Creating a Friendly Administrator’s Office Space

Recall the days of being summoned to the principal’s inner sanctum as a child. The school leader perched behind an imposing desk, as you gazed up from your vantage point amid stacks of paperwork. Jay Schauer’s piece on classroom layouts has sparked reflection on the ambiance cultivated in the offices of school administrators. How do these leaders set up their spaces to encourage discussion, teamwork, and a celebration of children and education?

At the core is the design principle of “Form follows function.” The utilization of space, furniture selection and placement, technology for productivity, and artistic touches on the walls must all serve a clear purpose. No hefty budget, expansive room (many principals work in converted closets), or fancy construction materials are necessary.

What’s important is having areas designated for three key activities: a workspace for the administrator’s individual tasks, a sitting space for intimate conversations, and a conference table for group projects.

Personal workspace

A comfortable desk is essential for typing on a computer and handling paperwork. It is advisable to position the desk in a corner without a neighboring seat for visitors—reserving that for the sitting area. This setup allows the administrator to face a wall while working at the desk, leaving sunny spots for meetings.

A quick-reference bulletin board placed within arm’s reach of the desk can be useful. For instance, Rob used a PERT chart to track ongoing district initiatives. Seth adorned his board with a photo of Mr. Dioszeghy, his eighth-grade math teacher and mentor. When faced with a challenging issue at his desk, Seth would turn to Mr. Dioszeghy for advice.

Consider incorporating a portable standing desk for a healthier workspace. These models, designed to sit on top of a traditional desk, offer an adjustable raised surface. When fatigue sets in, the device can be easily folded for sitting. Some administrators even bring a Bluetooth-enabled speaker for post-work relaxation. Family photos and mementos can enhance emotional well-being and remind visitors of the human side of school administrators.

Sitting area for intimate talks

The sitting area serves as a space for conversations like feedback sessions with teachers, disciplinary meetings, or impromptu inquiries from visitors. Most discussions happen in a cozy living room setup: a circular coffee table surrounded by chairs. This arrangement fosters proximity and equal status without physical barriers.

Placing conversation starters on the table, such as James Mollison’s Playground book or a Slinky toy, can ease tension before sensitive discussions. This simple act can lead participants into exploring diverse settings or reminiscing about childhood experiences, thus relaxing the atmosphere. Tissues are also a practical addition to the table for emotional moments.

Conference space for group projects

The conference table is specifically designed for writing, typing, and fostering interactive idea exchanges while maintaining eye contact. Adjacent to it, a markerboard, interactive whiteboard, or large screen aids in presentations and note-taking. Portable furniture can expand the table’s capacity as needed, enabling versatile setups for different group activities.

Wall embellishments

Many school walls, particularly from the baby boom era, sport dull cinder blocks. Some administrators take matters into their own hands, giving the walls a vibrant makeover with colorful paint. This simple change can significantly uplift the environment where leaders spend numerous hours.

Adorning the walls with art not only enhances aesthetics but also communicates values such as care for children, learning, and diversity. Suggestions for wall decorations include student artwork, motivational posters, and bookshelves stocked with books for sharing during conversations.

• Wall displays can also serve as visual aids during meetings. For instance, Seth had a student illustrate a snowball scenario to symbolize avoiding escalating issues. These visual cues can guide discussions and reinforce key messages.

What sets your office apart? What decor or technology enhances collaboration? Share your office setup strategies with fellow school leaders to create inspiring spaces for all. Let’s build environments that promote productivity and well-being.