Administrators
Don't defy administrators — including the school board, which has the legal power to fire you. The quickest way to get fired is to disobey reasonable orders; that's insubordination. Just as your students must obey your orders, obey your superiors' orders — if those orders are reasonable.
Do I have to follow unreasonable orders?
Teachers' associations advise that if an administrator's nonsensical order isn't imminently dangerous, obey it, then immediately file a grievance — a written complaint — that the administrator has violated the law or the agreement between the district and association. You'll triumph in the grievance procedure by presenting an impartial arbitrator with compelling evidence.
In addition to obeying directives, forge relationships with administrators by volunteering to perform tasks that others dread. Recall that volunteers often gain immortal acclaim for their efforts. Therefore, volunteer to do a few difficult tasks. For example, if your principal sorely wants the Boy Scouts involved in your school but can't find anyone to make it happen, volunteer! Make phone calls and schedule an assembly for parents and Boy Scout representatives. You can do great things when you volunteer, and your principal may appreciate your efforts.
