Sunday, November 27, 2011

Capstone Paper Reflection

As I wrote the capstone paper, I was reminded of the importance of identifying the current reality.  Before we can move forward, we must identify where we are.  When moving forward, the destination (vision or goal) should be clearly communicated to all stakeholders.  Once the current reality is identified and the vision is communicated, then a plan can be created to make the vision a reality.  Staff, students, parents, and community members should all have a voice in the vision as well as in the plan.  The support of all stakeholders will be needed to carry out the plan.  As barriers are encountered, an effective PLC can address and conquer them. 
Each and every person at a school site is important!  We must work together as a team with the guidance of the school leader.  Leadership can have a positive effect on a school.  It's a process.  A positive leader will stay close to the community and have good systems in place. 
We can not make excuses for children not performing at proficient or advanced.  There are no acceptable excuses why not every child can learn.  We must hold tightly that every child can learn and ensure there success! 

Saturday, November 12, 2011

Budget/Funding Activity

Working on the site categorical funding budget is a part of my every day duties as GIS.  I have become familiar with the allocations of funding and working within the budget.  I am thankful to the department of Special Projects and to the site office manager for their patience and guidance as I learn.
An important thing I have learned is to use all "most restrictive" funds first.  That way, you are left with the "least restrictive" funds to meet the needs of all students.  As an administrative team, we work to identify the needs of our site.  We work with our staff, students, and parents to identify the needs.  Next, a proposed budget of how the site would like to use the funds is presented to the School Site Council for review and approval.
I work with an exceptional staff and members of the site council who work closely to ensure that funds are used to best meet the needs of all students.

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Face2Face Reflection

You are who you hire.  I strongly agree with that statement.  I enjoyed listening to the HR managers from Clovis, Sanger, and Visalia Unified School Districts.  Although each district is very different, I found many similarities in what they look for in a new hire and as well as in many "operational" areas.
I believe that their is a right fit for each new administrator.  A right fit in a district, as well as at a school site.  It is important to be patient and trust the interview panel, the site administration, and the district administration.  They know the site well and can best identify a good fit.  I interviewed for three GIS positions before getting the one I currently have.  I have also spoken with numerous administrators who said they interviewed several times before getting a position in administration.  It can be a challenge to be patient, but I feel it will pay off in the long run.
When the CADA members guided us through a few activities, I gained a new perspective on how to listen with respect.  I also learned more about how the school climate is developed by the activities on campus.  Even though it was a Friday night after a long week, I could have sat and listened and learned for hours!
Dr. Terry Bradley's presentation on school finance was incredible!  I learned so much that can help me in my job right now.  From the history of different propositions and court rulings, to the components of a budget, I have a lot to do on Monday in the office.  Dr. Bradley was able to clarify many areas of school finance that I had questions on.  For example, revenue limit and unrestricted revenue.  I feel much more confident as we prepare to pass a bond in Clovis.  Another weekend of valuable information - thank you Dr. Buster, Dr. Wise, and Dr. Darrow!