How to Become a Director of Education (Plant Seeds, Grow Success)
If you’re inspired by the power of education to shape minds and have pondered on the pathway to becoming a Director of Education, you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, we’ll unravel the EXACT steps you need to take to launch your career as a Director of Education. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you need.
- The qualifications that will propel you towards your goal.
- Strategies to secure a position as a Director of Education.
So, whether you’re a budding educationalist or a seasoned professional seeking to elevate your career, stay tuned.
We’re about to uncover the roadmap to becoming a Director of Education.
Let’s embark on this journey!
Steps to Become a Director of Education
Step 1: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step towards becoming a Director of Education is obtaining a bachelor’s degree.
Typically, this degree should be in education, although other related fields such as psychology or sociology could also be beneficial.
During this program, you will learn about teaching methods, child development, and educational policies.
This four-year degree is a critical foundation for understanding the theories of education and teaching practices.
You will be taught to plan, implement, and evaluate educational programs, and understand the diverse needs of students.
You may have the opportunity to concentrate on a specific area of education, such as special education or adult learning.
An important part of your bachelor’s program may also be gaining practical experience in a classroom setting.
This not only gives you a first-hand experience of the education system but also makes you familiar with the day-to-day responsibilities of an educator.
After obtaining a Bachelor’s degree, it is common for aspiring Directors of Education to pursue a master’s degree in Education Administration or Leadership, or a related field, to further equip themselves with the managerial skills required for this role.
However, this can be a next step after gaining some years of teaching experience.
Step 2: Gain Teaching Experience
After completing your bachelor’s degree, start gaining practical teaching experience.
Many aspiring directors of education begin their careers as teachers to get firsthand experience in the classroom and understanding of educational systems.
This experience is crucial for progressing in this role, as it provides the necessary insights about teaching methodologies, student behavior, curriculum needs, and school administration.
Work at various levels of education if possible – elementary, middle, high school, or even college.
This will give you a broad perspective of the educational system and allow you to understand the unique needs and challenges at each level.
In addition to teaching, take on leadership roles such as department head or grade-level chair to get a feel for educational administration and management.
This experience is invaluable as the Director of Education role involves strategic planning, administrative tasks, and leading teachers and staff.
Step 3: Earn a Master’s Degree in Education Administration or Leadership
While working as a teacher, consider pursuing a master’s degree in education administration or leadership.
This degree will equip you with the advanced skills needed for the Director of Education role such as strategic planning, policy development, and staff management.
Additionally, it typically includes coursework on topics such as educational law, budgeting and finance for schools, and curriculum development.
Many universities offer part-time or online programs, allowing you to continue gaining teaching experience while studying.
Some programs may also require an internship or practicum that provides hands-on experience in school administration.
Remember, the role of Director of Education involves influencing the direction of a school or district’s educational policy and curriculum, hence, a deep understanding of education administration is crucial.
Step 3: Pursue a Master’s Degree in Education Administration or Leadership
As you aim to become a Director of Education, it’s essential to pursue a master’s degree in education administration, educational leadership, or a related field.
This degree will equip you with advanced leadership skills, understanding of school law, finance, curriculum development, and human resources.
It will also help you learn about the complexities and nuances of running an educational institution.
During your master’s program, you might also have the opportunity to specialize in a certain area, such as early childhood education, secondary education, or special education.
Deciding on a specialization depends on your career goals and the type of educational institution you wish to lead.
In addition to formal education, this step also involves gaining practical experience.
Most master’s programs integrate internships or practicums into their curriculum, providing you with the opportunity to work in an administrative setting under the guidance of experienced professionals.
This combination of formal education and practical experience is crucial in preparing you for the challenges of being a Director of Education.
It will also make you a more attractive candidate when you start applying for leadership positions in the field of education.
Step 4: Acquire Administrative Experience
To become a Director of Education, it is imperative to acquire administrative experience within an educational setting.
This can be achieved by seeking positions such as department chair, assistant principal, or even principal.
These roles allow you to gain valuable experience in managing staff, developing curriculum, and understanding the intricacies of educational systems.
Administrative roles will give you the opportunity to demonstrate and build up your leadership skills, which are crucial for a Director of Education.
