Post 5, Chapter 4: Competence
This particular chapter on competence helped me to realize that even school
administrators can feel incompetent at times when placed in a difficult situation, especially
when they are unsure of how to proceed or what appropriate action should be taken. Hensley
shared an example of an employee who excelled at his occupation while utilizing specific
techniques. These techniques can definitely be applied to the educational field as well. As
school leaders, it is our job to not only be involved in every important aspect of the campus,
but to also listen and observe what is occurring among teachers, students, and staff. Developing
a positive professional relationship with a trustworthy colleague is also very crucial when
guidance is required in certain situations regarding students and teachers. As Hensley states, as
school administrators, we cannot expect ourselves to be perfect in every area. We need to
understand that mistakes are inevitable; but most importantly, that we are able to learn from them
and they can help us determine how to handle the situation in a more effective way in the future.
Hensley’s discussion on using the “I don’t know” defense really helped me to reflect on
how using that excuse can make you seem unreliable to your staff. At times as school leaders,
we are going to encounter situations or questions when we honestly do not know the answer.
However, by having a clear understanding of what a teacher may need, obtaining all of the
necessary information, then using it to make a decision is how you can always reply to a teacher,
“I don’t know the answer yet, but I will find out and inform you soon!”
Lastly, it is important that educational leaders surround themselves with positive mentors
who can provide guidance and direction when the need arises. Leaders need to establish and
maintain strong professional relationships with other leaders to ensure their confidence in
handling difficult situations. This is necessary due to the fact that, as Hensley states, we tend to
be more influenced by the negative perceptions of others more than the positive ones.
