Blogs for Certification: January 2012

Sunday, January 29, 2012

Interview with the Superintendent

I interviewed Dr. Darrell Myers, Superintendent of schools where I work, Livingston Independent School District. Dr. Myers was easily assessable and eager to help me. In setting up the interview I just explained to him the assignment and we put a convenient time down on both our calendars to complete the task.

Dr. Myers’ definition of leadership was, “the ability to build consensus among people to reach a common goal.” How true is this? This seemed to be such a simple answer but when truly thought about, the difficulty in accomplishing this goal can be quite enormous. Leaders work with a diverse group of people and must utilize skills that reach each one. The ability to get a group to work together for the common good takes a leadership style that has effective communication skills and an ability to allow people to be a part of the process of reaching the goal.

Many of the thoughts Dr. Myers’ has regarding the attributes of a good superintendent are aligned with what I want to see in a superintendent. He answered the question listing characteristics. High on his list was having integrity and being ethical. He thought it was imperative that the superintendent be a good listener and even keeled. He talked about the importance of not making “knee jerk reactions” of any kind. He also thought it was important to have a good thorough knowledge of school finance and have a strong background in academics. In listening to his answer, I thought it was a reflection of him and his leadership style. Dr. Myers is a great listener and never over reacts. He has always been a man of integrity and high ethical standards. His knowledge of the superintendent’s position is shown through his actions and the state of our district. Sense his tenure our district has improved every year.

One of the answers I was eager to hear is how the superintendent builds a good working relationship with the Board. Dr. Myers explained his style was to always be honest and forth right. He said that when he made a mistake, “he owned up to it.” Most importantly, he said to take responsibility for what goes on in the district. I do realize it is critical for the superintendent to develop a relationship with the school board. Being from a small town I have always known school board members and they were my friends. It is interesting to see from a professional side how to develop the relationship; clear, open and honest communication is imperative.

I loved the answer on how the superintendent accomplishes such wide ranging strategic planning. Dr. Myers philosophy is to utilize leadership teams. He works with his leadership team of campus administrators so that they can take information back to the campus level. He gives the site based decision making teams on each campus the opportunity to come up with strategies and implement a plan for the campus. Dr. Myers understands that it takes a lot of people working together to prepare and implement a task of this magnitude.

When asked how a superintendent should approach the management of everything from budget to technology applications Dr. Myers has a team philosophy. He hires candidates in that area that are considered experts. He trusts them to know their specialization and to do their job, but he also holds them accountable. By involving the leadership team, it is a group advocacy that serves the district better than by doing it yourself. Dr. Myers truly believes that involving people in the decision making process gives them ownership and is the best way to lead.

After reflecting on Dr. Myers’ answers in the interview, it was quite indicative that he relies on the leadership team he has built to help him accomplish the vision of having “successful students by meeting their needs.” His answers to the questions seemed so simple, but with more thought, the true meaning of his answers have a deep message and major implications. His true belief, as the leader of the district, is “to do what is right for the students and be a servant leader.” Dr. Myers always seems to do what is right regardless of the political implications. What better way to leave on a Friday, by knowing the philosophy of your superintendent, a man working for the success of students with high standards of character and helping those around him to become better and having their best interest at heart.

This interview taught me that I wanted to instill these same skills into my leadership style. I learned that I want to surround myself with intelligent, capable, and hardworking people that have an array of specializations that will work together for the best of the students. These people need to have high standards of character and integrity. Having effective communication skills will be instrumental in bringing everyone together to achieve a common goal. I realize this interview was just a start to the in depth understanding of the role of the superintendent.