You will learn how to make significant decisions that affect teachers, students, and the overall educational program.
Additionally, these roles can provide experience in areas such as budgeting, educational law, and stakeholder communication, which are all important in a Director of Education role.
It’s also an opportunity to understand and participate in the strategic planning and implementation of educational policies.
Furthermore, having administrative experience can make you a more attractive candidate when applying for the Director of Education role, as it demonstrates your understanding of the workings of educational institutions and your ability to manage and lead.
It’s also common for these roles to require a certain number of years of administrative experience, so it’s a necessary step in your career progression.
Step 5: Obtain State Administrative Certification
To progress in your career as a Director of Education, it is imperative to obtain your state administrative certification.
This certification often falls under the umbrella of School Administrator Certification or Educational Leadership Certification, and is a requirement in most states for anyone looking to hold a director or other administrative position within the education system.
The certification process varies from state to state, but typically involves completing an accredited graduate program in educational administration or leadership, gaining relevant work experience, and passing a state-administered examination.
Some states may also require you to hold a current teaching license.
By completing the certification, you demonstrate your proficiency in educational law, curriculum development, financial management and other fundamental aspects of school administration.
This enhances your credibility and equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead an educational institution successfully.
Remember to keep your certification current as most states require regular renewal every few years.
It is advisable to research the specific requirements for administrative certification in your state to ensure you are taking the right steps towards your goal of becoming a Director of Education.
Step 6: Continue Professional Development
As you progress in your career as a Director of Education, it is important to continue your professional development.
This is a critical step towards staying relevant in your role, keeping up with the latest advancements and techniques in education, and enhancing your skills and knowledge.
You can undertake further postgraduate studies and earn advanced degrees, such as a PhD in Education, which can provide you with deeper insights into educational policies, leadership, and management.
Participating in workshops, seminars, and conferences can also provide a platform for you to learn from experts in the field, share your knowledge, and network with other professionals.
Consider obtaining certifications relevant to your role.
These certifications, offered by various educational institutions and professional bodies, can help you specialize in specific areas of education and can make you more desirable to employers.
Finally, stay updated with educational trends, research, and laws by subscribing to relevant publications and joining professional organizations.
This will not only broaden your knowledge but also keep you informed about the challenges and opportunities in the educational field.
Remember that professional development is a continuous process.
The more you invest in your learning and growth, the more effective and successful you will be as a Director of Education.
Step 7: Apply for Education Director Positions
After obtaining the necessary experience, credentials, and qualifications, you are now ready to pursue director of education positions.
These roles can be found in various types of educational institutions such as public and private schools, colleges, universities, and even non-profit organizations.
Start by researching potential schools or organizations that you are interested in.
Learn about their mission, values, and the communities they serve.
This will not only help you understand if the organization is a good fit for you, but also help you tailor your application and interview responses to align with their specific needs and objectives.
Craft a compelling resume that showcases your leadership skills, educational background, relevant experience, and accomplishments.
Highlight your abilities to develop curriculum, manage budgets, mentor staff, and improve student outcomes.
You should also include any special projects or initiatives that you have led, particularly those that have resulted in measurable improvements.
Write a personalized cover letter for each application, expressing your interest in the position and explaining why you would be a good fit for the role and the organization.
Demonstrate your knowledge of the institution and its needs, and align this with your skills and experiences.
Ensure to provide strong references who can vouch for your qualifications, character, and work ethic.
These could be former employers, colleagues, or subordinates.
Finally, prepare for the interview process.
This will likely involve multiple rounds of interviews, possibly with different members of the organization.
Be ready to discuss your educational philosophy, leadership style, problem-solving skills, and specific examples of how you have made a positive impact in previous roles.
Remember that the process can be lengthy, and you may face rejection.
However, persistence and a genuine passion for education can be your keys to landing a fulfilling role as a director of education.
Step 8: Develop Leadership Skills
As an aspiring Director of Education, it is crucial to hone your leadership skills.
A significant part of the Director of Education role involves guiding and managing the educational staff, making key decisions, and shaping the vision of your institution.
Thus, having strong leadership skills is imperative.
You can develop your leadership skills through various ways.
You may consider taking up leadership roles in your current educational setting or elsewhere, such as serving as a department head or academic advisor.
