The Leadership Dilemma

1
The Leadership Dilemma

• Dr. Gregory L. Cantrell
• June 16, 2009

2
Leadership Truths

• Leadership is situational and varies with
  individuals and events
• There is no single way to prepare leaders or
  prepare for leadership
• A leader is someone who has followers
• Leadership has ethical implications
• The study of historical figures helps us to
  understand leadership

3
Leadership issues for the 21st century

• Decreasing financial support for public education
• Increasing demand for accountability
• Increasing expectations
• Increasing conflict
• Increasing social challenges
• Teacher quality issues
• Decreasing number of qualified applicants for
  Administrative positions

4
Leaders must be able to

• Listen effectively, understanding both content
  and emotions
• Validate the accuracy of the information received
• Speak frankly and clearly and speak directly to
  the issue
• Be positive about life, self, and ones work

5
Leaders must be able to

• Keep current, synthesize knowledge and utilize
  research
• Self-motivate and be able to inspire colleagues
• Try new ideas, take risks and encourage others to
  do so
• Articulate purpose, establish a vision and
  inspire confidence in schools

6
Leadership strategies for these challenging
times

• Get our of the office and circulate with your
  associates
• Build strong alliances
• Persuade rather than coerce
• Subscribe to honesty and integrity
• Never act out of vengeance or spite

7
Leadership strategies for these challenging
times

• Have the courage to handle unjust criticism
• Be a master of Paradox
• Be decisive
• Lead by example
• Establish goals

8
Leadership strategies for these challenging
times

• Be results oriented
• Choose as your chief subordinates people who
  crave responsibility and take risks
• Encourage innovation
• Master the art of public speaking
• Preach a vision and continually re-affirm it

Donald T. Phillips, Lincoln on Leadership, 1992
9
Closing thoughts
10
Dr. Gregory L. Cantrell Associate Superintendent

• Spartanburg School District Six
• 1390 Cavalier Way
• Roebuck, South Carolina 29376
• 864-576-4212
• cantregl_at_spart6.org