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When (some) administrators come strolling into our classrooms for their annual observations, students often inquisitively ask,” Who is that?” because they have never seen this person before in their ever-loving educational lives.
“How can this be?” you ask.
Well, it’s because they hide in their office like a groundhog waiting for February 2nd. They peek their heads out occasionally but only leave the comfort of their holes when a major event occurs or food is in the lounge.
This is so detrimental to the entire school community, and administrator visibility should be the first thing taught in Leadership 101.
Principal Lamb to the rescue!!
In this viral Tik Tok, Principal Lamb has rolled upon an idea that could change the entire face of what an administrator looks like, and this face is recognized by all.
We have heard of Teacher on a Cart well, here is……. The Manager on the Move or the “admin on a rolling cart”. He has substituted the stagnant, unapproachable office for an accessible desk on wheels where he rolls into the lives of his students and faculty on the daily: solving problems, giving bathroom breaks, and summoning tech support. How great is that? Who wouldn’t want to work for this guy?
I think we would all agree that Principal Lamb is on to something here, something that could prevent teachers from wanting to leave education altogether. His idea is quite simple and yet could be the one thing that could improve the morale of teachers and students.
How important is Administrator Visibility?
Teachers often feel like they are on an island when they require assistance with technology or student discipline. Finding an available administrator or tech support is like looking for a unicorn on a rainbow. They are never there when you need them, or ever really.
Having visible administrators is vital for many reasons:
Role Modeling:
When a principal is seen everywhere around the school, they become a role model for students and even for teachers. Administrators see students, learn their names, and form positive relationships. They don’t just talk to kids when they are disciplined. Teachers also get a chance to form a relationship that doesn’t just involve their yearly evaluation.
Crisis Management:
Principal Lamb can be proactive and handle problems before they arise, which helps eliminate a major crisis. Knowing the principal is close by is a deterrent for major behavior problems. But, if one does occur, they are on the front line, able to respond quickly and effectively. Principal Lamb frequently is asked to chat with students as he makes his rounds.
Climate Control:
I am not just talking about making sure the classrooms are a perfect temperature for teaching, although that is important also. The school climate and culture are crucial to the overall success and happiness of the school community. An administrator’s visibility shows everyone that their leader truly cares about building a strong foundation from the inside out.
Happy Teachers, Happy School
We have all heard, “ Happy Wife, Happy Life”; the same principle or princi-PAL applies here. When we feel seen, heard, and appreciated, our buckets are filled. We are then more capable of filling the buckets of our students and fellow colleagues. It is very much a trickle-down effect. Principal Lamb reiterates this by saying,” Teachers are the most impactful people in the building, and it’s my job to support them.” This is so great I feel like I need to write that one more time. ”Teachers are the most impactful people in the building, and it’s my job to support them.”
Teacher Shortages No More
It is safe to say that there is no shortage of teachers at Principal Lamb’s school. Commenters from all over the world are inquiring as to the possibility of a job working for him. When a school climate is supportive and works together on issues, teachers want to come to school.
This type of visibility promotes a positive school culture and contributes to a sense of community, and creates an environment for mental wellness. The words “self-care” do not ring hollow here as it is truly modeled.
Let’s start a Movement (Literally)
What if all administrators started to be this visible and approachable? Would teachers really want to leave education if they were valued, appreciated, given necessary assistance, and respected? I really don’t think so. This idea is what is needed, and it would be great to see administrators on wheels, pushing a rolling cart throughout school districts and communities. Imagine the results?
