Final Reflection

I have used parts of every course I took during this master’s program, but certain courses have
proven to be especially beneficial. School Administration and Leadership was eye opening
because it gave me the opportunity to discuss concepts presented in the course with my
administrator. It broke down all the roles a principal must fulfill. Learning about all the duties
was a little intimidating at times, but my administrator helped to build my confidence up during
our meetings. Personnel Administration was great because it allowed me to develop an in-service
from scratch. Having attended many in-services, I had no idea what it took to create a successful
one. The Principal’s Corner was something I looked forward to reading. The part of the class that
I have been able to implement at my school already was the recruitment piece. We cannot recruit
good teachers to our school, especially specials teachers, because the pay is so low. Developing a
recruitment plan for my private school allowed me to think outside the box. I think it will be
useful in the future, as many of our teachers begin retiring. Supervision of Instruction required
me to speak with my principal regularly. I asked him questions that aligned with the course’s
lessons, and it gave me a lot of insight into multiple topics. The class covered topics from
Professional Learning Communities to teachers’ distrust of the supervision process to mentoring
and induction of new teachers. Every forum and assignment dealt with real world school issues. I
really enjoyed my classmates and their opinions and discussion posts.
I was usually the only teacher with a private school background in my courses. This started so
many good conversations with my peers. They asked me many questions, and I learned a great
deal from them and their public school experiences. I really began to think I may be ready for a
change, and I decided to apply for a public school job for next school year. I am a bit anxious
about it, but I know I will have the skills I need to be successful. Many of the forum discussions I
participated in helped me realize I am ready to move on.
To summarize, I really appreciate how this program allowed me to learn by focusing on
myself…the kind of educator I am and the kind of principal I will be. It let me work on my
school’s needs. I was able to improve my school thanks to many of the assignments. I was even
able to develop a brochure for my state-licensed dog rescue! So many aspects of my life were
improved by taking these classes. Working with my cooperating administrators was the icing on
the cake. I learned what to do, but I also learned what not to do. They are so different in the way
they lead their schools. I took note of the actions that seemed to really benefit their schools, staff,
and students, but I also witnessed actions that I felt could be handled differently…better.
Every professor I had during this time was easy to contact, and I felt comfortable asking
questions and getting feedback. My sister battled cancer and passed away while I was working
toward my degree, and I felt supported by everyone I dealt with at Chadron State College. All
my professors understood that life can sometimes be busy and messy. I felt challenged and
sometimes even frustrated while working toward this degree, but I appreciated the high
expectations placed on me. I look back at assignments and projects I worked so hard on, and I
am proud of all I accomplished.
I have been talking about obtaining a higher degree for a decade. I just did not know what I
wanted to work toward. I am grateful I went for a degree in Administration because it will open
so many doors for me. I am not ready to leave the classroom yet, but I know that day will come.