Pillar 2:  A non-dictatorial approach is always best

The best leadership establishes an environment in which, paraphrasing Montessori, expected outcomes occur spontaneously. Technology should never be forced on teachers; its use should never come as a mandate from on high. Teachers, unfortunately, are no different than other professionals when it comes to sabotaging systems that they do not like and do not want.

The best leadership therefore enables teachers to become the best that they can be through consultation, collaboration, communication, support, respect, and encouragement. The best leadership must also work to supply and maintain an "appropriate environment" that will function as fertile ground for educationally sound outcomes, as mentioned in Pillar 1.

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© Bernie Poole, 1996-2008, All rights reserved / poole@pitt.edu / (814) 269-2923 / Revised July 3, 2008