Put a "Lasso" on Leadership

By: James Layman, Director of the Association of Washington Student Leaders

As the Director of the Association of Washington Student Leaders, I get to work with and learn from many principals and school leaders who work tirelessly to build, support, and sustain effective schools.

One of my favorite tv-shows in recent years has the hit series, 'Ted Lasso.' I have laughed, cried, been inspired, and most importantly, learned leadership skills and lessons that can be applied to any leadership context in which one finds themselves. Here are some of my favorite quotes leaders can lean on and weave into their daily practice:

• "Be a goldfish" Ted Lasso's catchphrase, "Be a goldfish," teaches us the value of resilience and staying present. As a school leader, challenges will arise, and it's crucial to approach them with a fresh mindset. By encouraging students and staff to adopt this perspective, you create an environment that promotes growth, adaptability, and a positive attitude toward overcoming obstacles. Embracing the resilience of a goldfish allows everyone in the school community to learn from past experiences, move forward, and continuously strive for improvement.

• "There's two buttons I never like to hit: panic and snooze" Leading can be overwhelming. I said it. Let us acknowledge the manic directions school leaders can be pulled at any given time. Ted's aversion to hitting the panic button highlights the importance of remaining calm and composed in the face of adversity. As a leader, addressing challenges head-on and taking a proactive approach is essential. By facing problems with a clear mind and a willingness to find solutions, school leaders can create a sense of stability and trust among staff, students, and families. This proactive leadership style enables the school community to overcome obstacles and work together towards common goals.

• "Success is not about the wins and losses. It's about helping these young fellas be the best versions of themselves, on and off the field" Ted Lasso's genuine concern for the growth and development of his players extends beyond the sports arena. Principals must prioritize the holistic well-being of their students. Fostering an environment that nurtures personal growth and character development is just as crucial as academic achievement. By investing in students' emotional, social, and ethical development, principals ensure they become well-rounded individuals capable of thriving in all aspects of life. This approach requires creating a school culture that values empathy, inclusivity, and individual progress. By emphasizing (and modeling) the importance of personal growth, leaders inspire their students and school community to reach their full potential and become positive contributors to society.

• "Success is not the absence of failure; it's the persistence through failure" As a school leader, redefining success as a continuous journey rather than a destination is essential. Ted Lasso's words emphasize that setbacks and failures are an inevitable part of the process. School leaders can encourage resilience and perseverance among students by celebrating their efforts and highlighting the valuable lessons learned from failures. By reframing setbacks as opportunities for growth, leaders empower students to face challenges head-on, develop a growth mindset, and cultivate a passion for lifelong learning. This approach nurtures students' self-belief, encourages them to take risks, and equips them with the essential skills needed to navigate the complexities of the modern world.

Leadership in a school setting demands more than just administrative skills; it requires the ability to inspire, support, and create a strong community. Ted Lasso's infectious positivity and unwavering dedication to his team offer valuable lessons for principals striving to lead their schools effectively. By embracing the qualities of resilience, composure, empathy, and a growth mindset, principals can create a nurturing environment that fosters the holistic development of their students. Let us take inspiration from Ted Lasso's leadership approach and continue to positively impact the lives of our students and our school communities. By implementing these lessons, school leaders can build an inclusive, supportive, and thriving school environment where students can flourish and achieve their full potential.

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