Written by: Melinda Villarreal M.Ed.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of meeting and working alongside strong, passionate, and inspiring educational leaders who have influenced my growth. Today, I can proudly say that it’s truly an honor to be in a leadership role within education, and I am committed to continuing to learn and grow so that I can support and inspire others along the way.
As I have navigated through my leadership roles, I experienced defining moments in my career that allowed me to see the importance of your team feeling like they are being heard and that they have a voice. It shows your team that you are paying attention to their concerns or suggestions, and it allows them to feel empowered to collaborate. The power of following up is transformational, make sure to circle back to that question they had for you and if you don’t have a concrete answer for them, guide them in the right direction. They will appreciate you taking the time to acknowledge them and it demonstrates your character as a leader.
My philosophy in leadership isn’t defined by the titles, power, or authority that leadership is associated with. It’s primarily about the people you work with and the difference you make in their lives. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that the best teams are built on trust, respect, and recognition. As a leader, it’s all about being present, showing up for your team, and guiding them through both the tough times and the wins. When you lead with care, honesty, and appreciation, you build a culture that brings out the best in everyone. It’s the human aspect in a leader that builds mutual respect. It’s about having a balance of being a strong leader that will hold the team to expectations and commitment."
One piece of advice I always share with aspiring leaders is this: leadership isn’t about being above your team, it’s about being part of it and working together toward success. A big part of being a great leader is really getting to know your team members. Take the time to understand them personally, what motivates them, and how you can help them reach their full potential. And don’t forget to show some praise and appreciation! A simple thank you card or a certificate can make a huge difference. Not every celebration needs to be a grand one, take for instance a handwritten note, it’s a meaningful gesture. Lastly, don’t forget the impact of team building! Every so often plan a team building activity away from your normal routine, you’ll notice the shift in morale. Melinda Villarreal M.Ed.
IDEA Public Schools
Assistant Principal of Operations
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