The Seeds of Change

The Seeds of Change

by Jim Elliott Just before the turn of the century (the 21st century) a number of leadership-gurus started turning heads by talking about the organic nature of organizations, and how traditional theories of organizational change were proving to be wrong. One of these...
Things To Do When Going To A New District [Superintendents]

Things To Do When Going To A New District [Superintendents]

by Bob Thompson Sample Entry Plan Keep in mind it is their school, their kids, and their money. Invite each board member (and his/her spouse) over to your house for a meal with your family.  This gives you a chance to know them (and them you) as people and not just...
Traditional (But Not Recommended) Superintendent Rating Scale

Traditional (But Not Recommended) Superintendent Rating Scale

by Bob Thompson Measures Input RATING EXPLANATION 5 Clearly outstanding: Performance is superior to normal expectations. 4 Exceeds expectations: Performance is consistently above expectations. 3 Meets expectations: Performance is consistently meets expectations. 2...
Try Something Different

Try Something Different

by Price Pritchett, Chicken Soup for the Soul I’m sitting in a quiet room at the Milcroft Inn, a peaceful little place hidden back among the pine trees about an hour out of Toronto.  It’s just past noon, late July, and I’m listening to the desperate...
What is the Dollar Value of Your Good Reputation?

What is the Dollar Value of Your Good Reputation?

by Bob Thompson Not long ago a superintendent in a large city lost her job – including her $250,000 a year salary, her administrator certification, and her freedom (because she went to jail) – by taking $16,000 of the district’s money.  In short, she sold her...