Principal’s blog turns walls into windows
I was reading an article in the Chicago Tribune today called “Blogging Clicks with Educators” and saw a mention of a principal blogging in Aurora. So I looked up his blog, Banter from Brooks, to see what he was putting up there. It wasn’t inspirational, it wasn’t all that though provoking, but it was simple, straightforward and honest. After reading a few posts, I actually felt like I knew Dave Younce. He uses a very casual voice and there are a few grammatical errors. And to be honest, I’m thrilled to see them. I’d much rather have a few grammar mistakes amongst the almost daily communication, than to have something typed 100% perfectly, but only sent once per month.
This is a principal who is leading by example and from what I can see, the parents truly appreciate it. Last week he posted, “A Day at Brooks“, where he basically took the digital camera on a tour of the school and shared it all with the parents on his blog. Here’s a couple snippets from the comments he received.
I love the day at Brooks, Principal Younce. As working parents we rely on whatever info we can sqeeze out of our kids. When they were younger we couldn’t keep them from sharing their school day. but as they get older they don’t reveal as much…
Mr. Younce, I love it!!! This was a great article and I think you have managed to mention every grade/activity that goes on at Brooks!!! Being a picture lover, I love how you added pics!!! I heard about the new dismissal procedure yesterday from my daughter. She said it went pretty well and was easy!!! Thanks for sharing!
Considering how many administrators are terrified of the word ‘blog’ being uttered on school grounds, its always a treat to see somebody using it to make their school more transparent to the community.
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What a terrific post! I am so glad to see that Dave’s blog was recognized by you. He and I are only a handful of principals actively blogging in the Chicago area, and we have “met” each other recently via email. I think blogging is a great way for principals to share ideas with each other as well as sharing thoughts with the school community. It is a great medium for expressing one’s thoughts about educational leadership, parenting, curriculum and instruction, and other powerful topics. So how do we get other principals to join in the edu-blogosphere?
- Dave Sherman
Dave Sherman
2/1/2007