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Anyone heard of the Select Card?
Anybody use iReady Reading program
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My ideal principal is someone approachable, someone I feel I can have a conversation with about pretty much anything work-related. He/she is kind, open-minded, has a sense of humor, and doesn't take himself/herself too seriously. Most importantly, the ideal principal puts the needs of the students first, and to do that, he or she must take care of the school staff. Treating teachers and other staff members with respect and integrity is the key to having a successful school. When the staff feels like they have someone in the building who supports them, they are happy to come to school and do their jobs--and everyone--students, teachers, administrators, parents, and the community--benefits.
The ideal principal is someone who has done the job, knows the job, and lets others do their job. She needs to be accessible but authoritative. She should be friendly, but nobody's friend. When faculty and staff are criticized, the principal should begin the process firmly on the employee's side, but be willing and able to take necessary action to address a problem. Those are just a few attributes that came to mind immediately.
Rising Star
I always love asking for a friend questions! Lol. The fact that you’ve asked this question gives me hope that you will grow and last a long time in this position. I’m a list person, as anyone who knows me on this site can attest to, so I’ll list qualities of what I think make a good principal. (In no specific order.)
1. Be approachable even if you’re busy.
2. Stand behind your staff with parents. I’m not saying teachers never make mistakes, just don’t throw your teachers under the bus, regardless.
3. Be flexible. If teachers need to work early or work late because of a doctors appointment, let them. Their work will get done.
4. Make sure when corresponding with teachers, parents, or community, your letter is accurate with correct dates. My principal always messed this up. It’s embarrassing for staff. Have the English teachers proofread. I did for my principal all the time.
5. Don’t play favorites. Other teachers resent the perks favorites get.
6. Offer compliments and encourage teachers and students.
7. Motivate your staff to do their best. One year my principal offered “Get out of jail free card” which could be used once every nine weeks to leave for the day when kids did. Attendance rewards etc.
8. Recognize seniority. We’ve worked long and hard to get some perks.
9. Be present when your students and teachers arrive and leave the building. Just say hi or goodbye.
10. Please don’t have long pointless meetings that could have been taken care of by email.
11. Be prepared when you present info to your staff.
12. Recognize that some teachers will have more experience than you and listen to their ideas.
13. Ask your staff for help if you need it.
14. Respect your staff and they will respect you.
15. Don’t give your staff busy work on in-service days.
16. Smile, it helps!