I'm never had a job as an educator in a school system, but I don't think it's easy to find a principal who is as loved and respected by his staff as Dr. Chris Botts.

In this first of two interviews with Dr. Botts, or Chris as he prefers to be called, I have the honor of listening to him share his approach to leading teachers and other education professionals to serve and care for their students.

Chris outlines the mindset and techniques he has learned and successfully applied in his 22 years of service as a high school administrator.

Dr. Chris Botts is an outstanding example of a kind and confident leader in the field of education. 

But, even if your career is not as a teacher or administrator, you'll benefit from his wisdom. And, the three fundamental career skills Chris shares will help you be a better leader.

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

• You can have empathy as a leader and have high expectations at the same time.
• Every kid (and adult) has "stuff" going on even when they appear to have it all together.
• Why substitute teachers are so valuable to the school system even though they don't get the credit they deserve.
• How giving employees the freedom to be gone from work is a good long term investment.
• One skill or character trait that is an absolute requirement to be in education.

3 Fundamental Career Skills from Today's Guest

1. Communicate by listening

Ask good questions. Be receptive to critique and feedback. 

2. Empathize 

School administrators should never forget what it's like to be a teacher. Every leader, regardless of their field, needs to remember what it's like to be on the front line.

Teachers and administrators should never forget what it's like to be a student.

3. Be adaptable 

Lead through change by being able to adjust and meet people where they are.

Links and Resources from this Episode

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

Follow him on Twitter at (@thebotty)

The Jordan Peterson podcast

Words of nomination for 2020 Kansas Scholastic Press Association Administrator of the Year

2013 #askbotts video from Maize News newsmagazine produced by the Maize High School journalism department

For More Information

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