Proverb’s Principles for Principals

When I made the move from teaching into administration, I felt like the visually impaired man in a large department store. He went to the middle of the store, grabbed his Seeing Eye dog by the tail, and started to swing him in large circles overhead. Several clerks rushed to him, saying, “Sir, may we help you?” His reply, “Nope, just looking.” I, too, began to look for ideas. The following pages suggest many ideas that have been selected from a biblical foundation from the book of Proverbs. About the Book For the past several years, it has been my privilege to serve in education, most of which have been in administration. I have always enjoyed the wonderful book of Proverbs and have tried to apply many of its principles to my life. Down through the years, it has been interesting to write down some ideas as to how many of these principles have applied to my administrative responsibilities as a principal. The book of Proverbs is extremely practical, and its concepts can be applied to both public and private (Christian) educators. I have attempted to present the biblical concept, to concisely expand upon it, and to leave the reader with the thought of practical application. I certainly do not pretend to have all the answers toward improving our educational systems. I have often failed at communication, sometimes saying far too much and other times not saying enough. I have assumed others knew my expectations only to find that my directions were not clearly understood. Several of the principles deal with effective communication. I have been privileged to have been blessed with many mentors. Dr. Anthony Fortosis often emphasized this verse referring to David, “So he fed them according to the integrity of his heart and guided them by the skillfulness of his hands” (Psalm 98:72). May it be so for you.