Personal Qualities and Essential Practices for Principals

Goosev, T. (2004). 'Help! I'm the principal, now what?' Principal Leadership, 4(9). Retrieved on 19/11/04 from http://www.nassp.org/publications/pl/pl_principal_now_what_0504.cfm

In this short paper, the author describes her personal experiences in turning around a low-performing middle school.

Teacher conversations now focus on teaching strategies, assessments and data, differentiating instruction, meetings standards, and after school interventions … Teachers meet weekly in content-area teams to review common assessment data and make collective plans. The atmosphere is positive and energising and student achievement is climbing. (pp. 1-2)

Goosev proposes four essential qualities of an effective principal.

Vision - To see the ideal learning and working environment.
Knowledge - To be a leading learner.
Passion - To have a burning desire to make a difference for students and persist; taking the disappointments and stress.
Love of service - Desiring to help each student fulfil his or her potential, moulding the organisation.

Goosev accompanies these essential personal qualities with four essential practices:

focusing on standards
promoting effective teaching
maintaining a professional learning community
creating a pyramid of interventions and support for students.

The author expands upon the qualities and practices, and provides encouragement for principals trying to make a difference.