P Hall Vita

PENNEE HALL

203 Post Oak Street, Livingston, TX. 77351

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION

M.Ed. Stephen F Austin State University, Nacogdoches, TX, 1995

B. S. in Ed. The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 1989

Superintendent Certificate Lamar University, Beaumont,Texas (in progress)

Standard Principal Certificate EC-12, Texas, expires June 30, 2012

Provisional Teaching Certificate 6-12 Secondary Mathematics, Texas, Life

Provisional Teaching Certificate 6-12 Secondary Physical Education, Texas, Life

PDAS Certified Texas, 1999

ILD Certified Texas, 2006

ADMINISTRATIVE and LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE

Director of Human Resources, Livingston ISD

Livingston, TX, September 2011-present

Develop recruitment and retention strategies for district personnel.
Develop and implement a screening and selection process for all employees.
Work with principals and other administrators to forecast staffing needs and develop staffing plans.
Ensure that all teachers are highly qualified.
Administer employment contracts and supervise contract renewals and non-renewals.
Provide equal employment opportunity and work cooperatively with others to ensure compliance with federal and state laws and regulations.
Assist supervisory personnel in conducting due-process procedures.
Direct and monitor employee performance appraisal and ensure that supervisors have proper training.
Assist supervisors and principals with employee counseling and improvement plans where needed.
Oversee the necessary processing for issuance and renewal of state certificates and permits.
Analyze wage and salary data and recommend effective compensation plans.
Develop and implement procedures for salary administration and placement of new hires.
Administer leave benefit programs and monitor employee attendance patterns.
Develop and implement procedures for the preparation and updating of job descriptions and for the proper classification of positions in the district compensation plan.
Administer the teacher salary schedule and service records.
Oversee compliance with federal wage and overtime laws and ensure proper timekeeping for nonexempt personnel.
Manages the district’s health insurance, optional employee benefits, workers’ compensation, and unemployment compensation benefit programs.
Works with insurance vendors and third party administrators.
Provides employees with information about benefits and advocates on their behalf.
Reviews and recommends changes in benefit programs.
Promote collegiality, teamwork, and collaborative decision making among staff.

Implement procedures to ensure that employees are informed of personnel policies, procedures, and programs that affect them.
Implement and oversee effective districtwide employee recognition programs.
Coordinate communication and mediation processes for employee complaints, grievances, and concerns.
Monitor employee retention and turnover through analysis of data and exit interviews.
Develop and monitor the annual budget for the department.
Implement the policies established by federal and state laws, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy in the area assigned.
Supervise personnel records management and oversee compliance with the state records management program.
Develop and maintain systems for retrieval of information in support of all programs.
Compile, maintain, file, and secure all physical and electronic reports, records, and other required documents.
Hire, organize, and direct the work activities of department staff.
Evaluate job performance of department staff to ensure effectiveness.
Provide training and development for department staff.
Ensure that department operations contribute to the attainment of district goals and objectives.
Develop and monitor the annual budget for the department.
Attend board meetings regularly and make presentations to the board.
Participate in professional development activities to maintain current knowledge of human resource rules, regulations, and practices.

Associate Athletic Director, Livingston ISD

Livingston, TX, 2004 – September 2012

Directed and managed district’s athletic program and facilities.
Enforced physical and academic eligibility requirements for participation in each sport.
Maintained an active program that promotes good sportsmanship and student development.
Obtained and used evaluative findings to gauge athletic program effectiveness and ensure that program renewal is continuous and responsive to student needs.
Planned necessary time, resources, and materials to support accomplishment of department goals.
Prepared and approved all interscholastic game schedules.
Managed district athletic operations by directing ticket sales, employing game officials, and ensuring preparation of facilities.
Oversaw the process of cleaning, repairing, and storing all athletic equipment.
Coordinated the use of all athletic facilities.
Planned, organized, and supervised all athletic awards programs.
Implemented district student management policies, communicated expected student behavior related to athletics, and ensured the enforcement of student discipline in accordance with Student Code of Conduct and athletic handbook.
Established and maintained open lines of communication by conducting conferences on vital issues with parents, students, and teachers.
Implemented the policies established by federal law, state law, State Board of Education rule, UIL rules, and local board policy in area of athletics.
Compiled, maintained, filed, and presented all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required.
Administered the athletic budget and ensure that programs are cost effective and that funds are managed prudently.
Compiled budgets and cost estimates based on documented program needs.
Initiated purchase orders and bids in accordance with budgetary limitations and district policies.
Maintained a current inventory of supplies and equipment and recommend disposal and replacement of equipment when necessary.
Approved and forwarded purchase orders for athletic department to accounting department.
Recruited, selected, trained, and supervised athletic department personnel and made sound recommendations about personnel placement, assignments, retention, discipline, and dismissal.
Evaluated job performance of employees to ensure effectiveness.
Developed training options and/or improvement plans for employees to ensure exemplary operation in area of athletics.
Used appropriate and effective techniques to encourage community and parent involvement.
Supported athletic booster club activities and attended meetings.

