Thrown to the deep end on her 1st day as principal

Christine Tudela Masga was thrown headfirst into her job as principal of Hopwood Jr. High School. On her first day she had to deal with two students who broke bones. Now, two years later, she continues to strive to improve her school of 1,140 students. Here she answers some questions.

Answer:[/B] I am a graduate from our very own School of Education, NMC. I did my student teaching here at Hopwood in Language Arts (Writing & Reading) in 2001. Since my graduation in December 2002 I was hired and taught Language Arts. In the next years, I was the Reading Resource and LA Chair in charge of 12-14 LA teachers, data and assessment for over 1,150 plus students. In December ’06, I was appointed Acting Principal. Through my employment with PSS I have obtained my master’s [degree] and am working to further educate myself.

A:[/B] Being an administrator alone can have many typical “normal” hectic days. For me, being a middle school administrator can never anticipate a “normal” day. Just a reflection on my first day on the job… It was Friday…. After staying late Thursday to prepare my office and clearing out my old classroom. I was exhausted but excited for the next day. I wore a black set outfit with heels. In the morning, a boy slipped and broke his arm… I witnessed his bone sticking out. I called 911 with my cell. In the afternoon, I had a girl break her hip near the PE Field area… running as fast I could toward the other side of campus holding a radio (not knowing the codes)… I immediately called 911. In one day, it was a full day with concerns and decisions to make.

My typical day would be staying on my toes to address my staff, parents, students, and community concerns. Office work dealing with reports and documents can take up most of my time but getting the chance to be with our teachers and students in and out of the classroom setting is the most rewarding feeling.

A:[/B] The best thing about being a principal is the ability to work with people who have the same goals as far as making our educational system efficient and effective and run in a safe and orderly manner. I enjoy meeting positive people who are proactive and willing to help make Hopwood Jr. High School aim high excellence. I love to see success in student and personnel achievements.

A:[/B] The hardest thing about being a principal is facing all the challenges and making positive outcomes with diverse people that come in our path. I feel that dealing with a variety of personalities can be hard but very blissful when a common understanding is made and the ongoing effort towards our common goal is feasible.

A:[/B] For the rest of the year, several goals I have are as follows: increase parental involvement, increase student data, aim high on student instructional delivery, improve professional development, improve our technology for our students and staff, and expand our cafeteria. I wish to offer more to our students and expand the horizon to learning more critical thinking and career exploration related curriculum.