Hyacinth Butcher

“Education is not the filling of a pool, but the lighting of a fire.”

William Burke Yeats

 

I am inspirational, motivational, and devoted to being supportive to all. I love a camaraderie, which promotes loyalty, encourages continuous learning and educational challenges, professionalism that allows me to be faithful to embrace every task or challenge. I consider myself an exceptionally good listener and a strong team player. These skills have allowed me to build strong and effective relationships both as a teacher and as a leader. I appreciate the presence of structured organizations that provides the opportunity for capacity building and professional development that aide in the ability to cooperate at all levels.

As a person who is fair in my endeavours, I am not afraid to pursue challenges or make unpopular decisions in relation to my colleagues for the benefit of the school. These are some of the qualities that underpin my personal philosophy in leadership. The following is my personal educational philosophy in leadership, as an educator in the 21^st century.

 I believe that Leadership is the art of encouraging and inspiring others not only to see their potential, but to guide and assist in being the best that they can be. I strongly believe that a 21^st century leader should be instrumental, knowledgeable, and relevant, in guiding the teachings and learnings necessary for well-rounded students, equipping them not only in book knowledge, but strong social and moral skills needed to foster productive citizens.

As an aspiring 21^st century leader, the integration of technological best practices will be my key mission for an ideal learning environment, geared towards success for all. I am convinced that the integration of technology engages learners, accommodates multiple intelligences, and can foster a positive, lasting impression on the learner. I strongly believe that such technological integration and digital literacy will not only help my students but will also enhance my professional development as well as all members of staff.

It is a strong belief of mine that an effective leader should know their faculty well, support and find avenues for their professional development while taking interest in them as individuals. Therefore, recognizing personal achievements is invaluable in boosting the overall morale and unity of staff. I also believe that being approachable is one of my qualities which will allow staff members to feel comfortable communicating with me whether on good or bad terms.

 Actions speak louder than words, and I believe in leading by example. I will not ask anyone to make decisions that are inappropriate to their level of responsibility or beyond their ability. I will encourage creativity, freedom of action and innovation, where these efforts are consistent with the mission, vision, and values of the school.

It is my belief that educational leaders need to create a culture of responsibility in their schools, to develop a concept of control and safety with technology as a shared responsibility among educators, students, and families.

I believe in becoming a global leader in the use of technology, as I am aware that effective school leaders need to understand how other countries develop curriculum, integrate technology in professional development and handle school related issues. This information would aide in developing programs for my school which would allow staff and students to gain imperative knowledge about other countries cultures and be relevant in an ever-shrinking competitive world.

In conclusion, (Routman 2012), states that for educational leaders to be successful in our increasingly technological world, they must be skilled in the use of technology. Research has consistently shown that this is especially important to improve student achievement as an effective leader is the most vital factor in a student’s success. I believe that integration of relevant and current transformative technology will be crucial for schools to engage students in addressing real-world problems, issues and questions that matters. (Devine 2012).