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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Help Prevent Teacher Burnout

Posted on March 15, 2022 Written by

Retaining teachers is becoming an increasing problem in many parts of the country. According to one source, by March of last year, 42% of teachers considered leaving or retiring from their current position (Brookings Institute, 2022). And the situation has only worsened since then.

This article suggests five key ways that school leaders can help mitigate this problem. Addressing this issue can be vital because “a faculty that’s empowered to combat burnout is the faculty that will remain loyal to your school, advance your district goals, and bring other qualified candidates to your positive working culture.” (Leichtman, 2021)

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Why Mattering Matters

Posted on January 18, 2022 Written by

“People are the backbone of education, yet the challenges in recent years, coupled with frequent external criticism, has defined the teaching profession more as a problem to be managed rather than a calling to be celebrated.” (Donlan, Wilfong, 2021).

This article takes a look at the important concept of “mattering,” and why it is essential that principals understand and implement it. The article is not only a foundational resource on the topic, but also offers practical strategies and tips on implementation.

In the words of the authors, “Teachers want to feel they matter, both individually and as part of a larger team that has the capacity to make a difference. Teachers also want to feel they are significant to others in meaningful ways.” Helping this happen can have a significant impact on the success of your school.

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For Inspiration …

Posted on December 21, 2021 Written by

With a strong, informed leader, a dedicated staff, and the right curriculum, meaningful school transformation can be a reality … even in the most challenging circumstances.

This short but powerful video tells the story of an inner-city elementary school in New Jersey where 60% of the students performed above grade level in math in 2019 — up from only 3% in 2014. And during the same period, there was an increase from 4% to 50% in reading performance.

In the words of principal, Susanna Tagoe, “”When you see our kids in action, and you see how much brilliance and how capable they are, then you understand not to limit them.” And she reminds us that “A zip code does not determine your ability.”

As we prepare to enter this new year, may you be inspired by the success of this school in the face of overwhelmingly negative odds.

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