October 17

Going through the process is very beneficial. I have never sat on a negotiating team and can't say that I would find it enjoyable. However you can certainly see how one's emotions could overcome logic when you are dealing with something you are truly passionate about such as salary and working conditions. In any situation when there are "sides" to the story - you have to take a step back and try and see where the other side is coming from. It is hard to be patient through the process,and I can't imagine sitting in on a negotiating team for hours. It was so sad to hear about the superintendent. Being a principal is sometimes a very lonely job, and you were right about the support getting less as you go on up through the ranks. Even principals in a district are often competitive and maybe some of your best allies are those who are outside of your own district. It is important to find support in any job that you do. Teachers have the support of each other and the friendships they form in the district. I am not always sure that principals or superintendents have that.