from the desk of the executive director


An Environment for Success Michael George, Executive Director


Dear Administrator,


Throughout a typical week, you probably navigate between the roles of leader, manager, facilitator, team member, director, teacher and learner. All are challenging and important roles. An effective administrator fulfills all of these roles and more.


Michael George is executive director at the Wisconsin Center for Music Education.


Email: mgeorge@ wsmamusic.org


However, your most essential goal remains the same: An effective administrator creates an environment in which other people can be successful. In the case of the school administrator, the “other people” include school staff, students, parents and members of the community.


We are surrounded today by an increasing focus on the importance of imagination, creativity and innovation in education, commerce, government and the community. What meaning do we attribute to these terms?


Imagination – the capacity to see or hear something that is not physically present. Creativity – applying imagination to real situations and problem solving. Innovation – accomplishing or producing something novel that has value.


School administrators, teachers and parents are essential to providing an environment that nurtures imagination and creativity. The “Plan for Action” of the Wisconsin Task Force on Arts and Creativity in Education (www.creative.wisconsin.gov) describes characteristics of an environment that nurtures creativity. The characteristics described below can apply to a classroom, a school, a community, a workplace or a family home.


• The environment is welcoming; a place where people feel safe taking risks. • There is a sense of community and teamwork. • Curiosity is encouraged and respected. • Learning is situated in an authentic context so that work is valued and relevant. • Time is allowed for ideas to incubate. • The physical environment itself is stimulating in multiple ways.


• The work space allows for flexibility so that people can work alone, in small groups, and in larger groups.


• “Mistakes” are viewed as a normal part of the learning process and viewed as opportunities to improve.


• Inquiry and investigation are valued because the outcomes of creative work are not always known at the beginning of a project.


Administrators, teachers and parents can provide these environments in which others can learn and creativity can flourish. It does not require that we first define, discuss, agree on, or develop standards and curriculum for creativity. It does require that we provide an environment in which others can be successful. If those around us are successful, we have fulfilled an essential goal for an administrator. It is also my goal.


My Very Best Wishes for Your Success,


Michael George, Executive Director Wisconsin Center for Music Education


10 January 2011


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