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00:00:01 --> 00:00:06 Hi, I'm Dr. Lisa Hill, a longtime educator of nearly 40 years as a teacher,
00:00:06 --> 00:00:08 counselor, professor, and vice principal.
00:00:08 --> 00:00:12 And I've seen just about everything public schools can throw at you.
00:00:12 --> 00:00:17 And now I'm sharing my tales on my comedy podcast, Vice Principal Unofficed.
00:00:17 --> 00:00:21 It's where school leadership meets laugh out loud stories from underwear required
00:00:21 --> 00:00:23 parent teacher conferences.
00:00:23 --> 00:00:27 Yes, really. To staff lounge confessions and more. You won't believe.
00:00:27 --> 00:00:30 I'm telling it all with humor and a whole lot of heart.
00:00:30 --> 00:00:35 I also tackle the serious stuff too, like what schools really need to change
00:00:35 --> 00:00:38 and those behind-the-scenes moments no one talks about.
00:00:38 --> 00:00:41 So if you're ready to laugh, learn, and maybe even cry a little,
00:00:41 --> 00:00:46 but mostly laugh, join me and my 90-year-old mom, my unofficial co-host,
00:00:46 --> 00:00:48 on Vice Principal Unofficed.
00:00:48 --> 00:00:53 New episodes drop bi-weekly on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get
00:00:53 --> 00:00:58 your podcast fix. Trust me, this is one detention you'll actually look forward to.
00:00:59 --> 00:01:05 Welcome to your Morning Boost, your daily leadership advice to help you lead your school community.
00:01:05 --> 00:01:09 Brought to you by AWB Education and sponsored by Grundmeyer Leader Services,
00:01:09 --> 00:01:14 where together we are transforming education, one leader at a time.
00:01:14 --> 00:01:16 Happy Friday the 13th, everyone.
00:01:16 --> 00:01:21 Don't trip on any black cats today. And consider yourself lucky most schools
00:01:21 --> 00:01:22 don't have kids in session.
00:01:23 --> 00:01:28 Although, I've heard stories that full moons can make for an interesting student population.
00:01:29 --> 00:01:32 I know, we all have a few tales to tell.
00:01:32 --> 00:01:37 But again, happy Friday. I'm Jess Hanson, and it's been an absolute blast joining
00:01:37 --> 00:01:41 you each day this week as a new contributor with AWB Education.
00:01:42 --> 00:01:47 Today, as we wrap up the week, our focus shifts to a critical group who often
00:01:47 --> 00:01:49 keep our schools running smoothly through the summer months.
00:01:50 --> 00:01:52 Our amazing support staff.
00:01:52 --> 00:01:57 We're talking about our dedicated secretaries, custodians, and all the other
00:01:57 --> 00:02:02 vital team members who transition from managing daily school life to preparing
00:02:02 --> 00:02:04 for the next academic year.
00:02:04 --> 00:02:09 They often work tirelessly behind the scenes, and setting them up for success
00:02:09 --> 00:02:13 during the summer is paramount to a smooth start in the fall.
00:02:13 --> 00:02:18 We're going to explore how to best support them, ensure they have the resources
00:02:18 --> 00:02:22 and clarity they need, and recognize their invaluable contributions.
00:02:27 --> 00:02:32 Let's talk about how to set your support staff up for a successful and productive summer.
00:02:32 --> 00:02:36 First, clearly define summer responsibilities and priorities.
00:02:36 --> 00:02:39 Don't assume everyone knows what needs to be done.
00:02:40 --> 00:02:45 Hold a meeting to outline key summer projects, expectations, and deadlines.
00:02:46 --> 00:02:50 For custodians, this could mean clearly outlining cleaning schedules,
00:02:51 --> 00:02:54 major repair projects, and inventory needs.
00:02:54 --> 00:03:00 For secretaries, detail enrollment tasks, record-keeping, and communication protocols.
00:03:00 --> 00:03:07 A clear summer plan once prevented so much confusion and rework for my team. It was a game-changer.
00:03:08 --> 00:03:12 Next, ensure they have necessary resources and training.
