Matt


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'Session 1 Reflection'  **//How has the last 18 months in the Concordia Graduate Program impacted your work as an educator?// **The past 18 months in the Concordia Graduate Program has opened many enriching experiences. It has forced me to look at education initiatives in a new light, an administrative perspective. I have been able to assume the role of principal in the absence of my administrator and practice what I am learning in the classes. I have also been able to facilitate administrative teams in which I have been able to use what I have learned while interacting with parents, teachers, and students. I see the school governance as having four basic legs: social aspect, political aspect, legal aspect, and financial aspect. These legs provide the framework within which a school runs and they overlap in their relationships. I now understand these areas, their overlap and priority, and how they impact the life of a school. I have also been able to reflect on how far I have come and realize the need for continued growth ahead as a future principal. Most important, these experiences have revealed my true passion and love for educational administration. I have learned with absolute certainty that administration is where I belong. **//How have you grown personally and professionally?// **Personally I have grown immensely as an educator, a parent, and a husband. Many of the courses expanded my knowledge and skill base, allowed me to put this knowledge and these skills into practice, and gave me a deeper appreciation for school governance. This personal growth improved my professional skills and also strengthened my character. This growth improves my educational foundation and allows me to look with greater clarity at all aspects of education that affect my students, children, family, staff, and community. I feel completely prepared for and am ready for my move into administrative leadership. I hope to put what I have learned into practice through role playing, debates, or hands on activities. I also hope to work with my colleges to work through real world administrative challenges. I also hope to encounter new experiences and challenges that allow me to grow personally and professionally.
 * //What are 3 major criticisms from the Concordia Graduate Program? //**
 * 1)  Lack of consistency between some courses/ instructors.
 * 2) Some courses could be more practical. Use new knowledge in real life scenarios.
 * 3) The lack of interaction/ input/ feedback from other students while taking online classes.
 * //What do you hope to get from this class? // **