TEACHING EXPERIENCE

High School Math Teacher,

Barbers Hill High School, Mont Belvieu, TX, 1992-2001

Worked with other members of staff to determine instructional goals, objectives, and methods according to district requirements.
Helped students analyze and improve study methods and habits.
Conducted ongoing assessment of student achievement through formal and informal testing.
Was a positive role model for students, support mission of school district.
Created classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social, and emotional development of students.

High School Math Teacher,

Clark High School, San Antonio, TX, 1990-1992

Managed student behavior in accordance with Student Code of Conduct and student handbook.
Took all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
Assisted in selection of books, equipment, and other instructional materials.
Established and maintain open communication by conducting conferences with parents, students, principals, and teachers.
Maintained a professional relationship with colleagues, students, parents, and community members.
Used effective communication skills to present information accurately and clearly

High School Math Teacher,

Dayton High School, Dayton, TX, 1989-1990

Developed and implemented lesson plans that fulfill the requirements of district’s curriculum program and show written evidence of preparation as required.
Prepared lessons that reflect accommodations for differences in student learning styles.
Planned and used appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities, materials, and equipment that reflect understanding of the learning styles and needs of students assigned.
Participated in staff development activities to improve job-related skills.
Attended and participated in faculty meetings.

COACHING EXPERIENCE

Head Basketball Coach,

Livingston High School, Livingston, TX, 2004-2011

· Used a variety of instructional techniques and media to meet the needs and improve the abilities of student athletes in the sport assigned.

· Managed and supervised athletic activities, contests, and practice sessions to promote individual growth in athletic skills, teamwork, and good sportsmanship.

· Took all necessary precautions to protect student athletes, equipment, materials, and facilities.

Assistant Basketball Coach,

Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches, TX, 2001-2004

Developed recruiting strategies to attract athletes to the program.
Developed and implemented a screening and selection process for recruiting athletes.
Work with the head coach to forecast team needs and develop a recruiting plan.
Served as camp director.
Kept informed and ensured compliance with NCAA rules.

Head Basketball Coach,

Barbers Hill High School, Mont Belvieu, TX, 1992-2001

· Accompanied and supervised student athletes during athletic competitions in assigned sports on out-of-town trips.

· Instructed and advised students on NCAA regulations with regard to academic requirements for scholarships and recruiting practices.

· Went undefeated in 100 straight district ball games.

Head Basketball Coach,

Clark High School, San Antonio, TX, 1990-1992

· Monitored and enforced student eligibility criteria for extracurricular participation

· Applied and enforced student discipline during athletic contests, practice sessions, and while on trips off school property in accordance with Student Code of Conduct and athletic handbook.

· Kept informed and ensured compliance with all UIL rules.

Head Basketball Coach,

Dayton High School, Dayton, TX, 1989-1990

· Encouraged, by example and through instruction, sportsmanlike conduct in all phases of athletic participation.

· Established and maintained open communication by conducting conferences with parents, students, principals, and teachers.

· Assisted in selection of equipment

PRESENTATIONS

Hall, P. (2005, July). Drills to Obtain Champions. Speech presented at the TGCA Summer Clinic, Austin, Texas.

Hall, P. (1999, April). An Effective Practice Plan. Speech presented at the WBCA Final Four Convention, St, State.

Hall, P. (1997, May). Progressions in a Controlled Fast Break. Speech presented at the TABC Clinic, San Antonio, Texas.

