Teacher, Coach or Leader by Corey Gaston

cgaston11 — 2024-04-21 22:23:43 UTC

Think of a teacher, coach or leader who inspires you, or has inspired you in the past. Talk a bit about how they did this.

2024-04-26 21:08:21 UTC

A principal I once had gave me SO many opportunities to try new things and pushed me to get out of my comfort zone. They saw my potential - I honestly don't know if I would have saw it in myself had it not been for that individual.

2024-04-26 21:09:13 UTC

When I became a curriculum coordinator, an 80 year old Australian kindergarten teacher was a huge source of information! She had a wealth of experience and wanted to pass that on. She trained me in reading recovery (unofficially), taught me all about how to teach math. She was still so positive about education after all of her years. She is still alive and travelling the world now - at almost 90!

2024-04-26 21:09:24 UTC

Had a GM at the first restaurant I worked at. I had zero experience and he took me under his wing and showed me the ropes. I felt as though I was seen, my questions heard and that I was able to learn from the best.

2024-04-26 21:09:37 UTC

I was lucky to have several family members who had years of experience in education. They helped guide me during challenging times and continue to give great advice.

2024-04-26 21:09:42 UTC

As I have mentioned, my mentor as a leader was Susan Willis. Smart, stoic and loads of integrity. She had high standards for herself and the people around her, but lead on the principles of equity and fairness.

2024-04-26 21:09:57 UTC

I had a softball coach who believed in my ability more than me and put me in positions to show my strengths even though I shied away from those positions.

Ultimately creating confidence.

2024-04-26 21:10:16 UTC

I have been fortunate to have worked under some very strong administrators. I am most inspired by leaders who TRUST their staff and those who aren't afraid to do whatever it is that they ask of the employees they oversee...if they won't change a lightbulb or clean a toilet too, I'm much less motivated to do it myself!

2024-04-26 21:10:43 UTC

Grant Cavin was an important teacher to be. He made me feel that I could do anything academically in grade 5 and 6, at the time I was having challenges in school. The was always positive and led with kindness. He got to know us as kids rather then students.

2024-04-26 21:10:44 UTC

Allowed mistakes, available for guidance, showed respect and compassion, while pushing everyone forward

2024-04-26 21:10:59 UTC

The current principal I'm working with has had the most meaningful impact on me. He is the most genuine, authentic, and compassionate leader. He knows his core values and sticks to them every day. He's given me confidence to grow and to try new things (like becoming a VP).

2024-04-26 21:11:29 UTC

Been able to work with those that have taught me the value of time. Take time to think, take time to yourself, make time for conversation & use the time you need. It really doesn't have to be a rush. I use those around me to remind myself that it is important to take time to recognize, "is it good" or "is it good enough". There's a difference.

2024-04-26 21:11:38 UTC

A professor I had in university who was outstanding. They inspired me to try new things and push myself. To this day, I still say they were my favorite teacher. This professor also cared about their students and took time to learn about each student

2024-04-26 21:11:44 UTC

A former principal of mine wasn't afraid to tell the hard truths. Despite that, most staff, students and parents thought the world of him (and still do!)

I admired his ability to say what other's wouldn't, even when he knew that the truth needed to be heard.

2024-04-26 21:12:11 UTC

I've had some really great mentors along the way. Many who believed in me and challenged me to be better.

2024-04-26 21:12:29 UTC

For me it was my first principal during my first year as VP at a Catholic school. Sister Stella Chafe was her name and she was not your typical nun. She was innovative, risk taker and was all about the children. Her belief in Catholic Education was unwavering. I was fortunate enough to open up a new school called St. Martha School her order,