This message contains information for the new and newer members of the Minnesota Association of School Administrators (MASA) and is written by Charlie Kyte, MASA Executive Director.
This audio podcast is 5 1/2 minutes long.
SUPPORT EACH OTHERS WITH LEVY REFERENDUMS
If you have a referendum in your district be sure to stay on positive messages over this next two weeks. Also attend to the mechanics of running your election such as polling officials, ballots and election sites. If you don't have an election be ready to help other colleagues as the elections occur. Remember that if an election fails there is considerable blame to go around and much often falls on the Superintendent. This is a time when some positive support from colleagues is appreciated.
PAY ATTENTION TO STAFF AND LONG RANGE PLANNING
If you have a position that is a full time Superintendency, recognize that this is a time of year to make a special effort to be out and around your buildings meeting with staff and students. If you share a Superintendent/ Principal position remember to take the time to also concentrqate on the longer term planning that is required of the superintendent portion of your position.
PROFESSIONAL TRAINING FOR NEWER MEMBERS
The next Great Start Workshop is scheduled for November 9th. The 2nd Year Cohort group is scheduled to meet on November 13th.
NOVEMBER 'TO DO' LIST
It is time to begin the budget planning cycle. Your Board will be expecting Budget parameters soon and you should also be firming up the Budget/ Staffing cycle dates that you and your Board will follow over the next 6 months.
NEGOTIATIONS
It is easy to 'get down' on teachers during the negotiations cycle. However it is better to work with an organized workforce than one that is totally unfocused. Work to keep as positive a working relationship with the teacher negotiators as possible (not always easy to do) as the negotiations will eventually end and you will all need to work together for a common purpose. Stay positive.
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