While there are many exceptional, yet necessary, qualities of a good leader, it is the leader's beliefs in which greatness takes its first breath , is favored by the action and spreads everywhere. the establishment. A great leader believes in encouraging, not destroying; by establishing precedence instead of yielding to preeminence; in collaboration and not in division; by giving, without taking; and by having high standards and volunteering to be the first of many to be held to them. A great leader does not take advantage of people being led, but rather creates a benefit for people by giving them the opportunity to lead. Only when people take ownership of an institution will passion be cultivated, action taken, and greatness achieved. I believe that a great leader must first seek to understand, then to be understood. This is the belief that matters most to me. There have been too many times when I have failed to follow this credo and too many times when I have unintentionally created discord and misunderstanding among my peers and students. Now, when I first listen to a teacher who is having problems with another colleague, I can fully understand the situation before discerning what advice should be given, what action should be taken, or if the teacher simply needs help. 'an ear to fill. and a moment to reflect on the awkward situation. When the door to communication was opened, a leader laid the foundation for collaboration. When people are willing to listen and understand others, ideas can be shared, enthusiasm can be created, solutions can be sought, and action can be taken. I believe that a positive collaborative spirit can help a mathematics department generate innovation...... middle of paper ......; teachers would look to each other to improve classroom teaching and curriculum; and crises would arise at the most opportune moment. Unfortunately, a perfect world does not exist. Events overlap, student problems arise, teachers stumble, and it's rare that these things happen when it's convenient for them. Therefore, it is imperative for a great leader to set their priorities in a way that will help them handle whatever might come their way. As an administrative leader, I will seek to encourage, appreciate and understand my colleagues, faculty, staff and students. I will set high standards, be the first to adhere to them, find the tools and knowledge to improve myself and help others do the same. Through constant assistance, appreciation and collaboration, I will help our school become the best possible place to learn, grow and give..