Our ‘Leading voices’ article series features school principals from across India. Dr Jyoti Arora is the Principal of Mount Abu Public School in Sec-5 Rohini in Delhi.
Here, Anannya Chakraborty asks her 5 questions, including job interview tips for teachers, the importance of having a leadership mentor, and advice for those who are thinking about moving into leadership roles.
What advice would you give to an educator looking to move into a leadership role?
To become a leader, an educator should focus on building strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues. One must be open to feedback to move forward and develop their communication skills. It’s always an advantage when an educator displays initiative by taking on extra responsibilities and leading projects.
In a leadership role, one must always stay updated with the latest educational trends and practices. Most importantly, remain passionate about teaching and learning, and let that passion inspire those around you.
Who has been the most important leadership mentor in your career and why is it important for principals to have a mentor they can call on for support?
My most important mentor was the Chairman of our school, late Sh. D. N. Arora who guided me with wisdom and patience. Having a mentor is crucial because they offer experience-based insights and a safe space to discuss challenges and ideas. A mentor’s support helps us grow professionally and navigate complex situations with confidence.
Do you have any recruitment interview tips for teachers?
I would say that while giving an interview, one should be authentic and passionate. Educators should show their genuine interest in the school and its community. One must prepare beforehand by researching the school's values and mission and think about how their skills and experiences align with them. Also, it’s important to highlight specific examples of teaching success and how it positively impacted students.
What do you know now that you wish you’d known at the start of your career?
I wish I had known the importance of work-life balance. In the beginning, I often worked late, which led to burnout. Over time, I learnt that taking care of my wellbeing makes me a better educator and leader. Balance helps maintain enthusiasm and effectiveness in the long run. Also, experience teaches one to prioritise things.
Can you share a memorable moment from your career that had a significant impact on you?
A memorable moment was when I mentored a struggling student and helped him focus on his cricketing interest. He represented India at the international level. Seeing the transformation and knowing I played a part in it was incredibly rewarding. It reinforced my belief in the power of dedication, patience, and personalised support to making a difference in students’ lives.
As a school leader, how do you mentor teachers? And how do you build a strong community of support for them?
