By: Marlon M. Massagan, School Head/ Balinciagao Elementary School
Being the head of an office is not only defined by the duties and functions indicated in the job description but also by the character and personality traits of a leader. For a school head to be able to do his or her responsibilities, one must possess qualities that go beyond the extra mile, involving not only the school but also the community in the development, welfare, and learning of a child. This ability to involve people of diverse backgrounds( education, economic status, age, gender, etc.) is just one of the qualities of leadership in the school. A school leader then must be able to communicate well the needs of the learners and the school to the stakeholders and collaborate with them in building a strong foundation for children to have a better quality of life.
But prior to that, a school leader must first be vision-oriented, able to see the end goal and the processes and alternatives that are coupled with it. He must be resilient and persistent in achieving that goal with the help, of course, of the teachers, parents, and other stakeholders. He must be willing to take risks and at the same time have in mind strategies and contingency plans when expected results fail to materialize.
Additionally, he must have empathy and be able to understand the strengths, weaknesses, and limits of his subordinates, and the people he collaborates with and at the same time able to provide support and recognition to their efforts. He must have the power of persuasion to encourage, empower, and inspire everyone in the fulfillment of a goal by building confidence in their performances and appropriately communicating and providing actual feedback.
Furthermore, a school leader puts complete trust in his or her followers regarding their assigned responsibilities but provides guidance whenever necessary in order to keep the goals on the right track. He sees to it that the responsibilities given to them are within their capabilities and management of performances. When their limits are measured, a school leader is quick to act by ensuring training and coaching to continuously improve and equip the teachers of their profession, assigned tasks, and other responsibilities.
Most importantly, to serve as a role model to everyone, adhering to the ethical principles of a professional teacher, and of one coming from a tribal community with its cultural core values of Paniyaw, Ngilin, and Bain.
LISTEN TO STATION 1 RADIO: CLICK ME
Comments