Blogging as a Leadership Tool

Over the years I have observed my campus administrators face challenges from the monumental to the mundane:  gang affiliations to Gameboys, police to PTA, TAKS scores to teachers' luncheons.  It seems that one primary thread that weaves through all of these moments is the value of effective, accessible communication with stakeholders.  A typical suburban school community holds dozens of staff, hundreds of students and families, and thousands of community members, all clamoring for time, for answers, for a voice.  A blog can offer one solution to this challenge of access.  Blogging opens up dialogue on school issues,  creates a resource for parents, and connects the various parts of the school community through a common set of information.  It is available 24 hours a day from any location with Internet access, which meets the needs of families with non-traditional scheduling constraints.  Finally, it gives an educational leader a tool to set the climate and vision of the school.  A principal can use blogging to promote the strategic goals of a campus, to address common concerns, and to promote the school to the community.  A blog can act as a vital exchange of  information between an administrator and the public.