Introduction

The way that Bennis compares his Introduction in 1989 with his revised Introduction in 2003 it was interesting to see how things had changed not only with the United States but also globally. Even comparing his insight/introduction in 2003 to 2009 it is clear to see our world is ever changing. The idea of constant change specifically within technology is the point that really resonates with me. "As I write this, there are more than 580 million Internet users worldwide, and usage doubles every 100 days," (Bennis p. xi). I feel in education we are not properly preparing our students for the technological challenges of our world today. I understand that technology comes with a price tag that the majority of school systems can not afford right now, but what cost is this for our students? I understand that the focus of this reading is on leadership and vision, but technology proficiency is a part of my vision for any school that I'm involved with. I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of different schools during my teaching career, and I have found that when it comes to standards and curriculum development California is years ahead of the other educational institutions that I have work in, but where the school seem to be falling flat is technology. During my last long-term substitute position I discovered my students did not know how to open a word document and their typing skills were almost non-existent. This was very disheartening to me. But now I seem to be rambling... I will get back on track with the reading reflection.

Because this class is focused on the idea of leader having, shaping, and sharing their vision on quote from the introduction really stood out to me. "What he or she must have are vision, the ability to rally the other, and integrity. Such leaders also need superb curatorial and coaching skills - and eye for talent, the ability to recognize correct choices, contagious optimism, a gift for bringing out the best in others, the ability to facilitate communication and mediate conflict, a sense of fairness, and, as always, the kind of authenticity and integrity that creates trust." (Bennis p. xix) Sadly, enough reflecting back I do not think that any principal that I have worked under had all of those qualities, they did possess some of them. I do have to say that there are two assistant principals that I have worked with that possess those qualities. I do not know if that was a coincidence or if the principals had an eye for talent and hired someone that would complement their weaknesses. This is a sense balanced out the trust between administration and staff, and everyone knew that the person to go to was the vice principal. Although this quote is short it clearly sums up what qualities an effective leader should possess. The two strongest words that I feel are the most important qualities for a leader are "fairness" and "integrity".