It’s so gratifying when you had a student with whom you were close, they graduate, and then years later you learn that they’ve achieved much. Mo Ross is a marvelous example of this phenomenon. In college, Mo was an integral member of Otterbein University’s 2002 National Division Three Championship Basketball Team. I was still keeping tabs on Mo in 2002 and I was impressed with this lofty accomplishment.

Big Mo is the good-looking #40 in the back row.

But then, I lost track of him. Certainly not on purpose, but I’ve taught over ten thousand kids in my career. It’s hard to follow them all. I reconnected with Mo this past fall due to a tragedy. I coached Mo in Freshman Football many years ago. His best friend, Randy Russell, was also on my team. Randy passed away this past year and Mo and I talked frequently in the wake of this awful development.

I was thrilled to learn that Mo had become an educator. In fact, Mo had became a principal. He’s the perfect blend of ability, disposition, and vision. As you listen to this talented young man, you’ll spot his leadership skills immediately. Those skills were evident to his teammates and me. He guided our freshman football team as the quarterback. His skills are now evident to his teaching staff. His common sense approach and calm supportive demeanor are major assets.

Principal at Wyandot Run Elementary in Powell, Ohio

This podcast is in need of more administrative perspectives. I frequently interview teachers and students. An administrator can describe student engagement from the objective perch of the classroom evaluation. This episode will give the listener a behind the curtain peak at exactly what’s going through an administrator’s mind as he watches you matriculate through your lesson.

Episode Template

The Problem:

Teachers are not sure how to improve their next evaluation.

The Solution:

Be proactive with your principal.

What you can do Tomorrow:

• Do a self-evaluation.
• Inform your principal your verdict.
• Ask her for advice and resources to improve.
• Create a great lesson hook, so when your principal comes in she’ll see highly engaged student body language.

Your principal can help you grow as an educator. Your principal should be willing to help you grow. Utilize them. Your next evaluation could be your best.

Listen to “115-Principal Mo Ross Describes what he’s Looking for in your Next Evaluation” on Spreaker.