You can also attend leadership workshops, seminars, or earn a leadership certification.
In addition, participating in professional organizations and networking with other leaders in the field of education can be hugely beneficial.
This can provide you with opportunities to learn from experienced leaders and gain insights into their leadership styles and strategies.
Remember, effective leadership encompasses a wide range of skills such as communication, problem-solving, decision-making, strategic planning and team-building.
It is also about fostering a positive learning environment and inspiring others to do their best.
So, take every opportunity to nurture these skills as you prepare for your role as a Director of Education.
Step 9: Stay Updated on Education Policies and Innovations
In the rapidly evolving education sector, staying up-to-date on the latest policies, innovations, and teaching strategies is crucial.
As a Director of Education, you must be aware of changes in the education landscape that may affect your institution, students, and staff.
One effective way to stay updated is to regularly attend conferences, seminars, and workshops related to education.
These events often highlight the latest trends in teaching methods, learning tools, and policies that directly impact the education sector.
Joining professional associations for educators can also provide access to valuable resources and give you the opportunity to network with other education professionals.
Another strategy is to continually engage in professional development and training.
Many organizations offer courses and certifications for education administrators that cover new approaches in pedagogy, advancements in education technology, and changes in education law.
Following education news and subscribing to relevant journals and publications can also keep you abreast of the latest developments and thought leadership in the field.
Finally, leverage your network.
Regularly engage with other educators, administrators, and policy experts to exchange insights, experiences, and best practices.
As the Director of Education, your ability to adapt to changes and implement new strategies is instrumental in leading a successful institution.
Step 10: Implement Effective Education Programs and Policies
As a Director of Education, one of your main responsibilities would be implementing effective education programs and policies.
This involves identifying the needs of the educational institution and designing and developing programs that address those needs.
You would also need to create policies that ensure the smooth operation of the institution and the delivery of high-quality education.
You may need to collaborate with other professionals in the institution, such as teachers, principals, and administrators, to understand the challenges they face in delivering education and the resources they need.
Your programs and policies should strive to enhance the learning environment and improve student outcomes.
It’s also your responsibility to ensure these programs and policies comply with state and federal education laws and regulations.
You may need to regularly review and update them to ensure they remain relevant and effective in the changing educational landscape.
Monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of these programs and policies would be another crucial part of your role.
This involves collecting and analyzing data on student performance, teacher performance, and other relevant metrics.
Based on your findings, you may need to make necessary adjustments to your programs and policies.
Furthermore, you may have to present these programs and policies to a board of directors or other decision-makers.
This often requires excellent communication and persuasion skills to convince them of the merits of your proposals.
Lastly, a key part of implementing effective education programs and policies is to keep up with the latest research and developments in the field of education.
This ensures that your institution is always at the forefront of educational best practices.
Step 11: Establish Good Relations with Staff, Students, and Parents
In a leadership role such as Director of Education, fostering healthy relationships with everyone in the educational community is crucial.
This includes staff, students, and parents.
Developing strong relationships with staff is an important first step.
As a director, your role involves guiding, advising and supporting staff to ensure they can provide the best possible education to students.
Regularly communicate with staff members to understand their challenges and needs.
Encourage open, honest feedback and create an environment where they feel comfortable sharing their opinions.
Involving students in the decision-making processes wherever possible is also beneficial.
Listen to their concerns, aspirations, and ideas, and consider them when making decisions.
This will help to cultivate a student-centered learning environment and increase student engagement.
Maintaining open lines of communication with parents is equally important.
They are key stakeholders in their children’s education, and their input can offer valuable insights.
Regularly update them about school policies, updates, and the progress of their child.
Establishing these relationships can be a lengthy process, but it can significantly contribute to creating a supportive, inclusive, and productive educational environment.
Step 12: Constantly Evaluate and Improve Education Systems
As a Director of Education, one of your key responsibilities will be to constantly evaluate and improve the education systems within your institution or organization.
This process requires a continuous cycle of assessment, feedback, and improvement.
Start by critically analyzing the existing curriculum, teaching methods, and student achievement results.
You should be able to identify areas of strength as well as those that need improvement.
