The Word ‘Supervision’ Shouldn’t Get a Bad Rap. Here’s Why

Changing the Power Narrative

Power. Why do we only feel comfy using this word at the gym or bopping to that classic Snap! tune about power? For a lot of us, it’s because the word has developed some seriously negative vibes. And where did this negativity come from? You guessed it, our relationships in the workplace!

Think about it: our boss, the one supervising our every move, holds the keys to our employment. That’s some pretty hefty weight. This “power over” dynamic often leads to feelings of anxiety and dread. It’s no wonder someone like a veteran teacher might say, “When the principal walks into my classroom, it feels like I’m being graded. If I don’t meet expectations, there are real consequences.”

Getting Real About Power Dynamics

As school leaders, ignoring or downplaying our power can result in its harmful use. News flash: having power isn’t evil; how we choose to use it can make all the difference. The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. put it bluntly when he said power is defined as “the ability to achieve purpose and effect change.” Embracing this mindset shifts our thinking from “power over” to “power with,” “power to,” and “power within.” It’s time we dive into these concepts and explore how they can reshape our environments.

Motivating teachers through “power over” rarely works. Instead, principals need to create spaces where everyone can use their power to achieve educational goals. The primary aim of schools should be student learning. Naturally, teachers—who work closely with students—need to feel empowered. We’ve gotta support teachers in recognizing this power, something that starts with rethinking supervision practices.

Redefining Supervision

Supervision should be a collaborative experience where the goal is to support teachers and ultimately help their students succeed. Instead of grading performance—a “power over” approach—supervision can be an opportunity for leaders to collaborate and learn with teachers (“power with”). Observations should seize the moment for meaningful discussions that clarify classroom challenges.

When we shift our focus onto empowering teachers—what we like to call “power within”—we start developing a culture where teachers can examine their practices, collaborate to solve problems, and constantly refine their teaching methods. This level of power grows through continuous feedback that inspires self-reflection among educators. Conversely, treating supervision like a mundane compliance check can kill this vibe.

What Is Differentiated Supervision?

Differentiated supervision is all about recognizing that every teacher is unique. Their strengths, challenges, and needs might not fit into a one-size-fits-all model. By tailoring supervision to meet individual and team needs, we can advance the entire school together!

This model prioritizes meaningful feedback as the centerpiece of teacher development. It triggers discussions about what students need to excel. Instead of generic evaluations that barely skim the surface, differentiated supervision uses feedback tools to mine for insights about each teacher’s progress. This fosters genuine dialogue about student success, while also nurturing teachers’ power within.

Choosing the Right Methods

Let’s break it down further. Differentiated supervision involves various methods to support teachers. Leaders should explore different supervisory practices—be it casual walk-throughs or implementation studies—to truly understand what’s working for both students and educators. This is about developing a diagnostic stance on teaching dynamics.

Team meetings should feel like a collective rallying cry! They’re essential for cultivating that “power with” vibe, an ingredient necessary for teacher collaboration and growth. Supervision doesn’t have to feel like a chore. When teachers feel supported, they can draw on each other’s strengths, resulting in collective teacher efficacy that benefits everyone.

Benefits of an Empowering Supervision Model

Instead of dread or boredom, effective supervision fosters teacher agency and self-efficacy. When we embrace differentiated supervision, we move past the “power over” mentality and lean into a model that promotes “power with,” “power to,” and “power within.” Talk about a win-win!

Think of it this way: by embracing the genuine power we hold, we pave the way for a cultural shift and enhanced achievement within our schools. That’s worth shouting about! Imagine a school atmosphere where your teachers get fired up about their agency, echoing that feel-good anthem, “I’ve got the power!”

Looking Ahead

In a world full of uncertainty, our younger generations are stepping up as changemakers. They’re conscious of the world’s precarious state. Experts suggest the next few decades will be crucial for our civilization. If we want a thriving future, we need to involve all the kids out there—they’ve got the energy, the ideas, and the potential to lead the way.

Here are six solid reasons why empowering young people is crucial:

1. Young People Have the Most at Stake

Enrollment in our programs shows that at least 65% of youth feel bored or alienated at school. This disconnection contributes to anxiety and stress. They’re legit worried about the future! Plus, these young folks are looking at a long life ahead. Why would we leave them out of our plans moving forward?

2. Instinct to Take Action

Kids today live in a whirlwind of technology, pandemics, and uncertainty. Now more than ever, they feel an instinct to act. Unfortunately, many systems still overlook their insights. When given the chance, they can offer groundbreaking ideas for change!

3. Directional Solutions Are Emerging

Recent research has unveiled a treasure trove of ideas for educational reform. The key? Taking them from the ground up. We can devise awesome futures if we connect good ideas with courageous practitioners in schools. So, let’s get serious about changing the narrative!

4. Too Many Children Are Feeling Lost

We can’t ignore how many kids are struggling with anxiety, violence, and feeling disconnected. We need cultural shifts that foster belonging and agency. Working together, students can redefine what it means to feel “lost” and get on the path to brighter futures.

5. Investing in Change

The race between technology and education has changed, and it’s time we embrace that. If we empower students as changemakers armed with tech skills, they could drive solutions that benefit society. Why not invest in their potential? The rewards are endless.

6. Better Futures Make Life Worth Living

There’s no limit to where creative thinking can take us. Kids have an innate ability to dream big! Listening to their voices can unlock unimaginable paths for a flourishing future. Let’s ensure we partner closely with them, validating their ideas and fostering hope for all!

Wrapping It Up

So, let’s kick the outdated perceptions of supervision to the curb! By embracing differentiated models of support, we can cultivate a sense of belonging, agency, and empowerment. Our kids, teachers, and schools will thrive, creating a vibrant community unafraid to step up as changemakers. Let’s be the ones who yell “I’ve got the power!” With the right mindset, the future looks bright!