TL;DR: When hiring new staff, consider those who move your vision forward. Non-teaching staff members (counselors, librarians, paraprofessionals, custodians, etc.) play a big role in developing school culture. Parents and community members are vital to the building of school culture. My assistant principal is involved in a book study for a book that is based on the premise that you … Read More
Posts Beyond the Principal’s Account
TL;DR: Posts beyond the principal’s account should involve all staff and students. Involve all staff when creating posts for social media. Share curriculum information so stakeholders understand what is going on at school. Coordinate with coaches and club sponsors to ensure all groups are being represented equally on social media. Get students involved with sharing news on social media. If … Read More
Getting the Best Out of Our Students in the ‘Worst’ of Times
TL;DR: Getting the best out of our students in the ‘worst’ of times means fostering learning cultures that embrace respectful discussion and discourse, learning the needs of your classroom and school, and providing great instruction. Committing to fostering cultures in schools that embrace diversity will help create future generations that build a better world. Educators have to teach students how … Read More
Schools Need an Instructional Leader
TL;DR: While building school culture is important, principals also need to be instructional leaders who analyze data and have a clear vision, goals for learning, and a commitment to these goals. There are 7 questions to ask that will guide your practice as an instructional leader. “A school without clearly defined goals can be likened to a ship without a … Read More
Hiring the Right People Is Crucial for Your School Culture
TL;DR: It is important to hire the right people who are great people, aligned with your vision, and support you. Consider whether they will buy into your vision and fit with your current staff. Ask deeper questions to find out! As an elementary school principal, I believe reflection on the work we do is key to our success. My entire … Read More