Hybrid Learning Study

Posted on March 7, 2023 Written by

There were some interesting findings in a Hybrid Instruction study that came out last month. The authors examined Hybrid Instruction in nine states, and based on what they found, they offer some strong recommendations about what works best when face-to-face instruction isn’t possible.

If you’re an acting principal or superintendent, this background information could be very useful for future decision-making. Although the COVID crisis seems to over and most states are back to face-to-face instruction, who knows what tomorrow might bring? Legislation on this issue has swung back and forth over the past few years, and some even suggested that hybrid instruction might be a solution for the national teacher shortage. So as with most issues, it’s always best to be prepared with data from reputable studies.

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Principal Retention

Posted on February 21, 2023 Written by

Getting (and keeping) good principals is increasingly difficult these days. This five-year study shows that despite what some believe, salaries are far from the only issue. The study also offers some clear take-aways how districts can do a better job of keeping excellent administrators.

While many of you have already experienced some of the issues addressed in this article, it might be useful to share with your superintendent so that they can share it with your school board. It offers solid research support for what most of us already know.

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Building Community

Posted on February 7, 2023 Written by

In our last post, David Arencibia (one of three finalists for NASSP “Principal of the Year”) talked about the importance of setting high standards and establishing a culture of FUN.

Another finalist, Donna Hayward, addresses an equally important aspect of school culture … building a sense of community and family. In this Smart Brief article , she describes her school’s journey and offers several ideas worth emulating.

One of Hayward’s biggest goals this year has been “supporting teachers who are pretty tired, pretty fried,” and letting them know that self-care is vital and that they’re among friends who can relate. The importance of a sense of community should never be underestimated. In her words, “One step at a time, we’ll get through it together!” She believes that this attitude has been a key component in significantly improving outcomes for the students, teachers, and staff at her school.

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A Culture of Fun!

Posted on January 24, 2023 Written by

David Arencibia, one of three finalists for “Principal of the Year” (National Association of Secondary School Principals) says he and his team focus on setting high standards and establishing a culture of FUN! By focusing on the positive instead of problems, Arencibia says the school’s atmosphere is warm, friendly, and challenging. This creates a highly-engaging environment for students, and that is supported by professional development for teachers.

Arencibia says polarizing topics are less of an issue at his school because “we don’t get into those things … because we’re focused on providing the absolute best for each of our students, and that’s a common goal we can all agree on.” 

This article in Smart Brief provides additional details about Arencibia’s unique approach and the process involved in developing “a routine of excellence.”

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