“HOW’S IT LOOKING, MABEL?

by Janalyn Taylor, Nance ES Principal, Clinton Public Schools and OAESP President

Most mornings I ask the secretary, “How’s it looking, Mabel? The secretary, who takes care of finding substitutes daily, is really not Mabel, but is named Virginia. A few years ago in an effort to add a little levity, Virginia said, “Mabel, we have a problem.” The Mabel thing just stuck. Now, after adjusting our mindset, if either one mentions Mabel, we know we are going to look for a solution rather than focusing on a problem.

As leaders we come across problems or questions all day long. It doesn’t stop with school days. The calls, texts, and social media messages can feel nonstop. Weekend naps are often interrupted. Holiday meals aren’t even a time that we can be sure someone won’t feel the need to contact us. Making decisions and addressing problems will wear out even a seasoned pro. Staying in the professional realm of not reaching out to just anyone can also make us feel isolated as we think through best options.

Perhaps we should think back to Mabel (or maybe Malcolm). Instead of looking at each situation as a problem, we reframe it as finding a solution. Taking that proactive approach can lead to an important change in mindset. Once Virginia and I began thinking positively and knowing the solution was a possibility, our attitudes changed. Rather than being frustrated with teachers who called last minute or angry with substitute challenges, we began to focus on the process as a doable task and tackled it quickly. Our morning was brighter and we felt less resentment that really wasn’t necessary.

In my office and in the staff newsletter I posted the quote by Joan Borysenko, “Every day brings a choice to practice stress or to practice peace.” Staff members mentioned the quote as valuable and when it was erased from the board in the office a teacher asked, “Where is our quote?” As leaders we are meant to inspire others. We are meant to lead staff in knowing we are not just what we do but who we are as a staff. From a leadership perspective I focused on three things to lead in that direction.

First, we looked for staff members who were experts in solutions for specific problems. Mrs. Davis, Mrs. Littke, and Ms. Barnes knew arrival and dismissal procedures like the back of their hands. When we began a new car line system, these were the ones we called on. Mrs. Ray, Mrs. Bridges, and Mrs. Adkinson excelled at supporting teachers when behavior issues arose. Of course you understand, we all have staff members who can find the solutions. They don’t get bogged down by the challenges, but rather puzzle through to find what will work best for all.

As leaders we also feel the immediacy of finding solutions. There are times when we have to answer quickly, and many times we sense a pressure from others that makes us doubt our abilities to lead. Unless a decision has to be made right on the spot, begin taking the time to breathe and think through solutions. After changing this philosophy, the staff is now accustomed to hearing that I will think about the solution and get back with them soon if not the next day. Parents are very open to having me listen to their concerns and then get back to them the next day if some investigating needs to be done. Many times a solution becomes much more clear after a good night’s sleep. The key is to always get back to the person with the question.

Lastly, we need to build networks. Relationships with other leaders give us an opportunity to ask questions and seek advice. It reminds us that like ourselves, other school leaders deal with the same issues we do. Either way, focus on solutions. Share problems, be vulnerable, but always seek solutions. By sharing this mindset with other principals we all grow in the way we handle daily activities within our own sites.

In the future, when you hear a problem, think of Mabel/Malcolm. Rather than focusing on the long list of things that are preventing action, look at it as an opportunity to lead and find a solution. Breathe and choose peace. Gather up your experts and celebrate their ability to find answers you might never have visualized. Don’t rush…take time to evaluate the best solution not the quickest one. Phone a friend in your network for extra support. Finding solutions is the perfect opportunity to lead by example.

And remember, whether it is Mabel or Malcolm, you’ve got this! ■