A few months ago, I was having dinner with a respected leader and the topic of “care” came up. Specifically, I pointed out that having expectations for people is one of the highest expressions of care. By communicating clear and consistent expectations to your staff and students, you demonstrate care for their success, growth, and well-being.
When expectations are set, both staff and students know what is expected of them. This can lead to a sense of security and confidence in their ability to meet these expectations. When individuals feel supported in their efforts to meet expectations, they are more likely to feel motivated and engaged in their work and studies.
Furthermore, setting expectations can help to create a sense of accountability and responsibility for one’s actions. When staff and students know what is expected of them, they can take ownership of their work and behavior. This sense of responsibility can lead to a greater sense of pride in their accomplishments and greater respect for themselves and others.
Overall, expressing care through clear and consistent expectations can help to create a positive and supportive school community. When staff and students feel supported and accountable, they are more likely to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
I urge you to make communicating expectations a top priority for your staff and students. By doing so, you demonstrate your care and commitment to their success.
Published by Angelo DelliSanti
“Education? You don’t want to do that with your life. You’ve got other plans.” That’s what Angelo DelliSanti’s high school counselor told him his senior year. And she was right—at first. Angelo had spent three years preparing to become a U.S. Navy officer. But an internship with a math teacher during his senior year changed everything. Helping struggling students master algebra sparked a passion for education that would shape his career.
Over the next 15 years, Angelo served as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal, returning to his alma mater to teach World History and later advancing to leadership roles. As a principal, Angelo implemented the Capturing Kids’ Hearts process, leading to remarkable academic gains, increased scholarships, record-breaking graduation rates, and improved school culture. These achievements earned him recognition as the Rowan-Salisbury Schools Principal of the Year in 2018.
In 2022, Angelo joined Capturing Kids’ Hearts as a Leadership Solutions Strategist where he is dedicated to working together with school leaders to create remarkable schools. He holds a Bachelor’s in History and Secondary Education from UNC Charlotte, where he was a North Carolina Teaching Fellow. He also completed a Master’s in School Administration and completed all the required coursework for a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from his alma mater, earning the Outstanding Student Philip Morris Educational Fellowship in 2017.
Angelo lives in North Carolina with his wife, Kasey, whom he married in 2008. Together, they enjoy escapes to the mountains and beaches. Angelo’s passions include golf, non-fiction books, cooking, and sharing meals filled with laughter and connection around the table.
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CHOOSE TO BE GREAT 