Managers and Leaders
As you place your cursor over each word, you will see its definition. Both skill sets are needed to administer an effective VPK program.
Managers and Leaders
A manager is the person responsible for planning and directing a group of individuals, monitoring their work, and taking corrective action when necessary.
A leader is someone who can motivate a group of people towards a common goal.
“Managers are people who do things right, and leaders are people who do the right thing.” (Bennis, Warren G. (1994). On Becoming a Leader, Pergeus Books.)
The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) published revised criteria for early childhood accreditation which give a detailed rationale for the need for both management and leadership in quality early childhood programs. The NAEYC Early Childhood Program Standards became effective September 16, 2006, and are available at http://www.naeyc.org/academy/standards. Standard 10: Leadership and Management, states that "Excellent programming requires effective governance structures, competent and knowledgeable leadership, and comprehensive and well-functioning administrative policies, procedures, and systems. Effective leadership and management create the environment for high quality care and education by:
- ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and guidelines
- promoting fiscal soundness, program accountability, effective communication, helpful consultative services, positive community relations, and comfortable and supportive workplaces
- maintaining stable staff
- and instituting opportunities for ongoing program planning for staff and career development and for continuous program improvement."
