We’re happy to share this perspective on leadership from educational consultant (and DAL committee member), Christina Fecio. “What is leadership?” When I ask that question in a group, at least one person is always compelled to google it and/or someone answers it with an inspirational quote. As a self-admitted “word nerd” I do love a …
Author Archives: Christina Fecio, Educational Consultant
Quick Tips: Managing Clearances
Directors in WNY have shared questions regarding the recent regulatory changes. Our first tip, of course, is to suggest open, honest communication with your licensor — don’t be afraid to call him/her with your questions. Separately, we’d like to suggest checking out this informational video from OCFS, if you haven’t seen it yet: Comprehensive Background …
Quick Tip: Connect with Every Team Member, Every Day
Engaging in warm, positive, 1:1 daily interactions with children is recommended as a key strategy for building relationships with young children — but did you know it’s equally essential for adults? Whether you’re commenting on something that you observed (“Hey, I appreciated that engagement you had with Dion”) or offering a simple, sincere “thank you” …
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Quick Tip: Make a Short List
When you have a loooooooong to-do list that is interrupted by bathroom breaks, phone calls, and other things that reliably pop up, it’s easy to be busy all day long and still wrap up the day feeling like you didn’t accomplish anything. A short list can help you stay focused and productive — and it’s …
Quick Tip: Treats for Your Team
A new school year, like every season of change, is busy and can feel overwhelming to children and adults alike. To help teachers manage the transition, add a little pick-me-up to your staff lounge. Show them you care with a “de-stress basket” that contains various teas, coffees, snacks, a stress ball and/or adult coloring pages, …
Quick Tip: Think Positively!
In a world where we’re bombarded with negative information — social media, news, advertisements, and more — it can help your mindset (and your productivity) to focus on the positive. Consider posting a few positive, inspirational quotes around your office and in shared spaces. Whether you jot them on sticky notes or create a fancy …
Quick Tip: Don’t Skimp on Onboarding
When you have ratios that need to be met and a task list that seems to get longer each day, it can be tempting to take some shortcuts with new employees’ orientation. Today’s pro tip? Don’t skimp! The time (and effort) that you put into orientation has a direct impact on employee retention. …and if …
Quick Tip: Take a Break (Everyday)
Even on the days that it seems impossible — actually, especially on those days — take a break. Ideally, take an actual lunch break (check out 7 great reasons why here) but at minimum, take a few minutes to walk outside. The act of physically exiting the building and breathing fresh air can be the …
Quick Tip: Show Families Some Love
Juggling backpacks, diaper bags, traffic, and a busy work schedule means that the morning routine can be hectic and overwhelming for parents — especially during transition times like the back-to-school season. One easy way to show families some love during the morning drop off is to place an unexpected treat at your front desk. A …
Quick Tip: Let Go of What You Can’t Control
Talking about self-care sometimes conjures up images of bubble baths or a fancy latte, but at its heart, it’s really just a reminder to give deliberate time and attention to your own well-being. As the saying goes, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”One solid self-care strategy is to lighten your “mental load” by letting …
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Directors As Leaders 