Challenges Faced By A Charter School Principal And Administrator At Middle School
Alma's biggest challenge as a charter school principal and administrator is the multifaceted nature of the role, encompassing "emotional challenges" like witnessing students' choices that may concern them, and "economic challenges" such as securing funding for essential programs like after-school tutoring. The ultimate responsibility for addressing all operational issues, from teacher actions to parental concerns, rests squarely on their shoulders, making it a demanding but impactful career choice within a minority community.
Emotional Intelligence, Resource Management, Leadership, Community Impact, Problem-Solving
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Alma Zepeda
Charter School Principal and Administrator
Middle School
Yale College 2012
Johns Hopkins School of Education, MS in Elementary Education, 2015
Political Science, American Studies
Education
Operations and Project Management
International Student, Took Out Loans
Video Highlights
1. The emotional toll of witnessing students make choices that may not align with their best interests, especially in a challenging community.
2. The need for creative problem-solving to overcome financial limitations and implement desired programs (e.g., finding funding for after-school tutoring).
3. The ultimate responsibility for overseeing all aspects of the school, including handling conflicts involving teachers, students, and parents.
Transcript
What is your biggest challenge in your role?
There are many challenges in being an administrator and principal in charter schools. An emotional toll occurs when a student takes a path you don't agree with. You see the future puzzle pieces and have concerns for them and what they will do.
I worked in a minority neighborhood on purpose, wanting to make an impact on my community. Sometimes, things don't go your way, and that is emotionally difficult to handle.
There are other challenges as well, like the whole system of education. Sometimes there are economic challenges; you want to bring a program to life but don't have enough funds. You have to think outside the box on how to get those funds.
This is to make after-school teachers and assistants happen so there is tutoring after school. So there are many challenges that are both economic and emotional.
Ultimately, the buck stops here. You have to oversee all the operations in your building. If a teacher, student, or parent does something you disagree with or that is of concern, you are the one who has to step in and deal with it.
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