This is a message to the members of the Minnesota Association of School Administrators (MASA) from Charlie Kyte, Executive Director.
The audio podcast below is 5 minutes long. Just click the audio bar once or twice.
MEETING WITH OTHER STATE LEADERS TO BETTER UNDERSTAND THE NATIONAL ECONOMY AND THE CHANGE IN ADMINISTRATIONS:
I am in Santa Fe, New Mexico meeting with the other state association executives from across the nation. We are being briefed on the possible changes undeway as the Obama administration takes over the federal government. We are also learning more about the seriousness of the global economic problem. By the way there is some snow on the ground here so we aren't playing much at all. The meeting is very serious in content and tone.
COMMUNICATE NOW:
This is the time to be communicating with all your stakeholder groups....Staff, Principals, Board, Community & Parent Leaders, Student Leaders and the Media.
Work to have a coordinated set of messages coming from school leaders. Communicate your Districts situation, but don't spread panic. Also be sympathetic as many families and school employees are nervous about what the future may hold.
In your communication also indicate that you and other school officials are monitoring the situation, that you are engaging in contingency planning, and your efforts to be an advocate for public education. Pledge to keep the lines of communication open.
COMMUNICATION TIP:
Think in terms of feeding your stakeholders. As you create your message, first serve up a 'bite', then a 'snack' and finally the meal. Thus give a quick opening comment, then several bullet points on what you are doing and finally a rest of the message.
In the end, the whole message needs to be read in 3 minutes or less.
STAY AS POSITIVE AS POSSIBLE:
As a leader, part of your job is to sell 'hope'. Thus as you communicate both in person and by written communications, let people know that we will all get through this and the importance of working together and supporting each other.
Keep participating in your regional meetings and stay active in MASA. It is in these types of times that we all need personal and professional support.
Comments