The Evolving Role of the Principal – A Convo with Joël McLean – The Innovators Mindset S3 EP38

George Couros begins this podcast with Joël McLean by reflecting on how the role of the principal has evolved over time. Couros reflects on how it is common for the best principals to not be noticed because they are there making important decisions behind the scenes. Couros and Joël McLean talk about how leadership can … More The Evolving Role of the Principal – A Convo with Joël McLean – The Innovators Mindset S3 EP38

Harnessing Proactivity & Reactivity

Most of the time, I tend to be proactive in all aspects of my life. I think this has come with many years of experience, training and reflection. My proactive behaviour comes in large part from my ability to organize and prioritize. As a school principal, one of the most important jobs I have is … More Harnessing Proactivity & Reactivity

“I Don’t Have Time For That”

For the last couple of weeks, I’ve been thinking about what makes an educator or principal/VP think or say “I don’t have time for that” when it comes to their professional development. I remember saying those exact words (more than once) at different points during my career. And when I think back to them, I … More “I Don’t Have Time For That”

Keeping The Positive Energy Tank Full

For a school principal, the beginning of August often signals the restart of being in the “new school year” mode. It’s a time for reflection, goal setting, and planning. A time to refine the educational projects we plan to do with our students, their parents, and our staff. It’s also a time when our positive … More Keeping The Positive Energy Tank Full

How do you define success?

We all know that success can be defined in different ways. It often depends on an individual’s point of view, past experiences, how they were brought up, or even their mindset. Some believe that success is measured by assets, wealth, or trophies. Others are content with just the essentials and feel very successful in life. Some … More How do you define success?

A Leader’s Code

What does it take to be a good leader? Do we find similar characteristics, actions and attitudes among people who are recognized as good leaders? A simple Google search on leadership generates more than 800 million results: articles, photos, videos, even “secret” leadership codes. There is no shortage of information. However, I do not believe there is … More A Leader’s Code

Keeping The Bar High

Do we keep the bar high in education? Do we continuously look for ways to raise the bar? It is not enough to have high expectations for students alone. We have to dig deeper than that. We need to question and reflect much further than that. Our intention to provide quality education is good, even noble, … More Keeping The Bar High

Small Change = Big Gains

(In this post, I am simply thinking out loud. This idea has been running in my mind for quite some time now, and I’ve had many great discussions about it with superintendents, principals, teachers and parents. I would love to know what you think !) One of the biggest challenges that I faced as a … More Small Change = Big Gains

Why developing a PLN (Professional Learning Network) should be a priority for principals

Recently I have decided to “up” my contribution on Twitter. When I first started on Twitter a couple of years back, my objective was to learn as much as I could, during the few moments that I could spare. Between the many tasks a school administrator has, I would try to take a moment and … More Why developing a PLN (Professional Learning Network) should be a priority for principals