75. What do Principals Really Think?

Every wonder what our principals are actually thinking about? In Episode 75, I am in conversation with high school principal Ingrid Gustavson.

In this episode we discuss the highs and lows of her job, the way she models and cultivates balance in her work, and the pitfalls of trying to "do it all" as either administration or faculty. 

Ingrid describes the importance of teacher time and "working around the edges" of our daily time and reminds us claim time for ourselves because, "there will always be one more paper to grade."

Ingrid also describes how she says teachers have come through Covid, why and how they are frontline workers, and how we rebuild mental health for students and teachers. The key, says Ingrid, is play and her suggestions might surprise you. Enjoy this conversation!

Ingrid joined the Rowland Hall community in summer 2016. For three years before her move, Ingrid served as director of studies at Darrow School on the New York-Massachusetts border overseeing all things academic, from curriculum development and scheduling to faculty and student support. Prior to Darrow, Ingrid worked at three schools in California including, most recently, Sage Hill School in Orange County. Ingrid wore many hats there over 11 years, including dean of faculty and history department chair. She has also taught World History, AP Art History, and French, and coached volleyball and basketball. Ingrid and her family enjoy exploring Salt Lake City and the surrounding areas. They especially love road trips, hiking, birding, and skiing.

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More About Teacher Talk with Chrissy Nichols:

Teacher Talk is the podcast for educators like you who are on the brink of burnout, or are already there. It’s your guide to feeling better about being at school and being in your life. Your host, Chrissy Nichols, is a life coach for teachers. In her weekly episodes, she will give you quick tools, tips, and brain hacks to understand that there is absolutely nothing wrong with you. It’s time to find the joy in teaching again and get back to feeling like the best version of yourself.