A Love For People

Love is defined as a quality or feeling of strong affection for and dedication to another. Another definition states a warm attachment, enthusiasm, or devotion. Love often involves empathy, support, and a desire for the wellbeing of others. A love for people is a quality needed for leaders.

Being an administrator is not an easy task. There are so many competing interests that can completely overwhelm you and block the work that needs to happen. During the difficult days, what is the driving force behind what you do?

How you show up for people matters. Listening to that parent complain about their students grades or some other issue, conversations with students about their decision making, providing feedback to a teacher on something that you observed in a classroom, and speaking with a custodian about a building issue. The things that you do daily as a school leader sets the tone for those that you serve in the building.

Showing people that you are concerned about their wellbeing is a characteristic of a good leader. The level of care that you give to staff and students dictates the measure of trust that they have in you. How do people respond to you when they see you around campus? Are they receptive to you or does their body language suggest that they don’t want to be around you?

Being genuine in all that you do draws people to you. You can only pretend for so long before your authentic self is revealed. Kindness, empathy, vulnerability, and dependability from a school leader can set teachers and students on a path for success.

Having respect for everyone within your school building is an important part of your leadership. Every person that walks into your school has value that is added into the culture of your campus. You should do your best to keep this at the forefront of your mind during daily interactions.

Having a love for people does not mean that you don’t hold them accountable. When you care about people, you want them to be successful. We have to hold those that we lead accountable for their actions. This involves feedback, collaboration, delegation, and encouragement.

Good leadership involves a high level of care. Our students and staff need to know that we are in their corner. Leaders have to show a level of respect and commitment to those that they serve. How are you showing your love for your school community?