Paul Erickson is a an elementary school principal at Buhler Schools in Hutchinson, KS. Paul is in his eighth year as a principal and in his 13th year in education. A quote that summarizes Paul’s philosophy on education and school leadership: “A school’s success starts and ends with culture and every kid needs an adult who is irrationally crazy about him/her.” Paul feels honored to chat with listeners about his leadership journey as well as connect with you as fellow PLNers!

 

Paul has a wife and four year old daughter, he’s passionate about sports, loves Stephen King, and is a retired competitive eater (he gives some competitive eating tips) (1:55)

From as far back as he can remember, Paul wanted to be an educator, in large part because of the respect he had for some influential teachers in his own life (5:18)

Why Paul made the decision to move into school leadership (7:05)

The challenges of becoming the principal at the school where you’ve been teaching (10:38)

Paul spent days preparing for his assembly presentation on the first day of his first year as a principal, and as soon as the speech ended, it hit him – “Now what?” (12:40)

Using the “tight/loose” orientation for time management and getting things done (15:38)

The importance of scheduling time to reflect on your job and your school (17:40)

Paul talks about writing regularly at his blog, Lead Visibly (19:00)

Paul says his best moments are seeing the his students and staff members become the best they can be (25:28)

You don’t have to lose your connection to students when you move into administration (28:18)

Lead like you taught (29:00)

The vital importance of creating a great school culture (34:17)

Paul’s favorite books for education leaders (34:49)

You have to show the students and the teachers that you love them (36:11)

If Paul had a time machine, and could back and give himself advice when he was first starting out in school administration, this is the advice he would give his younger self (40:00)

 

Books mentioned in this episode

Gardening in the Minefield: A Survival Guide for School Administrators by Laurel Schmidt

Hacking Leadership: 10 Ways Great Leaders Inspire Learning That Teachers, Students, and Parents Love by Joe Sanfelippo and Tony Sinanis

 

Connect with Paul Erickson

@PrincipalPaul

Lead Visibly

 

 

About EducatorsLead:

Educators Lead is a podcast created to help launch educators into the next level of leadership. This show is for you if you are interested in educational leadership as an assistant principal, principal, superintendent, teacher or someone who hopes to be a school leader one day. Educators Lead offers inspiration and practical advice to help you lead more effectively. Jay Willis interviews school leaders three days a week to discuss why and when these educators made the decision to move into school leadership, challenges along the journey, and stories that made it all worthwhile. Educators Lead is a great resource for any educator looking to make a greater impact.

Educate. Inspire. Lead.

http://www.educatorslead.com