Question: Principal Problems!
I am having significant difficulty with my principal. She is new to our school this year and we had some trouble finding our way in the beginning as I was used to "the way we have always done it." But I have worked very hard to learn her personality, and to be respectful of her new guidelines. I have sometimes made mistakes, but for the most part we have a great PTA who does a lot of really wonderful things for our school. I really believed that as the year went on, the principal would see what an asset we are to her and the school and would be more supportive. And in some ways, she is. But she seems to have an issue with me personally. She is very professional and would never admit that, but every time I do anything slightly differently from how she wants it done, I get a polite but condescending email correcting me or reprimanding me. I am beginning to feel that her problem with me affects the way that she responds to our PTA in general and am starting to wonder if I should resign. I have tried to address the problem with her directly, but she denies there is a problem. Help!!
Asked by Anonymous
Answers:
Community Advice
CaseyReynolds writes:I would set up a meeting with her and let her know that you are considering next year and would like to talk with her about this year and the relationship between you and her and the board and her.
Community Advice
moma03 writes:It seems to me that the principal feels threatened by you and is taking her insecurities out on you as she views you as a threat. Control is another area she is trying to keep a firm grip on and while I understand and respect that, she is going about this the wrong way. I suggest that you write an outline of how you wish things to run, a plan for the balance of the year and an outline of next year programs, events and how you would like to handle "issues" before they become obstacles. Sometimes principals and other managerial types are so used to dealing with subordinates that they do not handle peers the proper way. Sounds like her communication skills need some work. Once you explain to her that you are there to work with her and not against and that you have been and are willing to make changes through open communication, and you give her an opportunity to provide feedback and input and she sees you as an equal, a partner and not a threat, things will be much better. Good luck
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