Entering another teacher's classroom to do an observation with an administrator is a bit like farting at a dinner party and then pointing to your spouse with a disgusted look. Teachers don't buy it though and still give me the I-can't-believe-you-would-do-this-to-me glare as they mutter between clenched teeth, "Please come in, we are just..."It's mid November and I'm still learning to settle into my new role as lead instructional teacher at my school. I'm finding out very quickly that people see me very differently since just 2 months ago. I am not an administrator but I'm in meetings with them behind closed, but windowed, doors and I implement instructional and logistical changes that were birthed during them. Telling our history department teachers that we need to design formal data tracking assessments doesn't win me any popular votes, unfortunately. Maybe I shouldn't care, but I do, which is why I think it's taking me longer to feel comfortable in my new leadership role. The new leather chair isn't broken in yet because I'm not allowing myself to completely sink into it.
I'm slowly learning that others will adjust and appreciate me for who I am and for what I have to offer as soon as I recognize my role and do it without shame or guilt. Besides, I believe in what I am doing so there's no reason for me to shrink back and be defeated even before the first period bell. Can I get an Amen? If not, don't mind me. I'm fine preaching to myself.
