There are few things that are more exciting for kids than a new school year beginning. The excitement of seeing old friends, making new ones, new teachers, new opportunities, new supplies. Our work as educators is ensuring that the excitement and the joy remain as the school year progresses.

The same is true for leaders and teachers. A new beginning. A new group of students to inspire and thrill with new knowledge and skills that continue to grow each year. Whether one is the leader of the district, the campus, the team or department or the classroom each year must begin the same.

The welcome. Someone sees me. Someone knows me. Someone missed me. Someone is so glad to see me again. Someone is so happy to meet me. Applause to all leaders who are intent on making everyone feel important and essential to the work for students. All the moments we get to hear about each other, learn fun things about each other, all the brief time that begins to make connections and builds relationships is the first investment in our work together.

The message. After two difficult years, it is more important than ever to begin a new year with crystal clear clarity about the vision, the mission and the goals that are before every educator. Not everything everyone must do, just the drop-dead, non-negotiable expectations!

Known for its credible and essential research, Gallup recently offered some research that brings new importance of the expectations of our work, our environment, and our relationships. Think about this: About half of all workers are not completely clear about what they are supposed to do at work. Hard to imagine in education, but it happens easily. With so much to do and so many demands, one can get lost and lose confidence in just “doing’’ without clear direction, focus, or purpose.

Gallup offers all leaders from the board room to the classroom that high performance in every role starts with the leader consistently communicating expectations, purpose of a role, a clear understanding of priorities, and objective targets for improvement and growth. Clear and specific communication supports employees to understand what is expected of them and why…..and it starts the day they are hired, the day they return to work, and frequent conversations with focus throughout the year.

What are the most important expectations?

• A clear understanding of my role and responsibilities.
• A clear understanding of the expectations of the working environment and the organization.
• A team’s collective expectations and specific expectations of each other.

Beginning a new year begins with a clear focus and direction – it’s the essential, required, and winning strategy and it all begins with clear, articulated EXPECTATIONS.

Reference: Gallup Bulletin, June 2022