Back-to-School Tips for Principals (Part 2)
The new school year is well underway – and hopefully off to a great start. As the principal of your school, the tone you set in these early days serves as the foundation for the months to come. You have likely already established habits that promote an open and friendly atmosphere where your presence is welcoming and well-received.
While you may be focused on offering help and guidance to your teachers and staff members and showing care and concern for your students’ well-being and success, it’s also critical to pay attention to collaboration and learning. This is important not just between faculty members but also between you and your fellow principals.
Three Tips for Collaboration
1. Create Peer Observations for Teachers
Teachers are a critical component to your school and student success. Each teacher brings unique skills developed through education and experience. Encourage your teachers to visit each other’s classrooms to learn from one another. Set up a schedule for regular peer observations and provide a template to organize their observations, thoughts, and feedback. This process allows teachers to support each other and share best practices.
2. Establish a “Site Council” to Gather Input from Various Stakeholders
To create an environment where everyone feels invested in the success of the school community, engage with stakeholders such as teachers, staff members, parents, and students. Create a “site council” made up of representatives from these groups. This council can relay important feedback to you, providing a valuable resource for identifying needs and addressing concerns. Be sure to consider the best ways to respond to feedback to keep communication flowing.
3. Visit Other Schools to Learn New Ideas
Schedule visits to other schools and meet with their principals to gain insight into strategies that work and learn from their experiences. Talk to teachers and staff members at those schools to discover approaches your team may want to consider. Invite those principals and educators to visit your school as well. Building a support network for sharing best practices can enhance collaboration and foster innovation.
Summary
Expanding networks within and beyond your school community will further promote an environment that fosters success for everyone – colleagues, teachers, staff, and students alike. Collaboration, communication, and shared learning opportunities will strengthen your school and support its mission for a productive academic year.
