Dealing with a Crisis

The first ten minutes of a crisis often determine how a community reacts to the challenge.  What are five or six steps that a school leader might take during this vital time-frame? Communication is a critical part of the aforesaid crisis response.  What characteristics and skills should be considered when choosing a spokesperson for a crisis?  What is the most important ability needed? 

External Communication

·         Very few teachers are prepared to deal with parents, especially those who assume the role of a critic.  As a building principal, what action might you take to help teachers deal effectively with parents on the telephone, at conferences and through email, social media or other communications? 

·         Following a recent Administrative Staff meeting, your superintendent shared her concerns regarding the morale of all district employees.  She cited a general tone of apathy and asked for your help in developing a plan for improving internal communications and morale.  As a school principal, what suggestions and rationale might you provide to her to improve human relations?  Be sure to address internal communications within your response.    

Big Ideas - Communication

      The play write George Bernard Shaw once quipped, “The single biggest problem with communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” As a school leader how could you utilize knowledge of the 5 elements of communication and the Lionberger study to enhance communication and acceptance of ideas among staff members?