How can I become less intimidated by an administrator?

Question

I have taught for many years. I do my work, I take my time, I plan. In short, I do everything I am supposed to do and then some. I can talk to just about anyone, except for this one administrator. He's very stern. He never gives positive comments and I find myself in the position of second guessing my decisions and general inadequacy. This person is not the sort that I can go and talk this out. To compound things, this administrator is also in charge of evaluating me. Previously I have had administrators that we very upbeat and positive, noting the things I had done to implement learning in my classroom, but not from this person. I am supposed to meet with him this week and honestly, I can't sleep I am sorry worried. How can I overcome this nervousness?

Answer 1

If you know you're doing a good job and your previous evaluations have been positive, I wouldn't worry about it.  There will always be someone that will give you the feeling that you aren't doing things right.  However, your students are learning, your planning your lessons, etc.  You are a professional and have demonstrated that in the past.  You will do just fine!

Answer 2

DO NOT EVER BE INTIMIDATED my an administrator.  The beauty of our job, is that our classroom is our domain.  Within our walls, We make the rules.  

When you talk to him about your goals, plans, and objectives....Think about they "why" part of why you are doing these things.  Is it because you have incredible ideas, and you just got it like that?  Or is it because you know your kids, and you know their needs, and this is what is best for them.  

when administrators can feel that you have those kids best interest at heart, it is obvious.  When it is obvious, it seems like there is no way in h**l anyone knows those kids better than you.  When they can see this, trust me...they leave your job to you, and they butt the heck out.  

for example....

"I want try this because....."

"I want to do it this way because...."

I will not be doing what the others are doing because ...."

When the reasons you stick in have everything to do with the best interests of your kids....then it goes from "Gosh we just don't see eye to eye and you think you know what you're doing" to "wow, you're doing things because of your kids"

But yes...Please dont ever make an administrator intimidate you.  You have authority too.  You are a person and a professional.  Administrators appreciate teachers with a backbone. It feels scary at first, but dont be afraid.