21 October 2012

Me a leader???

I've stepped into the role of Social Studies Department Leader.

Yes, I am new to the school and new to the state, but since I am the person in the department with the most teaching experience and the only one with experience leading a department, I decided to accept the role.

I have done it before at a small school, but this is out of my comfort zone for a few reasons.

  1. I don't really know the curriculum.  At this point, I don't even know what is the unit after the next unit in each of my preps, let alone what the other grades are supposed to be teaching.  I am gaining a general idea, but still need to learn the basics and then delve into the details.
  2. I don't really know yet the way the people in the department teach or how they will take not only my suggestions but my sarcasm and dry wit when talking about what could be done.
  3. I don't yet know what the duties are of my position.  We are going to have a department leader retreat at the start of November when more information will be given about the position.
  4. We have already picked a focus for our department and I am already trying to help the other members figure out ways to help our students make gains.

So, it is in a way out of my comfort zone, but still something I feel comfortable doing.  I just have to get to know the people and have them get to know me so that they understand when I am being sarcastic, goofy, serious, and what not.

This is my five minute post for Stream of Consciousness Sunday.  I link up with Jana's Thinking Place.  Today's prompt: What have you done recently or would like to do that's outside your comfort zone?  You can visit her site to see others who link up and link up yourself if you like.  It is easy - five minutes of free writing on the given prompt (or whatever is on your mind), link up, read others' posts.

24 comments:

  1. I can't even imagine the huge responsibility it would be to run a department within the education system. Wow! You're dealing with a lot of educated ideas and opinion. I wish you much luck and success while you're outside your comfort zone. Just think how much you'll be learning in the process. Fantastic!

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    1. It is a bit frightening, but hopefully, I can handle it. I'm sure I will definitely be learning, too.

      Thanks for the well wishes!

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  2. WOW! They obviously trust you since they're offering you the position.

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  3. Bravo. So glad that accepted the leadership role. My daughter has a teacher that during parent orientation kept saying that she hasn't taught this subject in a number of years. She said it over and over. My daughter says that she still says it to them. I can understand being unsure. We all feel that way, but it didn't to anything for our confidence as parents or her confidence in herself. Know you will be great in this new role. Proceed with confidence -- and soon you will be more comfortable.

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    1. People who say things like that in any situation where they work really irk me. I have taught something new almost all of my 9 years of teaching, but would never once let on to my students and NEVER the parents that that was the case - unless they really needed to know.

      Proceeding with confidence is a good rule to live by. I guess I should take my own advice I just wrote when it comes to this new position, huh?

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  4. Congratulations on your new position! I hope it turns out to be everything you're hoping for.

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    1. Thanks! Good to have you visiting again.

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  5. Wow is right! You just got there but it's a testament to your teaching skills and credentials. They recognize this. You'll get to know them and them you. Congratulations for the quick promotion to leader!

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    1. Thanks! They are a good bunch and I look forward to all the great things we can do in our department.

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  6. Congrats! Sounds exciting and scary at the same time! Good luck :)

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    1. Thanks! Both are definitely taking place - excitement and a bit of fear.

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  7. It sounds exciting. I'm in education as well and would take a department head job and would also be scared of the same things! My sarcasm would have to be introduced slowly after I found the people who appreciated it. ;-)

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    1. There has already been a meeting where I forgot to reign in the sarcasm and I think some didn't get it. Had to make sure they all knew I was kidding and not really serious. Hopefully, they catch on quick, and I am able to hold in some of my usual quick-fire comments.

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  8. How exciting for you! There must be so much going through your head - ideas, plans, hopes, and goals. Just wonderful opportunities in such an important field.

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    1. So much indeed! Especially since the school is still fairly new. It is definitely a wonderful opportunity. I'm glad you see it as an important field! ;-)

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  9. Congratulations on the "upgrade!" It does sound exciting, and wonderful, and terrifying all at once. Good luck taking on this role!
    Mina's Resurrection Blogfest!

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    1. Thanks! You made that silly Beyoncé song pop in my head (HELP - get it out!!)

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  10. Congrats on your new role! I'm sure you previous experience will help you excel quickly.

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  11. This is awesome! Congrats on your new role! I am a former Social Studies teacher as well. Good luck this new adventure! :-)

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    1. Thanks! I'm sure as a former teacher you know the joys and struggles of teaching Social Studies.

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  12. Oh my. I can't even imagine being a leader in that way. I am definitely not a take charge and lead type of person. But good for you! I am sure you will learn a lot in the process. :)

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    1. I am definitely learning a lot already!

      Thanks for commenting.

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