1. In preparation for the principalship, what do you think has been the most valuable experience that you have documented in your log? Why?

-My current position I believe has been a valuable experience for myself when preparing for a principalship. In my current position I oversee testing, staff development, safety, new teachers, the exceptional education department, transportation, and student discipline. I believe that all of these positions and responsibilities have greatly prepared me for a principalship. This year I was able to experience bus accidents, interaction with a contentious advocate, medical emergencies, a community threat that placed the building on lockdown, leading assemblies, and handling issues with staff members. Being a resource teacher in the elementary level exposes me to many different experiences and opportunities. Exposure to these experiences have helped me develop a plan so that when I become a principal I have my experience to fall back on.

2. What other experiences do you wish you could have had to prepare you for the principalship?

-I wish I had an opportunity to really spend time at other levels (middle, high school, central office). I was able to spend a few hours at each of these levels but I would have appreciated spending more than just a few hours. However, my personal schedule didn’t lend itself to this availability. The time I did spend was phenomenal and I was able to see varying instructional strategies and managerial knowledge.

3. Now that you have been engaged in a variety of experiences and have shadowed at least one administrator, what are the two most important traits of an effective leader? Briefly tell why.

-Through my experiences I believe two of the most important traits of an effective leader are enthusiasm and determination. As a staff member I always felt better about the day when I walked in and my principal was there to greet me with a smile and asked how I was doing. This then rubbed off on my students. Not only is daily enthusiasm key but when the year gets tough keeping that optimism is also important. Additionally, I believe you must have determination. Having a clear plan in place and following through with that plan is vital when leading a building. While there are many traits an effective leader should encompass I believe that having enthusiasm and being determined are at the top of the list.