POV: Did you screen the film at your school? What did parents and students have to say? What kind of responses have you gotten from your local community and others to the film?
Kerry Purcell: Since I am no longer the principal at Harvard Park Elementary School, I was not able to screen the film at my school. However, I did do a special screening for all Harvard Park Elementary School staff on Friday, September 11, 2009. I felt that it was very important that I created an opportunity for a shared viewing for those who desired or needed that. As anyone who views the film quickly discovers, the content of the film is, at times, heavy and emotional. The scenes beautifully, yet emotionally, depict the heart work that occurs within the walls of not only Nash and Harvard Park, but within the walls of all schoolhouses across our great country. For the most part, the reactions of staff members after the initial viewing were positive. Folks felt as though the film was honest and real. They also felt as though it was about time. About time that the story of heart work came out to those policy makers, community members, etc. who make decisions about public education, yet may not ever get the chance to step inside a school. Those who viewed the film were also left with the feeling of wanting more. They felt as though there were so many untold stories that make their work "hard work" stories of the heart that those who are willing to listen must hear.
In terms of the local community's reaction to the film, I must say that it has been pretty quiet. There was a small article in the newspaper and a local radio interview that only occurred because they were a host site to an NPR interview which I participated in to support the film. I feel that this is unfortunate as we, as a school staff, feel that the film doesn't just represent Harvard Park but the larger community as well. I am very anxious to see the community response once it premieres on local PBS networks.
POV: How are you enjoying being a consultant? What schools have you visited in your work as a consultant? Do you miss Harvard Park? If viewers are interested in helping the students at Harvard Park what can they do?
Purcell: People often ask me if I enjoy my new role as a senior consultant with Focus on Results. I would say, overall, that I enjoy the job very much. I find the work of supporting districts and schools across the country to be challenging and rewarding. Focus on Results works with districts and schools across the country as they strive to close the achievement gap and raise expectations for all students. What's great about our work is that it is not an "out of the box" program. We look at ourselves as service providers for district and school teams and work in collaboration with them to enhance their practices through data analysis, identifying a focus, selecting best practices, providing targeted pd and time for teacher talk, reallocating resources, and engaging families. It's exciting, challenging and fun because the work looks the same, yet different, everywhere. My current clients that I feel so blessed to serve are located in Mt. Sterling, IL, Pittsburgh, PA, and Worcester, MA. I learn something from each place I visit as we work together to support the needs of every child, in every classroom, every day no matter what!
As much as I enjoy my new work, I miss Harvard Park more that words can describe. I cannot watch the film without feeling a huge sense of loss. Leaving Harvard Park was probably the most difficult decision I have ever made in my life. Harvard Park is part of me and I will always and forever have a special place in my heart for the school, the staff, the students, and the families that make up that most wonderful place.
Like any school, Harvard Park is faced with the uphill battle of meeting AYP while attending to matters of the heart. With that said, what the community can do to support the school that would have the greatest impact is to get involved. The whole idea of "taking a village to raise a child" is so true. The work that teachers and principals have to do has become so overwhelming that without community support; they will quickly burn out and ultimately give up. I would encourage anyone who can to consider making a financial donation that could be used to buy books for children without books at home. Or perhaps they would rather give the gift of time by serving as a volunteer at family events, which are typically held monthly. If neither of those is of interest, then perhaps someone might be interested in forgoing their office party during the holidays and using those funds to adopt a classroom where they would host a holiday party for those kiddos who may not get to celebrate elsewhere. And for those who want to jump in with both feet, become a mentor to a child. This, by far, is the ultimate gift of service in the life of a child.
POV: What advice would I give to new principals starting their first year?
Purcell: So, here's my top ten list (in no specific order) that I have given to new principals that I have had the honor of welcoming into the wonderful world of administration.
- Lead with your head and lead with your heart.
- Remember that before you lead you must manage. The culture and climate must be ready for learning and that takes time, thought, and a commitment to establishing rituals and routines that foster a safe learning environment.
- Build relationships — real relationships. People don't care what you know until they know that you care.
- Get in classrooms. There is much research to show that it does make a difference when you strive to be in classrooms 50% of the instructional day.
- Get a mentor or coach. The principalship can feel very isolated and lonely. Find that person who can be your support and your critical friend all at the same time. Meet regularly with that person.
- Advocate for your school community. And don't forget to bring the data with you. People will listen more closely when you talk using the facts.
- Set high expectations. Set them for yourself, your staff, your students, your families, and your community. Then watch people rise to the occasion.
- Establish a focus, set your goals, make a plan, and then get to work Overloading the buffet plate with a lot of initiatives and programs just won't do it.
- Open the door and communicate. Listen to understand and speak to be heard. Remember that you set the tone for the building and that people want to "do the right thing" for you. Tell them. Show them. Support them. Celebrate them.
- Keep the balance. You can't be good to others if you aren't good to yourself. Airlines remind me of this everyday. They tell you to first put your oxygen mask on before you try to help the person sitting next to you. A good life lesson for everyone.
