When it comes to being a school administrator, there are several skills needed to promote success and facilitate quality student learning. As a leader, one is required to tackle all sorts of problems with the goal of creating the best learning environment for the entire school community. One takes on many roles when in the field of administration. Discussed below are 5 abilities that are essential for being a successful administrator.
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Great Communicator
People skills are imperative to the success of a school administrator. They must be able to communicate their beliefs with regards to education, and create a safe environment for teachers and students to express themselves. Potential administrators need to easily understand the needs and motivations of those they organize to, in turn, be able to accurately judge possible reactions and outcomes based on their own actions.
Having such sensitivity allows one to willingly act in a way that includes the perceptions and needs of others. An article from Harvard Business Review further discusses how good communication should become natural to administrators as it works to inspire trust and empower teachers and students.
Strong Leader
The biggest key to success in any school, is great leadership. Not only does it promote long-term achievement, but it also sets into place stability as other administrators come and go. Successful school administrators should be experts at effectively working to support every individual in a school.
Leading by example and showing professionalism, selflessness, and exceptional listening abilities are a blend of qualities curtail to being a respected leader. One must be able to problem solve and provide efficient solutions tailored to individual situations. In turn, it’s also important for administrators to understand that situations can change and be readily able to adapt.
A Clear Vision for Success
An administrator must have a clear vision for success that guides how they operate on a day-to-day basis. They set themselves to meet high expectations and are very ambitious. Having knowledge of faculty strengths and weaknesses leads to a better understanding of what resources they need. When the accurate resources are provided, teachers feel prepared and are able to foster quality education. Administrators know that showing appreciation to teachers and acknowledging their good performance strengthens the school community and overall success.
Fostering School Improvement
Administrators must be rigorous in terms of data analysis and self evaluation to offer clear strategies for school improvement. They focus on professional development of all staff to improve teaching and ensure learning is effective. Being experts at assessment, administrators are able to track the progress of all pupils and implement intervention based upon detailed knowledge of individuals.
School administrators work to ensure a highly inclusive school environment, and offer rich learning opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. They also strive to cultivate partnerships with parents, businesses, and the overall community to support the progress of student learning.
Being Accessible
Administrators should be vibrant, positive, and have a strong presence in their school. Modeling good behavior and taking the time to get to know faculty and students leaves in an incredible impact. One should be passionate about education and willing to discuss the concerns of the ever changing school atmosphere.Being approachable is vital for cultivating good communication.
Of course, there are many other lists out there that focus on what characteristics are important for being an administrator. Many will echo these points, while others emphasize and focus on others. The barriers to leadership must be removed by reinventing the relationships of the entire school community. While the role a school administrator is always changing, these skills are true fundamental staples that will always lead to success.
