Organizational Focus in the Life of a Principal
"Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” — 1 Corinthians 15:58
Shepherd Consulting has been serving Christian schools for some time now. Shepherd’s associates have sat on school committees, chaired school boards, and are (or have been) parents of students in Christian schools. We understand the unique dynamics of Christian education. And one of the things we know is that the life of a principal is extraordinarily challenging. So the real question for principal leadership in Christian schools is this: “How do you navigate such a multi-dimensional life as a principal… and stay sane?”
Allow me to provide just three recommendations among many:
1. Recognize that you are not the owner of the school; you are the servant. In healthy schools, principals understand that they are part of a wider team of leaders. The first level of ownership (when things are going well) rests with the board. A healthy board often translates into a healthy principal, because such a board knows when to be involved, when to write a policy, and when to be strategic. The board should take the lead on deciding the best course of action in consultation with the principal. Then the principal can act as the servant to their “ownership” decision. Ensure your board is healthy, and you should feel some of the weight and complexity lifted from your shoulders.
2. Know the right “tool” for the job (operations, policy, or strategy). Together with the board, learn how to navigate the differences between the need for a policy, active engagement, or the refinement of a strategic goal as a solution. In current times, schools are often juggling dozens of policies – sometimes 80 or more – that must be understood and lived out! That’s a heavy load—not only for the principal, but also for the board and the staff. Remember that a policy may not be the end goal of a board’s leadership conversation with you. Instead, policies should serve as a framework that supports strategy and mission. Strategy should always remain alive, while policy has its place only in the right season.
3. Seek to distribute leadership across the school’s personnel. As principal, you don’t have to be the only person reporting to the board or receiving instruction from them. In a world where “cc’ing” someone is commonplace, why not allow other leaders (such as VPs) to report to the board—whether in writing or orally upon invitation—while copying the principal for oversight? This approach lightens the principal’s load, gives the board a fuller picture of school life, and even builds succession planning into the school’s leadership culture. It’s a beautiful thing.
In other non-profits, these three behaviours are often viewed as 'Distributed leadership.' At best, they prevent the senior leader from becoming a “bottleneck.” Put simply, as principal, you can remain aware of the overall direction of the school while encouraging other forms of leadership around you, building a truly collaborative team.
Of course, these recommendations need more nuance (and biblically rootedness) than what you just read. Governance and leadership training may serve you and your school community well in this regard. If you are a principal or board member of a local Christian school, don’t hesitate to contact Shepherd Consulting. Our growing track record with schools continues to foster Christian leadership health.
SHEPHERD'S SPOTLIGHT: Christian Business Leaders
Committed Christian leaders do not always work in churches, schools, or non-profits. It was John Calvin who was purported to have said, "We need more Christian business[people], not pastors." It's why we are excited to work on great leadership planning and decision-making for leaders outside the realm of Christian schools, churches, and charities (even though that remains our central focus).
In this case, Big Tree Properties/Urban Plains Management from Winkler, Manitoba, is taking full advantage of Shepherd's tools in coaching, staff assessments (Birkman-Grip), and Strategic Planning. Owner Tim Suderland seeks to demonstrate "full Christ-like integrity" in his work, to his staff, and to those he reaches as clients and tenants in his property management business through this effort with Shepherd.
We are super-excited to walk this journey with Tim as God opens up the next chapter of his business life through this process. We would encourage you to check out his website here. And, if you are looking for residential or commercial property in Winkler, connect with him!
If you are a Christian leader in a business setting, don't hesitate to reach out to us.
Rev Dr Darren Roorda (Founder and Principal Consultant) has served in Non-Profit Leadership for over 23 years.
His roles as Executive Director, International Liaison, Project Manager, Pastor, and even Official Lobbyist have helped hone his education in Leadership, Governance, and Theology.
D. Min., Pro Dir, Partner of The Alliance for Board Effectiveness. Professional Member of the Canadian Centre for Christian Charities
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email: info@shepherdconsulting.ca
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