POV: What advice would you give to parents concerned about their children and their schools?
Purcell: Get involved. Get involved. Get involved. Parents are a child's first, last, and most important teacher. Don't be afraid to walk into their child's school and support it however they can. With that said, families must try to listen to understand. Remember that teachers and principals are trained to educate children and that they drive into the school parking lot each morning with the expertise to do just that. They also know and believe that in order to help all children achieve high standards that they must engage families. Now more than ever schools are opening their doors and providing opportunities for families to learn ways to support their child's learning and ways to grow their own learning. Take advantage of those opportunities. It is the greatest gift you can give to your child to be engaged and involved in their education which is the key to unlocking their dreams and making them come true.
Talk About This
Have a questions or a comment for Kerry Purcell? Enter it below.The Principal Story
Kerry,
I watched "The Principal Story" quite by accident last evening -- my wife was watching a program on aging, and it showed a teaser for your story, so I figured, "Why not?"
I was absolutely caught up in what you and Tresa have done in 2 schools that most would consider hoplessly doomed to fail. I taught at Tilden Career Community Academy for 7 years, from '97 - '03; the school had a 51% mobility rate, 95% of the kids were on reduced or free lunches, and the graduation rate was abysmal. We were on "eternal probation" and always heard rumors of reconstitution. I remember the constant movement of region administrators through the building, implementing new programs that were supposed to work but never did. I have the utmost admiration and respect for what you did, how you did it, and the results you realized. Your work at Harvard Park was nothing short of phenomenal. As a principal, you were blessed with the ability to see problems both globally and at their very smallest level; very few principals have that talent. It was obvious how, as a person, you genuinely and deeply cared about everyone who entered your school, from the custodian to your administrative staff. I found myself cheering for you and shedding tears, because, again, I understand the problems and issues you faced. "The Principal Story" is an extraordinary documentary, and it is abundantly clear that the producers wanted to get as close to students and teachers as possible to bring your story to life. This documentary should be required viewing by every principal, every aspiring principal and every administrator -- and anyone who cares about the education of our children.
I felt called to enter Special Education, and am teaching cross-cat classes at Bartlett High School now -- the 3-hour round trip commute from Bartlett to 47th and Union just became physically overwhelming, or I'd still be at Tilden. But even out here, in the 'burbs, much is still the same -- having to do more with less, and still trying to meet AYP. Kids, although they're not poor or indigent, still have many of the same problems that my students at Tilden had.
Thank you again, Kerry, for being what so few principals and administrators are to our children. I wish you the best of luck in your new endeavors, and remember that "Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." I genuinely hope that someday, you will feel the tug of a principalship too strong to ignore.
You are my hero!
Sincerely,
Doug Faulls
by Doug Faulls from Bartlett, IL
September 16, 2009, 2:15 PM
retired
I was moved to tears by the total devotion
of the staff at Harvard Park. I am not a
teacher but I strongly feel that every single child needs to be loved, protected and educated.
Congratulations for showing us this important documentary.
by eda balsam from santa cruz, california
September 17, 2009, 3:25 AM
Of all the documentaries about schools that I have seen on tv this is the most powerful. Over the years John Merrow's reports have been excellent - lately about Washington D. C. and Michele Rhee.
In 1960 another teacher and I had 75 children in a kindergarten class in the morning and another 75 in the afternoon in Chicago's Suder School. Almost 50 years ago. I wasn't able to make much difference. But these two principals were beautiful to watch.
Please show this P.O.V. documentary as often as possible. More must be done to help these selfless educators who are on the right track. Education is on Obama's agenda. He needs an army of dedicated philosphers, teachers, and parents to help him.
by Marialouise Stracke from Chicago, IL
September 17, 2009, 9:55 PM
Principal, Tabernacle Christian School
This was an outstanding documentary! Our children no matter where they go to school need the type of leadership that these principals have demonstrated. I pray that they recieve support to continue. Even the greatest leaders can only continue the fight if they are supported.
by Katobwa B. Stallworth from Clarksville, TN
September 17, 2009, 10:31 PM
RETIRED
35+ YEARS AGO i WAS A TEACHER THEN WENT INTO THE BUSINESS WORLD WRER I JUST RECENTLY RETIRED. i ALWAYS HAD MY HEART IN EDUCATION THAT IS WHY I THOUGHT THIS SHOW OF THESE TEACHERS ACHIEVEMENTS WERE WONDERFUL. UNFORTUNELY AS IN THE BUSINESS WORLD WHEN YOU HAVE SOMEONE WITH THE LIKES OF KERRY WHO IS EXCATLY WHERE THEY SHOULD AND WANT TO BE SOME INEPT ADMINISTATOR DICEDES THEY SHOULD BE SOMEWHERE ELSE AND WANTS TO MOVE THEM. THE END RESULT IS THIS PERSON NOT ONLY DOESN'T STAY WHERE HE OR SHE SHOULD BE BUT TAKES A DIFFERENT PATH AND THEN THE BIGGEST LOSER ARE THE FACULT AND STUDENT THAT SHE SO APTLY LEAD BEFORE. IF IT ISN'T BROKE DON'T FIX IT!!!
by Joseph Montone from NAPLES, FL.
