with William D. Parker and Friends
: Play in new window | DownloadWhen I was in junior high school, everyone on my basketball team wore Converse high-tops. Yes, that means I’m officially from the 70’s! I’ll never forget mine: They were the color of golden-rod, and I…
: Play in new window | DownloadA few years ago, we had a lockdown drill at the high school where I was principal. Local police had called to say they were aware of a potential threat against our school on…
: Play in new window | DownloadOklahoma has experienced its share of storms and severe weather this spring. The other day, our family was sitting in our storm closet as sirens were sounding at 6:30AM. Afterwards, I was driving my…
: Play in new window | DownloadWhen Principal Jen Schwanke was talking to one of her teachers about the importance of balance, her teacher asked an honest question. “Why should I do this when you don’t?” Jen realized then that…
: Play in new window | DownloadWe just celebrated Mother’s Day. This time of year is a good reminder that our families play such an important role in our lives outside of school. No matter how many principals I visit,…
: Play in new window | DownloadSeveral weeks ago, I had the privilege of visiting Norman High School, in Norman, Oklahoma. Dr. Scott Beck was recently named Oklahoma’s High School Principal of the Year, and I wanted to touch-base with…
: Play in new window | DownloadRecently, the teachers at Indian Run Elementary, in Dublin, Ohio, organized a “Flash TACO bar” – a spontaneous buffet meal where they shared great food and fun together. As principal of the school, Jen…
: Play in new window | DownloadA few years ago, I sat across my desk from a student whose father had abandoned him and left the state. A family in our community had taken in the young man, and our…
: Play in new window | DownloadSpring time is here, and the landscape is green with new growth. Ironically, my wife told me that by the spring of each school year, she has decided that our marriage is falling apart,…
: Play in new window | DownloadOne of the biggest surprises for school new school leaders may be the conflicts that arise with adults. Whether you are encountering conflicts with parents, colleagues or community members, these situations can be difficult…