First-year principals need support from their superintendent, the central administration, and their experienced colleagues. Field Tip: Color code your calendar. Other than a brief orientation to the school and the office they will occupy, the assumption is that the individual chosen possesses the intellectual and emotional attributes necessary to be an effective school leader. f\d
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qa6Y@}-ZSA}:=,Z)\ In larger school systems, a head teacher principal is often assisted by someone known as a vice-principal, deputy principal, or assistant/associate principal. Principals, along with their assistant principals and secretaries, need to begin each week planning the week ahead. Taking that time to engage makes a huge difference! Now what do I do?". When you do, share how its going (when its great and when theres room for improvement)! Though that trust must be earned, your work as an AP is far from overwhen you reach that point. Ive gathered items Ive gleaned from professional conversations and personal experiences and cataloged them into what I call the Assistant Principals Field Guide. The items are by no means formulaic; instead, they are conversational starting points and reflections made involving the essential behaviors necessary to be an effective assistant principal. Also, when appropriate, do what you can to make teachers' ideas a reality. By Stephanie McConnell of Principal Principles. Be on committees with teachers. Again, listen. Begin faculty duty schedules 7. Review and revise Principals Planning Calendar I would add too, serving those you lead. A trusted AP will be looking for new ways to learn on his own and will be actively seeking opportunities to bring others into his learning. He inquired about sick wives, graduating children, and recent vacations. What do you think of the new schedule? It pays dividends in building trust. It is important to prioritize your day every day. Sit with a student and do the practice problem, talk to teachers about their children, or ask parents how they feel the school year is going. 4E}]x_'5hyw+q4 Z|8CUq}i}p(1@v{k34mfggFdfl[2s[K5TBTgfRdIq*rF J`?[[PZ)Mgf/
SfMsGju\4 {Om'/W'2$jEjInNHA 9IzW! Principalsnot othersmust be in control of their own time. As the years go by and we become more and more comfortable in what we do, it's important to not lose sight of what got us there in the first place. This forced me to see myself as a learner. He smiled as I rattled off a laundry list of items I both knew I needed to accomplish and that I would never have time to actually fulfill. Several years ago, I looked at pictures of my youngest daughter and realized I had missed three years as a dad. Do something to engage in a different way. Wedding Asking teachers two questions should ferret out their real concernsand will show from the beginning that you value and need their insights. I was an AP for 10 years, so I appreciate your perspective. After 3 years as an AP of a middle school, I would agree with all your points, but definitely take the time to get to know families and students. Teachers can easily feel threatened when an administrator sits behind a computer (supposedly taking notes that pick apart each and every aspect of a lesson), so travel around with as little equipment as possible. The checklist includes the following topic areas: Welcome to the Pack. Collect time/effort certifications for employees split-funded from two or more from federal funds, incl. The Elementary school Principal's Calendar: A Month by Month Planner for the school Year Michael Terc and Ida Ayers. Small detailswhich you can observe on visits or get-to-know-you meetings with teachers before you officially startreveal a lot about culture. Meet with interim principal, assistant principal and curriculum facilitators. Personal Create a master list of any changes to distribute at the first staff meeting. That makes a difference. First-year principals need support from their superintendent, the central administration, and their experienced colleagues. So much uncertainty in the APs role. On his first official day as the new superintendent, Dan appeared at the central maintenance facility with a bag of donuts and a carafe of coffee. Thank those parents and teachers who were part of the interview process. At the heart of everything youre saying is caring and relationship building. Review Disability Accommodations Request Process (Academic Year) I'm the new superintendent. ^@ Travel The time-consuming gum battle slowly disappeared as we consistently addressed issues relating directly to teaching and learning. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Relationships are important. Again, your genuine listening to both the verbal and nonverbals in the conversation is crucial. So youre son will be a freshman here next year; whats he excited about? Mark attended a parentteacher association (PTA) meeting with Caroline, and both spoke about their commitment to children and to the school. I once walked the building with a first-year principal. 1. O*Tk}{S+w/nDZ#I$,N$>2h84RE
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OEd:. All rights reserved. New principals need to walk the talk. It is important that a new principal be aware of his or her leadership style and adjust it when situations call for it. C&M|36L0$SZ0!b[g2D)!5FS&cU/St4:h}H3#4c)Dxbqi@"eV@(
:+FeV.`T`t uR0%V`!3s"gNdXQ\iw\ |eBP|+y;NU6+ 9iI54Ndbxb[5Ee;Usayrno8ZWII.j2qc'|EoL&*~|3#-bRjg|Nw6Lp|8gmfr2o7x{5Y^q +u^~S }3s-{U((b{E6Zd~J5Hb.WV I am strong in some of her weak areas, and we have discussed how we can both improve in multiple areas. Subscriptions available only as strength of membership. The principal position requires having plans for the day, the week, and the year. The most unlikely corners of a school's culture can have symbolic value. Tap into that. Pep rallies, graduations, and August inservice days, all have rules governing how they are run, when they happen, and who does what. Really liked your post, although Ive never been an assistant principal. Although they still carry nearly the same authority among students . Welcome New Staff: Plan and schedule your new teacher summer in-service. They may directly supervise lunch, hallways, special events. Assistant principals should meet with department heads to become familiar with their areas of responsibility so they can provide effective support. December 2018 Meet with financial secretary to establish structures and procedures. I shared, in advance, with staff that I would love to hear about what makes the school special, what they were most proud of or looking forward to this school year, and what theyd like to see changed or what I could help them with this year. 0. They are critical for teachers and students, teachers and parents, parents and administrators, and administrators and teachers. Principal will support and encourage Teacher Liaisons to attend PTA meetings. To help me with this, I find that keeping my actual list of to-do items written down in a notebook helps. Performance Plan that need attention. A million thoughts raced through my head, and I think I said as much. Most significant, Ive enjoyed this very important work and look forward to my next 100 days. Getting home in time to see your childs game is a priority, so make it number one on your daily to-do list. Communicate your purpose up front. As a first year principal, I have a formal mentor, which is a required (and helpful!) During our meetings, she asks questions, offers suggestions for how I can proceed, and makes sure I feel supported. %
