BA

When I first heard the term "BA" I thought of Sgt. Bosco "B.A." Baracus from the A-Team.

In my world, it stands for Business Administrator. A "BA" runs the operations of a school district. From the financial side of things, to transportation, food service, and physical plant- all of the non-educational functions of a district are managed by a business administrator.

In my role as director of technology, I have a limited scope and focus. I can effect some change, but my effect is limited by the narrow scope of my job. I feel I have some God-given talents and abilities that might be better suited in a BA job that has a wider scope.

The most important characteristics of a BA, in my opinion, are integrity (handling all of the millions of dollars of tax-payer money with frugality and honesty), solid intentions (to make the district work more efficiently and effectively so that the education of kids is more effective), common sense (the ability to make decisions that are cost-effective, logical, and create productivity gains), and the ability to handle fragmented and disjointed tasks with a broad knowledge base. In short, I think I have what it takes, minus an MBA.

So, after talking to many people who know me, a few people in my district, and praying for guidance, I have decided to apply for the business administrator job in Pelham. I lack the credentials that would cement my chances. However, I have solid working relationships with everyone in town, including those outside of the school district in positions of authority, and I bring to the table knowledge of the District, solid intentions, integrity, and common sense.

In two years (or more), Pelham and Windham are going to split from being one administrative unit to two. At that time, if the folks in Pelham are far-sighted enough, Pelham would have a BA with two years of experience, an MBA, and a working knowledge of Pelham that would make the transition a positive experience.

I think my chances are about 40%, maybe more. Regardless, I feel strongly that applying is the right step. Anyone have any thoughts?