Front of the Class

This is a must see for anyone who has been promoted from within to a supervisory role. Being a supervisor is like moving to the front of the class. Everyone around you is watching your moves and expecting the best. But it takes more than a promotion or a job title to be a great supervisor. It takes leadership.

Sixth grade teacher Tamara Davis remembers little Bobby Ward as “a natural leader hiding in the back of the class.” So when the grown-up Robert Ward calls 12 years later asking for advice about his new job as supervisor, she is more than happy to give him a refresher course on leadership.

There are two principles that all true leaders use as their guides. One is “You only succeed when they do.” A good supervisor must constantly ask, “What do they need from me to succeed?” The answer to this question is the second principle, and the backbone of The Front of the Class: Be first, be fair, be firm and be flexible.

Hilarious recollections of best and worst teachers, the moving story of a classroom hero, everyone’s favorite homework excuses, and flashbacks to the teacher’s pet all figure into a memorable lesson on the qualities of a true leader. This is a film with wisdom, warmth and a sense of humor for supervisors.

Participants Will Learn About:

• Being First: set the mood, set the pace and set the standards
• Being Fair: don’t play favorites, share the credit, and take the heat
• Being Firm: state the facts, get agreement on the problem, and explore a solution
• Being Flexible: assume the best of people, make room for good ideas, and admit when you’re wrong