Twelve Expectations
These Twelve Expectations were written more than three decades ago to serve as a compass to give those whom I have served direction. All leaders should establish their own list of clear expectations and be willing to model them so others might follow.
Dr. James M. Halik, Copyright 1987
Positive Attitude
Regardless of the many frustrations we face daily, it is imperative that we maintain a positive attitude when dealing with our publics. You may have read this quote from Charles Swindoll; "I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you ... we are in charge of our attitudes."
Initiative
One of the keys to our schools success has been the recruitment of people who are highly self-directed. Traditional top-down management is not the norm. There is simply too much work to do to wait for someone to give the order. We must always be receptive to new ideas and new ways of doing things.
Professionalism
While we may have used the phrase, "never judge a book by its cover," we all are guilty of doing just that. It is perfectly natural. A study revealed that people begin making judgments about an organization within six seconds. "Who are the first people seen when entering our schools?" We reflect, through our appearance, actions, and communication, the culture and climate of our schools.
Enthusiasm
Employees should be expected to greet people (especially the children), and answer the telephone with enthusiasm every minute of every day. Zig Ziglar is quoted saying; "If you do not feel enthusiastic pretend. If you pretend long enough and hard enough, you will feel it. Enthusiasm is contagious!" Believe me, your students and colleagues will see your enthusiasm or the lack there of.
Perfection
We need to constantly strive to present the best possible image in everything we do! Tom Peters said; "you cannot allow typos in internal memos and then turn around and demand perfection in client reports (in our case, student work). There is no such thing as being perfectly conscientious part-time."
Forgiving
As a member of a "team" you will be asked to contribute much more than in the past. Quite simply, there is more work to be done by all of us. Our ability to work as a cohesive unit is extremely critical. Sometimes that means being a little more understanding and forgiving of others. You have permission to be mad at me today but tomorrow is a fresh new start.
Organized
The ability to thrive in the midst of ambiguity and chaos is to come to grips with it, to succeed in spite of it. Webster defines organize as: "To manage or arrange systematically for united or harmonious action." Each of us plays a unique role in this school (corporation). However, that role is constantly changing, responding to the short-term as well as the long-term needs. Shuffling multiple assignments is not unusual, in fact, today it is the norm.
Character
Character is an attribute often overlooked when evaluating and/or hiring employees. Certain characteristics such as personal habits, integrity, love, service, self-discipline, and fortitude must be recognized. Character makes a statement about you, protect it!
Visible
Part of working in public education is being visible. Attending school and community activities is important (though not a necessity). A willingness to participate whenever possible, take risk, and being vulnerable shows students and colleagues that you are interested and that you want all students to achieve and succeed. You must find a perfect balance between your work and your personal life.
Kids First
You say, "Wait just a minute! Why all the emphasis on kids?" We agree that if we are not constantly focused on kids, we lose sight of our ultimate mission, "KIDS ARE SPECIAL PEOPLE!" All decisions shall be made with this one powerful theme in mind. We must do what is in the best interest of our students. If it were not for the kids we would not have a job nor would we have this place we call school. The only reason we are all here is because of the students.
Strong Values
Looking for what is valued is a characteristic of effective schools. When I interview candidates for a job I look for outgoing people who are likely to be genuinely friendly toward students, parents, and colleagues. Stew Leonard, a grocer, considers retailing experience and skills at a cash register secondary. He is quoted saying; "We can teach cash register. We cannot teach nice." I believe in being surrounded by a strong team of colleagues that share the same values. We are here primarily to serve the needs of students and parents. That means going the extra mile whether it be working on Saturday, staying until 7:00 p.m., or making an extra telephone call.
Love Your Job
My father always told me that, no matter how much money you make, if you do not love getting up and going to work everyday, then it is just a job.. As usual, my dad was right! I have always enjoyed what I do for a living. In fact, I have chosen the perfect career for me. "I love my job!" While all of us find the constant bureaucratic melee often frustrating, we should take time to enjoy the challenge and rewards of serving the students, parents, and community. We must always ask, as good as were are what will it take to be even better? Going to work should not just be a job, it should be something you are passionate about and truly enjoy.
