As I reflect upon the first week back to school, I am reminded of the Time Management Project that we did for our ELDP 708 course of study. This was a very busy week for me. I believe the biggest challenge for this school year will be to manage my time wisely in order to complete all the requirements of my position. This is my eighth year as a school principal; and I must say each year there are more and more expectations/requirements in which to meet. The new teacher evaluation system is going to be one of the things that is going to require a lot of my time. I served on my division’s teacher evaluation committee this past spring and completed a train the trainer three day workshop this summer for the new teacher evaluation system. Even though, I am well prepared and understand the evaluation process, it is going to consume a lot my time; especially, since I have several new teachers in my building. Therefore, I am implementing the time management suggestions in which the articles in which I read discussed. One suggestion was to close the door and do not allow others to interrupt during this time as you return phone calls, respond to emails, and complete reports. I also used this time to review and provide feedback on lesson plans and process free and reduce lunch applications.
As we begin the new year, I want to remind all educators to keep students first. Always being mindful that they are our most important resource, and that many of them only have us as positive role models. So keep first things first and keep the love of children in your heart even on your most stressful days. I hope you have a great year!