September 18, 2009, 4:35 AM
Thank You!
I have been an assistant principal for 7 years. You state that you wanted to tell a story about schools across the nation and you did. This is a love story-a love story about dedicated educators that is played out across the nation everyday. In the show you state that this is a job that can "consume" you. It meant a lot to me to hear it verbalized. Thank you.
by Julie Fitzpatrick from El Paso, Texas
September 18, 2009, 8:32 PM
teacher
I noticed that like most principals, you have nothing to say about teacher working conditions. You want to "get in classrooms," and set "high expectations," but what are you doing to make sure teachers have what they need? At my school all administrators have their own office but many teachers don't have their own classrooms. We don't even have a department office. Talk is cheap, especially when it comes to respect for teachers. When I think of what a principal is, the best ones have been advocates for teachers and work to make teacher ability to teach well easier, not more difficult. I have only encountered one such administrator unfortunately. What do you have to say about teacher working conditions?
by LA Teacher from Los Angeles, CA
September 19, 2009, 8:26 PM
I watched the film last night and was so very touched by these heart-centered people, giving so much of themselves for the greater good. I thank god for them and others like them. It warmed my heart to see such caring and efforts to work WITH these kids, beyond academics. I was saddened to hear how little support they have, i.e. social worker available only one day a week for the kids, etc. They are tackling a Mt. Everest on their own. It saddens me that our children and our future are not valued highly by The System. Thank you for making this film.
by Atma Devi from Santa FE, NM
September 20, 2009, 2:01 PM
Keep it up
I only moved here recently from Ireland. We don't really have the same extreme challenges highlighted here, but we do have an educational system that recognises how utterly essential is it to guide and educate our children. Most of my extended family are teachers and they love what they do. The same is clearly true here.
To all those portrayed in this documentary, I applaud and admire you. Keep up the wonderful work. Keep this country great!
by Colm from Boston, MA
September 20, 2009, 10:50 PM
M.D.
If you ever wish to SOLVE a problem, it is ESSENTIAL to identify ALL of the factors that cause that problem. Then you must reverse all of those factors. If you leave even one factor out of your solution, you will fail.How do we know this? We know this because we face the same problems with education of our children in certain schools that we faced 54 years ago. Therefore, some factor or factors are not being addressed. If you look at education of children there are five factors involved: 1] the community surrounding the school; 2] the parents of the child; 3] the school; 4] the teachers; 5] the administrators of the school. It is like trying to paint the outside of your house. You need five essential items to do this successfully: 1] primer paint; 2] finishing paint; 3] tarps; 4] brushes; 5] ladders. If you leave even ONE item out, you will fail. Each school system may leave a different factor out of their solution, but one factor, in and of itself, that is left out will simply cause failure. The reason as to why factors are left out is because of BLAME. Factor number one blames factors number three and four; factor number five blames factors number one and two, and on and on and on. If you say a kind word to a student at school, it will not solve cause number one, will it? If the school recieves the money to increase the standard of books for the student, it will not solve cause number two, will it? If a parent wants their child to have available the best education possible, it will not solve cause number four, will it? What will be your first reaction to what I have just stated: blame? So, is it solvable? Yes it is. Everyone [government, N.T.A., community counsil, etc.] involved in attempts to solve the problem has ALWAYS blamed someone else. So, what is the answer? Self-honesty is the answer. Understand YOUR defect, fix your defect, and ask [and assume] that each cause will do the same. Then you will finally see the change that you seek begin. Thomas Ryscavage, M.D.
by Thomas Ryscavage from York, Pennsylvania
September 21, 2009, 5:31 AM
Schools - Failing Down to a Science
How boring. How same ole same. Schools are doing the same things with the same results The problem starts at the top. Make a change in principals and the rest will follow. Talk about people with NO vision. No guts to go beyond the data. The data is incomplete,false or falty. The principal who fired the teacher for lack of discipline (race , weight, or used her to set an example) should have been fired herself. The whole story was not told. The next principal, so typical, was moved up in the system to supposedly teach what she doesn't even know. What a blow to the system. These principals are step climbers. Can the Nash principal add any more to her credentials? Arne Duncan - forget about it. God help another generation of our children.
by bored teacher from Mishawaka, IN
September 21, 2009, 5:15 PM
Disagrees with Failing down to a science
If the whole story is not told, why don't you do something to tell it. Obviously, you are a teacher who doesn't know how to spell-- "falty" nice.
What exactly do you know? Not much, apparently.
Obviously, you don't buy into the concept of excellence.
by Failing down to a science questioned from Springfield, IL
September 22, 2009, 9:12 AM