Week 3

    Having the right in leader in place is so important; especially in a school environment. The Principal sets the "tone" within the school and how it functions both internally and externally. I have known some really great principals and some not-so-great principals in my lifetime. The principals that were great were so for several reasons. They modeled many of the characteristics I read about in both the AMLE book and the article: Five Key Responsibilities: The School Principal as Leader... They first held high expectations for the staff, parents, and students. They helped create the mission statement for the school and found ways to carry it out on a daily basis. They made themselves available on a daily basis in any way necessary: phone, in-person, email, etc. 

    Next, they cultivated leadership among the staff, parents, and volunteers in the school. Staff had leadership teams. The volunteers had teams and so did the parent organizations. All teams communicated with the principal on the needs they had and the principal communicated those needs to the school board and other stakeholders. 

    Then they gave opportunities to improve curriculum and instruction methods and resources. They encouraged professional development and research opportunities. They were good managers and made good use of the resources they had available. They collaborated well with the school board, listened to staff needs and parent requests. They wanted to see every child succeed and allowed the staff and teachers to grow. 

    For those principals that were not-so-good, they did not follow the guides above. They often did not communicate well or make themselves available to staff, parents and the board. They did not "raise the bar" on school instruction or create an environment that was welcoming or friendly. They also, did not hire the right staff and teachers to help the school succeed and grow. 

    I have been in a management position before. I know what a difficult position that can be; especially when certain decisions like hiring/firing, managing resources, etc. need to be made. Running a school is like running a business. I enjoy teaching, but do not think that I would like to be a principal. I know that it takes a dedicated person who is able to "wear multiple hats," communicate with all stakeholders efficiently and effectively and help others grow and succeed. I really enjoyed learning more about what it takes to be a great Principal and leader.