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The Importance of Vision

 


 "Vision is being able to see that which no one else can see." Simon Sinek describes vision as an iceberg, something that has great implications and a dramatic impact but is easily misinterpreted, overlooked or omitted. Forgive the English teacher in me, but I'll continue with the metaphor. Like an iceberg, vision has great power beneath the surface, but it takes a unique perspective and experience to see the ice at the surface and suspect more lies beneath. Watch the video below to hear Simon Sinek make this connection:



What is vision? It is what lies in the imagination, that which cannot be seen. It only becomes realized when it is shared, when others pick up the idea and bring it to their spaces as well.  And the more people that share the vision, the larger the impact on the culture of the group. 

Vision is a tricky thing. It must be developed in the mind of the leader, but it cannot only reside there. It has no power there. Instead, it becomes powerful when others believe it in too. I think this speaks to the power of leadership: leaders themselves are not powerful, despite the misconception that they are. Rather, it is the leader's ability to harness the power of those under their leadership that makes them effective. Strategic leadership, collaboration, continuous school improvement . . . so many efforts within a school building lack power because they are not connected to a shared vision. 

Mrs. Murphy's Vision & Mission

I am actively revising my vision based on my growth as an educator. Below are my most current interpretations of my professional vision and mission. 

Vision

I am a catalyst of change at Burke High. 
  • As a teacher, I challenge and inspire students to grow academically and beyond. 
  • As a SAT Coordinator, I positively contribute to student and staff success, resulting in a decrease in behavior referrals and an increase in student achievement for historically marginalized populations.
  • As a member of my community, I seek to inspire others, build efficacy, and fight for equity in all of my pursuits. 

Mission

 I ignite positive change at Burke High by creating safe spaces for students to connect with the resources they need to succeed, implementing rigorous and engaging instruction in my classroom, and using every student or staff interaction as an opportunity to make a positive impact.

What is your vision? 

Critical questions to consider:
  1. How does vision guide your daily practice? (Think lesson planning, collaborating with colleagues, or developing leadership initiatives.)
  2. How does your vision change as a result of your personal and professional growth? 
  3. How do you share your vision with others?
  4. How have the effective leaders you've experienced helped you "buy in" to their vision?
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