What makes a good principal? It takes a principal

Laura Schubert:

Due to a slew of administrative retirements, 39 schools in the Milwaukee Public Schools system will have new principals this school year. The aptitude of this incoming class of leaders is unarguably pressing in the turbulent wake of the spring's budget showdown and its rippling effects on education.

Principals are charged with the daunting task of cultivating and maintaining school environments that are conducive to learning. Their performance strongly correlates to the ultimate success or failure of their schools.

While it's easy to spot those who excel in the role, it's trickier to pinpoint the attributes that define principals on the high end of the efficacy spectrum. What exactly sets them apart?

Effective principals recognize the value of each employee's role in achieving schoolwide success. They treat staff members as competent professionals, involve them in goal-setting and school improvement plans and delegate key responsibilities as much as plausible.

While they monitor progress to ensure accountability, proficient principals don't fall into the trap of micromanagement. Rather, they articulate high expectations and trust staff members to successfully fulfill their obligations.

Posted by Jim Zellmer at September 5, 2011 1:06 AM
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