Gina G. Lunsford

L20291626

Reflections on Competencies 8-9

Based on my experiences in these last eighteen months as a principal intern, and my three years’ experience as a department coordinator, I feel I am proficient in all of these competencies.

Domain 3 Competency 8.31: General Office Administration / Technology

Our district is beginning the process of integrating technology in our district, not only in the classroom, but also in the hands of teachers and administrators.  Our administrators were given an iPad at the beginning of the school year, which is synced with all of the district’s contacts, educational apps, and even an app that allows them to conduct a PDAS evaluation for walk-throughs. From talking to administrators, they are much more satisfied with taking an iPad into the classroom than they taking a laptop. We also have the essential tools such as a fax machine for the front office, printers and scanners so that all staff may use, and a networked phone system. I feel that I am proficient in the domain/competency of General Office Administration/Technology as I have been afforded the use of this same technology this year as department coordinator.

Domain 3 Competency 8.32: School Operations / Policies:

I interviewed our district PIEMS clerk who had over 5+ years of dealing with attendance. She explained that attendance must be taken every day at 10am. This is because each student present represents a dollar amount. For instance, the State of Texas pays districts roughly $20 per day, per student to educate. However, if students require services, such as LEP, Special Education, GT and Bilingual needs, the cost of each student rises dramatically. If the student is not present, then it looks bad on the school (who would have to reimburse the State for the absence of that student.) She went on to explain how that if a child that is out of district is attending our school (with permission), then the other district will have to pay our district the cost of that particular student. Finally, she went on to explain how each campus is required to have a “snapshot” two times a year. This snapshot helps with the funding of the school, and also gives a sense of accountability come standardized test time. I feel that I am proficient in this area based on my experience.

Domain 3 Competency 8.33: Supervision of the Budget

This was not a new process for me, as a teacher, we have been completing requisitions for supplies from budgeted accounts for many years. I didn’t really learn anything new by completing this activity because I already do this twice a year in my current job. I also help other people in the process since it is all done on the computer. I love to help people who are unsure of the process. There are times I have questions, because I do not complete requisitions on a weekly basis. I am able to get help from the principal’s secretary. Sometimes the hardest part is looking for what you need and finding the best price before you complete the requisition. For me, that is the most time consuming part. I usually procrastinate until the deadline before making the requisition for supplies. I know in the future I will continue to perform this activity, which I believe will help me maintain proficiency in this domain/competency.

Domain 3 Competency 8.34: Affiliations and Resources

NAESP Resources include:
-Blogs

-Online bookstore

-Various publications

-Various ways to help improve campus

-Advocacy resources

NASSP Resources include:

-Webinars

-Access to registration for upcoming conferences

-Various resources that cater to various levels of principals (ie: the beginner principal, Assistant Principals, etc.)

I am proficient in this domain/competency.

Domain 3 Competency 8.35: Professional Library

This activity was easy for me to complete as I went through my classes. In order to complete assignments I had to access various materials. I was able to keep a list of all the materials used as well as books that were recommended by others. I didn’t necessarily set out to complete this activity one day; rather as I came across items that I thought would be useful for this I simply added them. I learned that educational leaders have to always be reading materials on various topics, everything from policies to how to be an effective leader. In the future, I will continue updating my list and adding to it as it is an ongoing activity. I would also recommend that any person in a career look into doing this activity as it would benefit anyone who chose to do this. It makes me wonder how many people actually engage in this type activity if it is not required. I consider myself a lifelong learner and am an avid reader, which I believe contribute to my being proficient in this domain/competency.

Domain 3 Competency 9.36: Facility and Maintenance Safety and Security

As an administrator, it is imperative that you have a working knowledge of all of your facilities and trust your maintenance, custodial and administrative staff to take care of the day-to-day issues.  If you can trust to notify you of any assistance they need, this will help maintain the facility.  Safety of the students and staff is imperative, and any issues that affect these groups needs to be addressed immediately.  In addition, development and planning of a crisis management program and practice of safe and secure procedures are mandatory.  These drills are practiced routinely every month to ensure the safety of the school and all students. Again, I have had numerous experiences in dealing with safety and security over the last three years as department coordinator; therefore I believe that I am proficient in this domain/competency.

Domain 3 Competency 9.37: Student Transportation

I was able to observe what bus drivers today do to prepare the bus for their routes, the paperwork that the drivers must have, remembering their routes, looking out for drivers and pedestrians, and counting students that ride the bus. More importantly I got to see the poverty which most of our students are living. I already knew many of our students come from very impoverished homes, but words cannot describe some of the things I witnessed. I now have even more respect than I already had for those whom we entrust our students to for transportation. I will never forget this experience as it has left an imprint on my heart and the utmost respect for our drivers. Because of my other experiences with transportation in addition to my internship experience, I believe that I am proficient in this domain/competency.

Domain 3 Competency 9.38: Food Services

I found the school food service program provides breakfast and a well-balanced lunch in the cafeteria.  The cafeteria staff plans the meals each week trying to meet the dietary needs of the students.  The primary concern is that many students who need a well-balanced meal often do not eat the food.  The staff is working to make the food more appealing to encourage students to eat their meals.  The staff is also responsible for ordering the correct amount of food, staying within budget, and ensuring the facilities are up to code and clean for hygienic purposes. I feel that I am proficient in this domain/competency.