00:03:12 --> 00:03:18 Make sure they have the tools, supplies, and any necessary training to complete
00:03:18 --> 00:03:19 their summer tasks effectively.
00:03:20 --> 00:03:24 If new software is being implemented, provide training well in advance.
00:03:25 --> 00:03:28 Make sure cleaning supplies are fully stocked for custodians.
00:03:29 --> 00:03:34 The principle of equipping the teen is vital. As leadership expert Simon Sinek
00:03:34 --> 00:03:38 suggests, leaders are not responsible for the results.
00:03:38 --> 00:03:42 They are responsible for the people who are responsible for the results.
00:03:43 --> 00:03:48 Establish clear communication channels. How will they communicate with you and with each other?
00:03:49 --> 00:03:54 Who is the point person for questions or emergencies? You might set up a dedicated
00:03:54 --> 00:03:58 group chat or check-in schedule and designate a single administrator as the
00:03:58 --> 00:04:01 primary contact for summer operations.
00:04:02 --> 00:04:07 Recognize their contributions. Summer work can often feel thankless without
00:04:07 --> 00:04:09 the daily presence of students and teachers.
00:04:10 --> 00:04:14 Make a conscious effort to acknowledge and appreciate their hard work.
00:04:14 --> 00:04:18 You could send a weekly email expressing appreciation.
00:04:18 --> 00:04:22 Bring in coffee or treats, or simply pop by their office to say thanks.
00:04:23 --> 00:04:28 A simple act of appreciation, like bringing in donuts on a hot summer morning,
00:04:28 --> 00:04:31 once boosted our summer morale significantly.
00:04:31 --> 00:04:36 Summer can sometimes feel isolating or just as busy as the regular school year.
00:04:37 --> 00:04:41 Encourage breaks, monitor workloads, and be flexible where possible.
00:04:42 --> 00:04:47 Encourage staff to take their own vacation time and ensure they don't feel pressured
00:04:47 --> 00:04:48 to work excessive hours.
00:04:51 --> 00:04:57 So to wrap up this week, remember that supporting your summer staff means clearly
00:04:57 --> 00:05:01 defining responsibilities, providing resources and training,
00:05:02 --> 00:05:03 establishing communication channels,
00:05:04 --> 00:05:09 recognizing their invaluable contributions, and supporting their overall well-being.
00:05:09 --> 00:05:14 These individuals are the backbone of your school's seamless operation.
00:05:15 --> 00:05:18 Especially during the quiet hum of summer. Think about it.
00:05:19 --> 00:05:23 They're the silent heroes making sure the building is spotless,
00:05:23 --> 00:05:28 records are organized, and everything is ready for that first bell in August.
00:05:29 --> 00:05:34 A little foresight and appreciation for their summer efforts go a long way in
00:05:34 --> 00:05:39 ensuring a smooth transition back to the hustle and bustle of the school year.
00:05:39 --> 00:05:45 They're preparing the stage for all of us, and that deserves our full support and gratitude.
00:05:46 --> 00:05:51 This has been such a blast getting to share these insights with you this week
00:05:51 --> 00:05:55 and I truly hope everyone has enjoyed it as much as I have.
00:05:55 --> 00:06:00 I'm just getting started on this journey of sharing and learning and I'm really
00:06:00 --> 00:06:03 looking forward to more opportunities in the future.
00:06:03 --> 00:06:08 If anyone wants to connect with me, please feel free to reach out to the incredible
00:06:08 --> 00:06:13 crew at AWB and they'll be happy to get you my contact information.
00:06:13 --> 00:06:17 Have an awesome Friday and an even better weekend.
00:06:17 --> 00:06:22 Thanks for listening, and we'll be back again with more episodes next week.
00:06:22 --> 00:06:27 You have been listening to Your Morning Boost by AWB Education in partnership
00:06:27 --> 00:06:28 with Grundmeyer Leader Services.
00:06:29 --> 00:06:33 You can find out more about our services by clicking on the links in the description.
00:06:34 --> 00:06:38 Remember, you are doing this vital job that only a few can do.
00:06:38 --> 00:06:42 So until next time, thank you for your service to your community.