Executive Viewpoint

DOING IT ALL FOR OUR BABIES!

Dr. Mike Hernandez, AAEA Executive Director

How many of you are singing the Huey Lewis song in your head right now? Ha! I realize that educators have been through a whirlwind of changes over the past few years and are becoming accustomed to a new assessment system. Challenges are nothing new to us, but it can be overwhelming. You may be asking yourself, “Why do I keep doing this?” The short answer is because the students need you! Administrators play a crucial role in shaping educational outcomes and creating environments that help our students learn. You face the complex task of managing the needs of students, teachers, and parents while navigating new laws and rules, financial constraints, and evolving educational environments. We must keep our heads up and focus on the task at hand. As we move into the holiday season, let's be thankful for the superpowers we have been blessed with.

Ability to Stretch Limited Resources

Administrators must fund infrastructure, technology, curriculum materials, extracurricular programs, and support services, all while maintaining competitive teacher salaries. I am thankful that we can balance between the demands for high-quality education and limited funding from state and federal sources. I am also thankful that we can make difficult decisions about what to prioritize within limited budgets, compromise between various needs and put out a quality educational program for our community.

Skill to Support a Diverse Student Population

We can create a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for students of all backgrounds, abilities, and needs. I am thankful we can accommodate students with disabilities, English language learners, students facing socioeconomic challenges, and those who need mental health support. We strive to comply with legislation such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Meeting these requirements can be challenging, especially with limited resources and time, but I am thankful we make it a priority and create an environment where all students feel valued.

Artful in Recruiting and Retaining Teachers and Staff

We understand that teachers are the cornerstone of any educational institution, and maintaining a strong team requires competitive salaries, professional development, and a supportive work environment. I am thankful that budget constraints and a heavy workload do not deter our efforts to offer attractive conditions to curb turnover rates. I am grateful that we have found a way to fill teaching positions, particularly in high-demand subjects like STEM and special education. And when we can’t find that substitute or bus driver, we roll up our sleeves and do it ourselves. I am thankful for our ability to boost staff morale and build deep relationships with our educators.

A Knack for Navigating Policy Changes and Reforms

Even though our policies are constantly evolving, we are quick to implement new policies, adopt new assessment systems, and comply with various regulations. I am thankful for our careful planning and adjustment to whatever comes our way. Administrators can stay up-to-date with policy changes and deal with pressure to improve test scores and meet certain metrics while supporting social-emotional learning and critical thinking skills.

Masterful in Community Engagement and Communication

We are liaisons between the school and the broader community, including parents, local businesses, and government agencies. I am thankful for our effective communication to keep parents informed, fostering trust, and ensuring community support for school initiatives. All this while each patron has unique concerns, perspectives, and expectations. Administrators can communicate clearly and transparently to build trust.

Steadfast for Physical and Emotional Safety

We have made school safety a paramount concern and have implemented measures that protect students and staff from both physical threats and emotional harm. I am thankful for all our safety protocols, emergency preparedness drills, and enforcement of anti-bullying policies that are in place across Arkansas. We have done this with strong leadership, well-trained staff, and clear policies. I am thankful we fortified the school environment all while creating a welcoming atmosphere that does not feel restrictive or intimidating.

What we do is a multifaceted role that requires a balance of vision, practical management skills, and compassion. The challenges you face every day are complex and interconnected. Your superpowers do not go unnoticed. I am thankful for the strong leadership, strategic decision-making, and commitment to student-centered values we have in this state. I am confident that we will continue to address these challenges and help each other create educational environments that promote learning, growth, and well-being for all our babies. Thank you for all you do! We are here for you.