I will always be a principal-teacher: principals comment on the possible removal of administrators from the ATA [Every Child Learns. Every Child Succeeds]

• Published in: A T A news 2003-10, Vol.38 (5)
• Main Authors: Leahy, David, Richardson, Karen, Finkbeiner, George, Knudslien-Stock, Mona, Hetherington, Randy, Koch, Dolaine, Arnold, Dawn, Zahara, Bob, Black, Jim
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Education reform; Labor unions; Memberships; Principals; Teachers
• ISSN: 0001-267X

"This recommendation fails to account for the diversity found in Alberta schools. The Commission can perhaps envision the proposal working in a large urban school with 1,000-plus students and full-time administrators, but show me how it would work in rural Alberta. My past experience includes 12 years as the principal of a small rural school (full-time teacher with no administrative time). While the words 'Educational Executive' might look nice on the office door, it would not reflect reality." "[Recommendation 78] would leave administrators extremely vulnerable to the notions and whims of the community and the government. If a principal disagreed with a government directive or had problems with a board decision, what would provide any job security if he or she spoke out? Administrators, when they are part of the ATA, have a strong organization to advise and support them." "After reading recommendation 78, my opinion is that it is a bad idea! I don't a see a logical plan here. Not recognizing that principals are first and foremost teachers could place principals in a potentially adversarial role with their colleagues. To what purpose? As a principal, I think it is much easier to improve teaching practice by working with a colleague than by sitting across a table from a teacher and his shop steward."