Bill Burkhead's Page

It all starts with a questionAs an administrator, my professional development/learning goals are driven by asking - what can I do to make our school the BEST learning environment for our students and teachers?Practice what you preachIt has always been my philosophy as an administrator to lead by example, and not ask teachers or students to do anything I have not done, or am willing to do.…See More

Twitter Ethics 101"Who you are speaks so loudly I can't hear what you are saying"Ralph Waldo EmersonMr. Emerson's quote has always been a favorite of mine.  If Mr. Emerson was here today he might say "What you TWEET speaks so loudly about who you are I can't hear what you are saying."  Twitter is a powerful and…See More

“The secret of education lies in respecting the pupil.” Ralph Waldo EmersonWhy Would an Administrator Go back to School?Plymouth North high school is a "School on the Move."  An important part of our growth and success as a school is finding ways to include our students in the decision making process.  This all started a few months ago when Plymouth North Housemaster Kevin…See More

There has been much debate in education on who is ultimately responsible for a child's learning.  In a perfect world the parents would be the child's first teachers.  They would then work closely with the best educators in the best schools using the best curriculum.  The students would receive an equitable education in a beautiful facility and then attend college for free, or enter the work…See More

Visit my Blog: The Burkie BlogA NEW TYPE OF NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION This will not be your typical New Year's resolution post promising to lose 20lbs, give more to charity or adopt a pet.  Although I find resolutions fun, well-intentioned and noble, I prefer to set goals regularly and live according to my values on a daily basis.  I believe actions speak louder than words, and would recommend that instead of resolutions we list what we've…See More

One of the most enjoyable parts of my job as an administrator is visiting classes.  Today I was so impressed with what I saw and learned, that I wrote a note to the class.  I share that note below.Ms. Babcock’s first period class:I wanted to thank you all for teaching me today.  As a teacher turned administrator I am always a student at heart, and would like to express my gratitude to your class for making me a better person today.  I entered your small class  and heard students reading poetry,…See More

Although I have over 20 years coaching experience, with stints at the college and high school levels, my first year as a youth football coach has been the most rewarding. I was able to coach my son for the first time and our team won the Super Bowl! But I would like to emphasize that WINNING IS ONLY A BYPRODUCT OF DOING ALL THE "LITTLE THINGS" WELL. It is my intent to share 5 of the "Little Things" that I believe made our year Fun & Exciting.1. Treat every child as if they were your own:…See More