Use different evaluation tools such as student feedback, teacher evaluations, and data analysis to get a comprehensive overview of the system’s performance.
Once you have identified the areas that need improvement, develop a strategic plan to address these issues.
This could involve modifying the curriculum, implementing new teaching methods, or providing additional resources to improve student learning outcomes.
It’s important to involve all stakeholders – teachers, students, parents, and community members – in this process to ensure the plan is holistic and addresses all concerns.
Ensure that changes are implemented effectively by regularly monitoring progress and adjusting the plan as necessary.
Remember, improvement is a continuous process, and as a Director of Education, you must always be open to learning, adapting, and innovating.
Regularly attend professional development workshops, education conferences, and keep abreast of the latest trends and research in the field of education to ensure you’re providing the best possible education system for your students.
Finally, remember to celebrate successes along the way.
Recognizing the hard work and dedication of students and staff can boost morale and foster a positive learning environment.
Director of Education Roles and Responsibilities
The Director of Education is responsible for the planning, development, and implementation of educational programs and services.
They oversee all aspects of an institution’s educational activities and ensure that the educational standards are met.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Educational Leadership
- Develop and implement educational strategies and programs.
- Set educational standards and goals and establish policies and procedures for educational activities.
- Oversee the educational staff, including teachers and administrators.
Curriculum Development
- Guide the development and implementation of curriculum plans.
- Ensure the curriculum aligns with the institution’s objectives and meets the needs of students.
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the curriculum and make necessary improvements.
Staff Management
- Recruit, hire, and train educational staff.
- Evaluate staff performance and provide feedback and coaching.
- Organize professional development programs and workshops for staff.
Student Learning and Achievement
- Monitor student performance and implement programs to improve student achievement.
- Address student learning issues and work with staff to develop solutions.
- Promote a positive learning environment for students.
Quality Assurance
- Ensure all educational programs and activities meet quality standards.
- Implement and oversee quality assurance processes.
- Monitor and report on the quality of education.
Budget Management
- Develop and manage the education department’s budget.
- Allocate resources effectively to support educational activities.
- Ensure financial resources are used efficiently and effectively.
Stakeholder Communication
- Communicate with parents, staff, students, and other stakeholders on education matters.
- Develop and implement communication strategies to enhance stakeholder engagement.
Policy and Regulation Compliance
- Ensure compliance with educational laws, regulations, and policies.
- Maintain knowledge of current educational trends and legal requirements.
Community and Public Relations
- Represent the institution to the community and public.
- Build relationships with community leaders, government officials, and other stakeholders.
Continuous Improvement
- Lead efforts for continuous improvement in education delivery.
- Promote innovation and the use of technology in education.
Strategic Planning
- Develop and implement strategic plans for the education department.
- Align educational strategies with the institution’s mission and vision.
What Does a Director of Education Do?
A Director of Education is a high-ranking executive in educational institutions such as schools, colleges, or universities, as well as non-profit organizations and businesses that provide educational services.
They are responsible for developing and implementing educational standards and curriculum within the institution.
They work closely with other educators, administrators, and staff to ensure the curriculum aligns with the goals of the institution and adheres to local, state, and national education laws and regulations.
Directors of Education also oversee the hiring, training, and support of teachers and other educational staff.
They work to foster a positive learning environment and ensure that all students have access to the resources and support they need to succeed acadically.
In addition to their role in curriculum development and personnel management, Directors of Education often play a major part in the institution’s strategic planning.
They assist in setting goals, establishing budgets, and determining how resources will be allocated to meet the institution’s educational objectives.
Directors of Education may also engage with parents, community members, and other stakeholders to receive feedback and address any concerns related to the institution’s educational programs and policies.
In some cases, Directors of Education are responsible for implementing and managing educational technology, overseeing after-school programs, or coordinating special education services.
Their goal is to ensure the highest quality of education and educational experience for all students in their charge.
Essential Director of Education Skills
- Leadership: As a Director of Education, providing guidance and direction to staff, students, and various stakeholders is crucial. This role requires strong leadership skills, including decision-making, strategic planning, and team management.
- Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are necessary for delivering clear messages, fostering open dialogue, and managing conflicts. These skills are also needed in interactions with teachers, students, parents, and the community.
