Visionary Leader/Administrator Reflection

In today's constantly changing and upgrading school world, a visionary leader is someone who takes a sincere interest and active role in the ways technologies are being used.

Visionary leaders know that technology improves student achievement and understand that being technology savvy is what helps students compete outside in the real world. They also firmly believe that when technology is incorporated into curriculum and instruction, students are not only preparing themselves for the outside world, but they also have a greater desire to come to and stay in school.

Along with believing in students and their ability/need to have technology skills, visionary leaders believe in having and honing those skills THEMSELVES. They understand how important it is for school staff members to be properly trained and up to date on the latest technologies so they can be ready for the next level in education and in relating to their students technologically. In order to continue being up to date with technology and using it in the classroom, visionary leaders often find the challenges of funding, implementing, and maintaining new technology to be their primary concerns at their schools. By having these concerns above others, they are paving the way for the shift towards a more student driven learning style, a vision that many normal administrators are reluctant to face.

Visionary leaders also understand what comes with the desire to implement new technology. They know that the putting the technology in place by itself is not enough. They are aware that it takes the a shared vision, planning, funding, skilled personnel, professional development, support, a shift to student centered learning and more engaging lessons. And they are making these components a priority to attend to in their schools.

Visionary leaders lastly have to be extremely open. Technology is exciting and wonderful, but it also has its setbacks and risks, especially when new and untested. These leaders must encourage their teachers to try new things and take risks in the classroom. They must be ready to collaborate and ask for help when a technology system has a problem. They must be willing and ready to tread new waters with confidence, and also have a back up plan if things backfire. They also need to be great communicators, ready to hear and respond to all different opinions and ideas about what will and will not work technologically in a school from the stance of staff, students, parents, and the community.

Visionary leaders are at the next level. It is a level we all hope to be at.