Reflections on Leadership a Personal View

In a completely rational society, the best of us would aspire to be teachers and the rest of us would aspire to be something less, because the passing of civilization along from one generation to the next ought to be the highest honor and the highest responsibility anyone can have.

Lee Iacocca

As I reflect on this quote, I am awed by the responsibility that is carried by each and every educator in this society.  We are committed to the mission to educate and this defines us as artists who are molding and sculpting a magnificent work of art.  This is no easy task in today’s society when you consider the many obstacles that are placed in our paths.

Every day, in my reflection process as a principal, I ask myself this key question.  How do I motivate, engage, and inspire a community of learners to be the best that they can be?  I am only one person so where do I begin.  I have pondered this question and I know that in order to drive the vision I must first understand myself.  Examining my own personal motivations is overwhelming, challenging, exciting, and fulfilling just to name a few adjectives that describe the complexity of my personal journey.

What I do know about myself is that I am a passionate and committed person who has been innately blessed with a high level of emotional IQ.   I care deeply about children and that to work with them every day is a joy and a personal mission.  I have been fortunate enough to know that education is the arena that I was destined to be a part of.   I embrace my leadership role and count my blessings for the opportunity to be a part of this noble profession.

A good leader first and foremost must be a compassionate individual who leads with a velvet glove.  A gifted leader must also be able to depersonalize through the myriad of situations that must be confronted throughout the day.

Therefore, I lead with the guidance of this question: “is this what is best for the children?”  It is my mantra and ultimately helps me make the best decision in every situation.   I invite all of you to join me and be a part of this wonderful journey that is Jahn School as we live our school motto OUR CHILDREN, OUR WORLD, OUR FUTURE!

Thank you for letting me be a part of your children’s world.

Sulma Grigalunas