Mrs. Cromer: Leading & Learning

As a first year principal, I am always hungry to learn about new resources and strategies.  So when I heard that my favorite educational leader was publishing a new book, of course I pre-ordered a copy. www.tower.com The Secret Solution: How One Principal Discovered the Path to Success is a fictional tale that follows "Roger Rookie" through his first year as principal.  Along the way he encounters the typical school characters and undergoes several leadership transformations. The Secret Solution is an easy read and administrators are sure to identify with Rookie as he faces familiar issues with faculty, staff, and parents.  Although the struggles were simplified, the message was clear; the path to success is a mix of climate and accountability.  Oh, and the illustrations were a nice bonus. I would recommend this book to any current or aspiring administrator.  As a collector of Todd Whitaker books, it was nice to see his concepts put into practice, ev...

There is nothing better than a great professional development session.  One that really ignites your passion and sets your wheels spinning about how it will impact students. There is also nothing worse than bad professional development.  Everyone knows what I'm talking about and unfortunately everyone has experienced their fair share of bad PD. thecornerstoneforteachers.com As a new principal, I want to take advantage of every moment that my staff is gathered together.  The days are so busy and our time together is a precious commodity.  Below are a few ways that I try to keep staff development relevant and inspiring for my teachers. Flipped Faculty Meetings I had some success with flipping meetings in my previous position and knew that I would utilize this strategy at my new school.  At least one week before our scheduled monthly meetings, I send out all of the pertinent announcements in a presentation video.  (I've used Screenr and Screencast...