Well Done – a word from Executive Director, Kevin Casey

Well Done!

I know that many of our members are still settling in for the new school year. There are probably still a few scheduling hiccups and hiring challenges (do those ever end?) out there that have to be resolved. However, I suspect that for most, buildings and programs will soon settle into an effective rhythm created by experienced and highly competent administrators. For better or worse, it is also fair to expect there will be occasional disruptions to that rhythm.

Some disruptions are the result of the challenges that we are aware of, but struggle to control. Student and staff mental health issues and chronic absenteeism come to mind as a couple of examples. Either can be a form of self-sabotage, although not necessarily an intentional one, that may prevent one from reaching his or her potential. Everyone engaged in education is aware of these particular issues (and I know there are many others), but they defy easy resolution and resist resolution at all, easy or not. The building and program leaders are left with trying to manage the issues to minimize their adverse impacts.

The normal ongoing evolutionary nature of statutory and regulatory change is also a source of disruption to routine. It is by design, and not necessarily bad, but it too must be managed. There is often a longer on-ramp that allows for consideration, contribution, and pushback where appropriate. When one considers the multiple iterations of the APPR law and regulations over the years you realize that you operate in a constant state of flux. I expect the movement to electric buses will also be an evolution characterized by multiple due date modifications, cost changes, and unintended consequences. The

analysis of high school graduation measures, seemingly being conducted in a thoughtful and measured manner, also strikes me as something that may require long-term tinkering. We probably could accurately say the same thing about literacy instruction and cell phone utilization in schools.

I’m sure there are other topics that others would include on the list of items that might change your culture, impact your rhythm, or disrupt your status quo. None of that automatically renders any such change a bad thing, but does test the administrative skills of a variety of educators. Watching administrators manage the constant flux is impressive. I think your jobs are far more complex and difficult than many people realize.

While not every change has a positive impact, most if not all, are at least intended to be in the best interest of students. I may be a bit biased, but I tip my hat to what I see as your relentless effort to improve the educational experience of all students.

-Kevin Casey