- Strategic Planning: A Director of Education must develop and implement educational strategies that align with the institution’s objectives. They should be able to anticipate future trends and needs in education and adapt strategies accordingly.
- Curriculum Development: Understanding and implementing the best educational practices, and developing comprehensive curriculum programs based on student needs and educational standards is necessary.
- Education Administration: Knowledge of education administration principles, including budgeting, human resources, facility management, and legal issues, is vital for this role.
- Student Advocacy: Advocating for students’ needs and ensuring a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment is a fundamental responsibility of the Director of Education.
- Policy Development and Implementation: Developing, implementing, and ensuring compliance with educational policies is a critical skill. This includes understanding local and national education regulations and standards.
- Teacher Evaluation: Having the ability to assess teacher performance, provide constructive feedback, and support professional development is essential.
- Team Building: Fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment that encourages teamwork and mutual respect is crucial. This also includes conflict resolution and mediation skills.
- Data Analysis: The ability to analyze and interpret educational data to improve student outcomes and school performance is a necessary skill. This can guide decision-making and strategic planning.
- Community Relations: Building strong relationships with parents, community organizations, and other stakeholders to support the school’s mission and programs is important.
- Adaptability: The field of education is continuously evolving. Directors of Education must be adaptable and open to change, ready to implement new teaching methods, technologies, and educational policies.
- Technology: Proficiency in using educational technology tools, including learning management systems, student data systems, and digital communication platforms is necessary in today’s digital age.
- Teaching Experience: Having a background in teaching provides a practical understanding of classroom dynamics, student learning styles, and effective instructional strategies.
- Continuous Learning: The Director of Education must be committed to continuous learning to stay updated on new educational research, teaching methodologies, and technology tools.
Director of Education Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Classroom Teacher
The journey to becoming a Director of Education begins in the classroom.
As a teacher, you’ll play a vital role in shaping young minds.
Your responsibilities may include planning lessons, assessing students’ abilities, and fostering a nurturing learning environment.
Here are some tips for success in this role:
- Continuous Learning: Stay abreast with the latest educational theories and teaching methodologies.
- Classroom Management: Master the art of managing a diverse group of students and creating an inclusive classroom environment.
- Relationship Building: Develop strong relationships with students, parents, and other educators.
The Ascent: Department Head or Curriculum Coordinator
With experience and a proven track record, you could move into a leadership role within a school, such as a Department Head or Curriculum Coordinator.
You’ll be responsible for overseeing a specific subject area or the school’s curriculum as a whole.
Here’s how to thrive in this stage:
- Leadership: Learn to manage a team of teachers and drive them towards common educational goals.
- Curriculum Planning: Develop a deep understanding of curriculum design and implementation.
- Communication: Effective communication with teachers, parents, and administrators is essential in this role.
Reaching New Heights: School Principal or Administrator
The next step on your career journey could be a role such as a School Principal or Administrator.
In this role, you’ll be tasked with the overall management of a school or a group of schools.
To excel in this role:
- Strategic Planning: Develop and implement strategic plans for the school or district.
- Community Engagement: Foster relationships with the local community and stakeholders.
- Financial Management: Learn to manage the school or district’s budget effectively.
Beyond the Horizon: Superintendent or Chief Academic Officer
As your career progresses, you may step into district-level roles such as Superintendent or Chief Academic Officer.
These roles involve overseeing multiple schools, setting educational standards, and working closely with school boards.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Policy Development: Drive the creation and implementation of educational policies.
- Leadership: Inspire and motivate a large team of administrators and educators.
- Advocacy: Advocate for your district’s needs at the local, state, and national level.
Pinnacle of Success: Director of Education
The pinnacle of an educational career is the role of a Director of Education.
In this role, you’ll oversee and manage the educational policy and curriculum standards for a large district, a state, or even at a national level.
You’ll be responsible for ensuring the highest quality of education, making critical decisions, and managing a large team of educators and administrators.
Director of Education Salary
Entry-Level Director of Education
- Median Salary: $50,000 – $70,000 per year
- Entry-level Directors of Education typically have 0-2 years of experience in educational leadership roles and hold master’s degrees in education or related fields.
