Some things I believe 21st century administrators need to know, understand, and be able to do:
Be Humble. The tugboat is the least flashy, least visible, least interesting boat in the river. And yet the harbor would not be able to function without it. The administrator is essential to the functioning of a school. Our job, however, is not to be the figurehead. Instead it is to facilitate everyone else’s job. The tugboat does not deliver any goods; that is the cargo ship’s job. The tugboat just makes it possible to get into position to get the delivery done. Be transparent. Open up to your staff and community about what is working, what you are struggling with, and how you are thinking as you move through any process.