Survival Tips

According to the Learning Policy Institute (2019), the public school principal turnover rate over the past few years has risen to 18 percent … 21 percent in high-poverty schools!

In this pressure cooker that school administration has become, it’s a good idea to step back for a moment and examine your priorities. Or as my old mentor used to say, “Never let the URGENT crowd out the IMPORTANT!”

Here are some brief tips and strategies from experienced principals across the country that should provide relief and help you make your job more focused and productive. Note: These were compiled by ASCD from comments shared on Twitter.

Reference: https://learningpolicyinstitute.org/sites/default/files/product-files/NASSP_LPI_Principal_Turnover_Research_Review_REPORT.pdf

Inspiring Innovation

Located just outside of Phoenix, Zaharis Elementary has received a significant amount of attention for looking beyond test-based accountability to prepare students for a world in which “85% of the jobs of tomorrow haven’t even been invented yet.”

This interview, with principal Michael Oliver, shows how the school’s inquiry-based model is actually weaning some lawmakers away from their love of high-stakes testing, and changing them into champions for change.

How I Lead

How I Lead features school and district leaders recognized for exceptional work. Created by non-profit Chalkbeat, these articles are not only inspirational, but can also be a great source for unique ideas. A great example is this article about a Memphis principal who reads bedtime stories live on Facebook.

Redefining Roles

Working to update perceptions on the role of teachers is a significant task. This article in Edutopia takes a closer look, and offers educational leaders some suggestions on making the process more effective.