It seems uncommon to me for high school students to say they love their principal. But, I’ve heard more kids than I can remember say this about this week’s guest, Dr. Chris Botts.

In this second of two interviews with Dr. Botts, or Chris as he prefers to be called, I have the honor of listening to him describe some of his strategies for connecting with students. And, making sure every kid knows they are valued and appreciated.

Chris shares the unique and effective techniques he and his staff have used throughout his 22 years of service as a high school administrator.

Dr. Chris Botts is an exceptional role model for leaders with careers in education administration and teaching.

But, if you’re not a principal, you will easily see the parallels between serving students and caring for customers.

The three fundamental career skills from Chris will help you build and boost your career in any industry.

Today’s Guest

Dr. Chris Botts

Dr. Chris Botts is the principal of Maize High School in Maize, Kansas. He started his career at Complete High School Maize and has been in the USD 266 district 22 years.

Loved and respected by his staff and students alike, Dr. Botts was named as Sedgwick County Area Educational Services Interlocal Cooperative No. 618’s Principal of the Year in August 2017. In 2020, he received the Kansas Scholastic Press Association Administrator of the Year award.

You’ll Learn

• Who the customers are for a principal, including the most important customer
• How to improve your organization’s culture with a few pennies
• Creative ways to empathize with and better understand your students or customers
• Why it’s so important to never forget what it’s like to be a kid (or a customer)
• How embarrassing yourself can build connections with your team and prepare you for future career opportunities
• The story of how one student’s Tik Tok skill helped identify disconnected students and create connections to support them

3 Fundamental Career Skills from Today’s Guest

1. Show up

Showing up and doing the job or task you were assigned to do is a huge part of having a successful career.

2. Stand out (by working hard)

Why not be the best at whatever you do?

The little things are going to add up in life. Take pride in what you do.

“Any success I’ve had in life, I attribute it to that lone trait, period. Work hard!” - Dr. Chris Botts

3. Problem solve

The ability to think and solve problems will serve you well at every stage of your career in any industry or field.

Links and Resources from this Episode

Connect with Dr. Botts through email at (cbotts AT usd266.com)

Follow him on Twitter at (@thebotty)

Maize News newsmagazine produced by the Maize High School journalism department articles:

“Mystery of Botts’ missing stapler solved“

“Botts challenges teachers to do one nice thing a day "

For More Information

Check out the full show notes on the episode page at GregHarrod.com.