Mid-Level Director of Education
- Median Salary: $70,000 – $90,000 per year
- Mid-level Directors of Education have 2-5 years of experience and generally are responsible for the development and implementation of educational policies and programs in their institutions.
Senior Director of Education
- Median Salary: $90,000 – $130,000 per year
- Senior Directors of Education possess 5+ years of experience and often play a key role in strategic planning, budgeting, and staff development in educational settings.
Chief Director of Education / Education Program Manager
- Median Salary: $130,000 – $170,000+ per year
- These roles require a high level of experience and often involve overseeing multiple education programs, developing strategic plans, and ensuring compliance with educational laws and standards.
Superintendent / Vice Chancellor of Education
- Median Salary: $150,000 – $220,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience in educational leadership and often involve making significant decisions regarding the administration and operational policies of an entire school district or university.
Director of Education Work Environment
Directors of Education often work in educational institutions such as universities, colleges, private or public schools, and educational non-profit organizations.
They may also find employment in government agencies related to education and training.
Their work environment is usually office-based, but they also often visit classrooms, attend meetings, and participate in educational conferences and workshops.
This role typically involves collaborating with teachers, administrators, students, and parents to ensure educational goals are met.
The work schedule of a Director of Education is typically full-time and may extend beyond regular office hours due to administrative responsibilities, meetings, and school events.
They may also need to travel occasionally for conferences and seminars.
With significant experience in educational leadership, a Director of Education may move into higher executive positions or consultancy roles, or they might choose to apply their skills in a different educational setting.
FAQs About Becoming a Director of Education
What qualifications do I need to become a Director of Education?
The specific qualifications may vary depending on the institution, but generally, you need to have an advanced degree in education, such as a Master’s or Doctorate.
Additionally, you should have several years of experience in the education sector, preferably in a leadership role.
Knowledge of current educational trends, curriculum development, budgeting, and staff management are also crucial.
Soft skills such as excellent communication, strategic planning, and decision-making are necessary.
What is the career path to become a Director of Education?
The career path to becoming a Director of Education often involves starting as a teacher or an administrator in an educational institution.
With experience and further education, you may progress into roles like Department Chair, Assistant Principal, or Principal.
Along the way, it’s important to gain experience in leadership and management roles.
Earning an advanced degree, such as a Master’s or Doctorate in Education, can also pave the way to becoming a Director of Education.
Can I become a Director of Education without a teaching background?
While it is possible to become a Director of Education without a teaching background, it’s important to note that most institutions prefer candidates with hands-on teaching experience.
This is because a Director of Education needs to understand the teaching process, curriculum development, and the overall educational environment to make informed decisions.
However, if you have significant experience in educational administration or a related field, these credentials may also be considered.
Is the role of a Director of Education stressful?
The role of a Director of Education can be challenging and stressful, as it involves overseeing the educational programs of an institution, managing staff, dealing with budget constraints, and making crucial decisions that impact the learning environment.
However, it can also be incredibly rewarding to shape the educational strategies of an institution and contribute to the development of students’ learning experiences.
What is the employment outlook for a Director of Education?
The employment outlook for a Director of Education is generally favorable.
As educational standards continue to evolve and the need for effective educational leadership increases, the demand for Directors of Education is expected to grow.
However, competition for these positions can be strong, as they are often senior-level roles.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Embarking on the journey to become a Director of Education is no easy task, but it’s undeniably gratifying.
Equipped with the correct skills, qualifications, and tenacity, you’re well on your way to making a significant impact in the realm of education.
Remember, the journey may be demanding, but the opportunities for growth and influence are boundless. Your leadership could spearhead the next revolutionary shift in education, transforming the way we teach, learn, and grow.
So, take that initial leap. Immerse yourself in continuous learning. Connect with industry experts. And most importantly, never stop advocating for quality education.
Because the world is waiting for what you can contribute.
And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on beginning or advancing your career as a Director of Education, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.
Curiously Compelling Careers: The Weirdest Jobs Out There
Unconquered by AI: Careers That Celebrate Human Capabilities
Love Your Work: The Most Enjoyable Jobs That Don’t Feel Like Work
Own Your Time: The Most Flexible Careers Available Today
Skyrocket Your Income from Home: Remote Jobs That Are Pure Gold!
