“Likely the employee who most significantly impacts the superintendent’s performance is the Executive Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent (superintendent’s secretary). A good one can broaden the scope and quality of your work, and alternatively a bad one can severely hinder your progress.”

From “The Superintendent-Administrative Assistant Team: Enhancing Scope and Quality, or Hindering Progress?” by Howard C. Carlson, superintendent, Wickenburg Unified School District, Wickenburg, Ariz., on his blog Accelerated Leadership Wisdom

“There are days or weeks when I feel so busy, so stressed, as if there just isn’t enough time to get everything done. Then I find myself spending a weekend day comatose on my couch, unable to do more than stare at a bad TV show and a game on my iPad.”

From “How You Choose to Spend Your Time” by Amy Illingworth, assistant superintendent of educational services, Encinitas Union High School District, Encinitas, Calif., on her blog Reflections on Leadership and Learning

“There is a natural ‘tension’ that exists in school organizations between innovation and compliance. At all levels of the organization, there is an awareness that we must pivot to prepare students for their future. At the same time, we are held to state and federal compliance along with accountability.”

From “Creating a Culture of Continuous Improvement” by Michael McCormick, superintendent, Val Verde Unified School District, Perris, Calif., on his k12sharing.org blog

“To me, few things demonstrate strong social and emotional learning skills as a hug. The research shows that hugs reduce stress, boost heart health, reduce fears and pain, and improve communications.”

From “Take the ‘Be Like the Congressman Challenge.’ Love (and Hug) like John Lewis!” by Meria Carstarphen, superintendent, Atlanta Public Schools, Atlanta, Ga., on her blog ATLsuper

Read the full postings of these and other members’ blogs at www.aasa.org/SAblogs.aspx.

FLASHBACK MAY 2010

What benefits and costs emanate from school district consolidation, according to Syracuse University researchers. … The entanglement of school sports teams in school merger deliberations. … Co-authors of the book Hollowing Out the Middle discussed reimagining education in small towns. … Board-Savvy Superintendent on supermajority votes facing school boards. … Guest columns were titled “The Seven Deadly Sins of Making Demands” and “Making Time to Think.” … Letters to the editor about our coverage of balanced scorecards, incentive-based compensation and age-friendly school environments for staff. … Mark Bielang titled his AASA President’s Corner “Join Me in the River.” … Advertisers included Herff Jones, Aflac and the Tobacco Control Program.