Starting Out as a Fresh School Leader

Upon joining the team four years ago, I assumed the role of middle school director at Francis Parker School of Louisville. As soon as I made this update on LinkedIn, a flood of advice came pouring in from various connections, ranging from former bosses to my childhood baseball coach.

Given that this was my first official administrative position, I was fortunate to have a strong and supportive network of professionals willing to offer their perspectives. I eagerly listened to their suggestions.

The counsel I received was predominantly constructive and practical, including recommendations like exploring Robert Greenleaf’s Servant Leadership, subscribing to The Marshall Memo, and acquiring a Full Focus Planner. However, at times, the advice presented conflicting viewpoints—pushing me in seemingly opposite directions from one conversation to the next.

Initially, I was urged to establish my authority; subsequently, I was advised to prioritize consensus even on minor matters. In one instance, I was told not to focus on insignificant details, while in another, I was advised to pay attention to small issues. I was encouraged to uphold a level of formality while also maintaining approachability.

Amidst these varied recommendations, I found it challenging to navigate. It wasn’t until I stumbled upon a quote in Paul Kirschner and Carl Hendrick’s book, How Learning Happens, that I gained the clarity I was seeking: “It’s not about what works; it’s about what works for you.”

As I transition from my current position at Francis Parker to a new role at the American International School Chennai, I’ve been meticulously reviewing over 70 pages of notes taken during early discussions, email exchanges, and virtual meetings. My objective has been to identify the advice that truly resonated with me. Perhaps some of my insights will prove beneficial to you as well.