THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING VISIBLE

Being visible is an essential part of being a leader. Being visible, or being out there, as an administrator, has a wide reaching effect in a school. It speaks volumes.

You as an administrator are always being judged. This is not something you want to dwell on but it is the truth. If you are going to be judged make sure that you decide how you will be perceived. If you decide to be friendly, approachable, available, then be that. Be where people can approach you. You don't really need to be spending much time in your office on your own.

You are in that position. One of the best things about being visible is that you always know what is going on. You may be the first, rather than the last. You are there when you are needed.

An administrator should always be looking for opportunities to greet people and to have a positive effect on school climate.

Tips on how to be visible

1. In the morning, or whenever students come in, be there. Be in the halls. Greet them.

2. At dismissal, go outside. Say goodbye to students. Say hello to parents. Thank the safety patrol.

3. During recesses, from time to time, join a teacher. It is lonely out there!

4. When the day starts, go into classrooms and talk to kids in their seats. Ask them what they are reading, do they enjoy their book. Notice things in the classroom. Be in the classroom.

5. Teach classes. Get to really know your student body.

6. Take an interest in everything that goes on in your building.

7. Have the caretaker show you where problems are whenever they occur. Know your school. Check out the crawlspace!