time, but the events after school and all the activities, NHS awards, whatever it may be – it's just, there's a lot of time – and I think sometimes that's a shock ... that's kind of something that you have to be prepared for."

Podcast with Danelle Scott (14 minutes)

In this episode, Nina interviews Caledonia High School Assistant Principal and new AP West representative, Danelle Scott. Listen as we get to know Danelle better and hear about the great things happening at Caledonia High School. Danelle references MASSP's Path to Leadership program. Tune in one of three ways below.

Webcast with Sydney Bailey IV (34 minutes)

Are you building a social media administrator presence? If no, why not? Social Media is a great way to connect to your school constituents and build your "brand." In this video interview, Nina talks with Mr. Sidney Bailey IV, Assistant Principal of Portage West Middle School, who has become a social media "influencer" in the world of education. Mr. Bailey describes how he got started on social media and why he feels it is such an important tool in today's society.

Over the five years that I was the Associate Principal at Heritage Junior High School, in Sterling Heights, the most important commodity was time. Time to meet with staff, time to deal with disciplinary issues, time to set into the important work of building and managing cultures of learning within the building, time to do observations and feedback, and so much more. Creating the list can be an overwhelming act! 

Effective leadership requires effective time management. It creates the space you need to do the essential work, the flexibility to manage the challenges and opportunities that arrive during the day, and the ability to meaningfully prioritize out the noise! We need to prioritize what is important, eliminate things that are not, and realize that our calendars will determine what we do or do not value. 

 Article Brought to You By VitalSigns Wall of Fame

We know the legacy of your school's past, present, and future matters. With the Wall of Fame, we make it easier than ever to build a deeper sense of pride in your hallways by recognizing the incredible accomplishments of your whole community. Our solution easily integrates with and complements your existing tributes, trophy cases, plaques walls, and more. Or it can stand alone as its own centerpiece to your school's recognition. With no space limitations, you no longer must choose which accomplishments to showcase.