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

Texas Association of School Personnel Administrators, 2011-present

Texas Association of Basketball Coaches, 1989-present

Texas Girls Coaches Association, 1989-present

HONORS and AWARDS

Coach of the Year; District 18-4A, Livingston, TX, 2008

Hall of Fame Inductee; Texas High School Basketball Hall of Fame, San Antonio, TX, 2007

Coach of the Year; District 24-3A, Mont Belvieu, TX, 1999

Coach of the Year; District 24-3A, Mont Belvieu, TX, 1998

Coach of the Year; District 24-3A, Mont Belvieu, TX, 1997

All Star Coach, Soul Patrol; Houston, TX 1998

Coach of the Year; Texas Sports Writers, Mont Belvieu, TX, 1997

Coach of the Year; TGCA, Austin, TX, 1997

Coach of the Year; District 22-3A, Mont Belvieu, TX, 1996

Coach of the Year; District 22-3A, Mont Belvieu, TX, 1995

Coach of the Year; District 22-3A, Mont Belvieu, TX, 1994

Coach of the Year; District 23-3A, Mont Belvieu, TX, 1993

South Division All Star Coach; TGCA, Austin, TX, 1993

Scholar Athlete Award; The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 1988

Scholar Athlete Award, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 1987

CHAMPIONSHIPS

Southland Conference Tournament Champions, Stephen F. Austin State University, 2002

Southland Conference Champions, Stephen F. Austin State University, 2002

State Champions 3A Girls Basketball, Mont Belvieu, TX, 1997

State Qualifiers 3A Girls Basketball, Mont Belvieu, TX, 1993

Undefeated National Champions, The University of Texas, Austin, TX, 1986

REFERENCES

Dr. Darrell Myers, Superintendent

Livingston ISD

P.O. Box 1297

Livingston, TX 77351

(936) 328-2100; dmyers@livingstonisd.com

Diana Kelm, Deputy Superintendent

Livingston ISD

P.O. Box 1297

Livingston, TX 77351

(936) 328-2100; dkelm@livingstonisd.com

Ben Davidson, Director of Finance

Livingston ISD

P.O. Box 1297

Livingston, Texas 77351

(936) 328-2100, bdavidson@livingstonisd.com

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

How Educational Leaders Might Use Blogs

Educational leaders may use blogs for many reasons. One reason a blog may be used is so the leader may present a more personal connectivity with their audience. This is a time when what is happening can be expressed in a way that feels real and more genuine. Blogs may make a leader come across as more approachable. Another way to use blogs may be to set the climate for a campus. Blogs also allow the leader to be in constant contact with the public; and by using a blog, the communication is easily assessable to a large amount of people quickly. With today’s generation it is imperative that the educational leader stay up to date with the means of communication his clients will be using. Today, blogs are a way to do this. However, the leader must be cautious to always remain professional.

Action Research

Action research is a reflective process of people working together to solve problems, enhance knowledge, and improve practices. By working together in a collaborative environment, groups and individuals can become more informed about the issues that are being researched. Teams interacting together can better educate those around them with best and worst practices. Sharing the experiences of each member will allow for greater learning through those experiences. By participating in groups, every angle of a situation may be seen differently by different members of the group; therefore, individuals of the group will be able to view things in a broader manner. This will allow individuals to think outside their box and see things in a variety of ways. This type of collaborative interaction will allow for better networking through the educational community. Technological skills will also be enhanced by integrating them into the process, allowing for an easy mode of communication. Action research challenges individuals to be prepared, by analyzing data and detailing a new course of action for growth. Simply, practitioners will be able to improve by examining their own work and experiences. Many times this requires change. By using action research, individuals will be able to improve their own leadership skills. Hopefully, by applying the knowledge gained through this process each group member will have success in their role as an educator and become the educational leader the field needs in the 21^st century.

Monday, January 23, 2012

Building My Own Blog

Blogs, have I heard of them? Yes. Have I ever had my own? No, and I really did not have an idea on where to go to develop a blog. I found that it was a very simple process to obtain and setup a blog. It was so simple, I accidentally set up two and am now trying to delete one. The hardest thing about setting up the blog was deciphering the security letters, an unbelievable experience that took numerous attempts. In the process of designing my blog, I named it “Blogs for Certification” with the URL address being http://pennee-hall.blogspot.com/. After the initial set-up and naming, I chose a simple, user friendly layout. My blog is very basic at the moment and I am still learning how to use it with confidence. Hopefully in the near future I will be able to make it more of a reflection of me. I hope to use my blog as my personal journey throughout this course. Hopefully, my blog and the blogs of others will give in-depth insight into the thoughts, trials, assignments and growth experienced in this certification process. Using this type of technology to collaborate with colleagues will allow me to become a better leader in the field of education.