I was listening to American Public Media’s Marketplace the other day (I download the podcasts and listen on my iPhone – since I’m almost never home at 6:30pm to listen on WYSO) and heard them talk about what makes a difference to financial markets. It’s only 2 things- ready?
- Confidence
- Perception
That’s it.
So, when people make fun of the ideas that I present for Dayton Public Schools [1]– involving new technology, new ways of organizing tutoring and sports, and integrating with the City recreation programs- I wonder, are we afraid of being perceived as leaders, or exuding confidence by doing some unconventional things?
But, then, I see that our fearless leader, isn’t really still our fearless leader in today’s paper:
Mack in running for job in South [2]
Dayton Public Schools Superintendent Percy Mack is a finalist for superintendent in Mobile, Ala., and he expects to interview Wednesday.
If you want to send a message of no-confidence- interviewing for jobs is a great way to do it.
Two things need to be answered asap:
- Is there a number 2 to step up the moment Dr. Mack bolts town?
- Why shouldn’t the board fire Dr. Mack and get someone who knows how to say no?
Having a CEO who is looking for a job sends the wrong message. Maybe Dr. Mack is frustrated by being told when and how much he can ask for on a levy? Maybe, the candidates for the board scare him? Maybe, he figures that with the district slipping back into academic watch- this is the best time to leave?
What we need now is bold, visionary leadership- and as far as I’m concerned, Mobile- you can have him. He’ll probably bail on you too in your moment of need.
Dr. Mack really only has one option- tell Mobile, thank you, but no thanks. I’m here to make a difference, and I’m not done yet- if he really has the skills to lead our district.
Not only must the leadership be bold and visionary as you rightly say, but it also must be self-sacrificing to endure the times between implementation of successful programs and their effects. It’s easy to come in and have a “new day dawn” but if you’re unwilling to watch the sun rise all the way to high noon, you might as well be looking up at the stars.