As a leader in Kentucky’s public schools, do you spend time training for and practicing leadership? Athletes and leaders share a common denominator—we work hard to be the best.
Earlier this year, I was introduced to the Leadership ChallengeTM, which is based on five practices of exemplary leadership:
1. Model the way
2. Inspire shared vision
3. Challenge the process
4. Enable others to act
5. Encourage the heart
These practices are the foundation of Jim Kouzes and Barry Posner’s research-based Leadership ChallengeTM. Like many tools, the Leadership ChallengeTM provided me with a 360 degree inventory plan of my strengths for exemplary leadership.
As I learned more about the five practices, I asked, “Who do I know that models each of these practices?” Dr. Carmen Coleman, superintendent of the Danville Ind. Schools (at the time) instantly came to mind. I could site very clear examples of her leadership in each of the five practices.
Later, I turned to members of my doctoral program cohort and posed the same question to them—A small sampling of leaders on the list include—Marshall Kemp, Larry Allen, Ed.D., Randy Poe, Ed.D., Christy Coulter, Alan Cross, Shelly Hendricks, Max Lucado, Jack Grayson, Martin Luther King, Jr., Nelson Mandela and Ronald Regan. These leaders are among us in person or spirit, and teach us daily.
Research shows leaders are at their best when they engage in these five practices. As we continue to shape KASA AND The Center for Education Leadership’s vision and develop a continuum of learning for school administrators, know that these five practices will be at the heart of the learning.
Marathoners, life adventure racers, cheerleaders, football players, dancers and school leaders have much in common. Practicing to be the best makes good sense.