Communication is key
An administrator sets the tone for effective communication within a school. Starting with an open and available attitude so others feel comfortable coming to you with any issues or questions is paramount to the success of an administrator. Having an ‘open door’ policy where staff, parents and students know that you are available and interested in what they have to say is very helpful. Even when busy with a task, stating that you are interested in hearing their thoughts is the first step to effective communication. Additionally, following up at another time shows that you are interested in learning about additional thoughts and ideas.
To have effective communication within a school community, I would be interested in instituting a weekly newsletter to keep everyone updated on the goings on of the school. It might be prudent to have different staff members take on the task on a rotating basis so that the newsletter is written in various voices. Teachers can use the newsletter as an opportunity to share what is going on in their classrooms. Parish information could also be included. Having the information shared schoolwide keeps everyone informed and on the same page. An idea to help with communication within the school is for staff to submit questions that may be discussed at faculty meetings. This can be done randomly and anonymously. Not only would it help many feel comfortable with speaking up on an issue, it would also give the administrator time to reflect, gain facts, and gather thoughts to discuss without being put on the spot. Often it is easier to share a question in writing, rather than ask in person.
An open door policy is one in which the community knows they are always welcome to speak with the administrator. It is possible to set aside time during the day when an administrator can be focused and give the person the attention they need. There could be times set aside for parents, teachers, and students. Also, a mailbox can be set aside for questions and comments to be addressed.
An administrator sets the tone for effective communication within a school. Starting with an open and available attitude so others feel comfortable coming to you with any issues or questions is paramount to the success of an administrator. Having an ‘open door’ policy where staff, parents and students know that you are available and interested in what they have to say is very helpful. Even when busy with a task, stating that you are interested in hearing their thoughts is the first step to effective communication. Additionally, following up at another time shows that you are interested in learning about additional thoughts and ideas.
To have effective communication within a school community, I would be interested in instituting a weekly newsletter to keep everyone updated on the goings on of the school. It might be prudent to have different staff members take on the task on a rotating basis so that the newsletter is written in various voices. Teachers can use the newsletter as an opportunity to share what is going on in their classrooms. Parish information could also be included. Having the information shared schoolwide keeps everyone informed and on the same page. An idea to help with communication within the school is for staff to submit questions that may be discussed at faculty meetings. This can be done randomly and anonymously. Not only would it help many feel comfortable with speaking up on an issue, it would also give the administrator time to reflect, gain facts, and gather thoughts to discuss without being put on the spot. Often it is easier to share a question in writing, rather than ask in person.
An open door policy is one in which the community knows they are always welcome to speak with the administrator. It is possible to set aside time during the day when an administrator can be focused and give the person the attention they need. There could be times set aside for parents, teachers, and students. Also, a mailbox can be set aside for questions and comments to be addressed.