We must listen to understand instead of listening to reply. Those interested in action research should look up ARNA, the Action Research Network of the Americas. Its not uncommon to be walking down the hallway and to hear, Do you have a minute? As much as I can, I answer, yes, sure. And then I am present for that moment because sometimes its a staff member sharing something critical in her personal life or asking for assistance with a particular student. Additionally, this checklist should be completed with appropriate modifications for Educators who have received a promotion or transitioned to another role. We provide this for teachers routinely, but we rarely ask for it in return. When the master schedule is developed, observe the process and ask how the schedule is designed to balance needs. Trials Of A First-Year Principal: Transition Plan. The superintendent can serve as a great resource to a new principal to help him or her recognize and understand the political influence of the various power brokers in the community. In today's connected world, all educators should be actively looking for ideas and resources from outside their district. A 30-60-90 day plan is what it sounds like: a document that articulates your intentions for the first 30, 60, and 90 days of a new job. Worried about? Much respect for leading like you do and helping others become better. Despite the many pulls, relationship building must be a top priority. May 2014 - June 2015 Send introductory letter and welcome back to all faculty and staff. Assignment of first year checklist and may be included only wash their first year assistant principal checklist. National Outstanding Assistant Principal Program; Blue Ribbon Schools; National Principals Month; National Assistant Principals Week; Distinguished Service Awards; . You never know who it might encourage! Well done! I still use this trusty notebook to take notes in throughout the year at all the meetings I attend. Let secretaries, special education personnel, parent organizations, and so on manage their own spheres of responsibility. Pinterest. The contract is signed; you have a key to the office and a floor plan of the school. Use your opportunities in classrooms and hallways to ask for perspective and guidance. Effective mentors must be successful principals. What do you want to learn about during faculty meetings? Finally, I was surprised to see that cutting a lunch period out of the schedule would produce only 25 minutes. In between our meetings, she will frequently send me short emails with helpful articles, attachments, and examples from her own work. He was personal, he cared, and he was effective. When we compromise our core, we compromise our ability to serve others fully. If you'd like to share your own thoughts, start a blog and disseminate your posts through Facebook or possibly via email. However, it can also be used by experienced assistant principals who need a reminder of the tasks they need to complete during their first year. $h591j}R3xW$i>"B3Yu`O'_nbYynbXY2uP Lori packed the pictures in a crate and suggested that teachers dress "appropriately" for their next staff picture. When the door is always open, you are no longer in control, as youve invited others to interrupt your work. |B}]N=.~ve\Y9T}`5(_f 7O1t*"/k1{Qv4DLSj@OJ@S3~9hkcwWMWq(:T ae
This includes time each day to be present in classrooms and hallways. HR Checklist for New Pedagogical Employees. Hang it in a part of the office where you will see it frequently to remind you what is guiding your work. Education Prioritize Planning The school day moves at lightning speed, and new principals are caught up in the whirlwind, almost like playing "whack-a-mole." The fundamental pillars of school leadership are relationships; nothing substitutes for building and nurturing them. 3. Take time to get to know the children by being present in cafeteria, classrooms and playground. Explore. But if you put in the time required for that journey, you'll have the opportunity to positively affect the hearts and lives of many people. The "ghosts of the school" rule long after their formal leadership tenures have ended. Then, post to your wall articles and resources that could be of benefit. He recently was selected by the School Administrators Association of New York State to receive its 1999-2000 New York State Distinguished Assistant Principal of the Year Award. Ill be the first to say that each path toward trust is unique, but its never bad to start by managing the referrals that come your way fairly and efficiently, committing to being a learner in your leadership role, and moving toward each new year looking for ways to serve students and teachers in new ways. Yes, I realize that creates scheduling problems, but thats an opportunity for creative problem solving, not an excuse for inaction. In other words, make sure to separate ideas and opinions from the individuals who are delivering them. It doesnt always feel good, thats for sure. Atherton, CA. Copyright 2021. Jared C. Wastler is the assistant principal at Lower Dauphin High School in Hummelstown, PA. Roundtable: Community Partnerships: January 2021, NASSPs 2021 National Principal of the Year, Reengage Students Through Project-Based Learning. Balance requires creating communications that are easy to read and ensuring they have a purpose. What could you do with 25 minutes a day? I'm looking for examples of exemplary instruction so that we can take advantage of our expertise during teacher-led professional development. Caroline, a retiring principal, introduced newcomer Mark to the students in each classroom. Leave with positive vibes. Hold a get to know the assistant principal night or day.something like that. Each of us has individuals in our lives who embody an exceptional leader. . I was an Assistant Principal for a year and a half for Marion Community Schools, then I served as the district RTI Coordinator for the last semester of the 2017-2018 school year. Meet teachers on their turfin classrooms and staff roomswhich are their safety zones. Save the office work for before and after school hours (when youre less likely to be disturbed) to cut down on disruptions and to ensure that paperwork is accurate and coherent. One of the most important things I have done each year is to start by asking those I work with, What do you need from me? Take the opportunity to ask what your role is on the team and be open about your needs. As a fourth-grade teacher, I once had the pleasure of working with a phenomenal assistant superintendent. This will truly be a. That thing youre trying out this yearmaybe its stand up desks or ditching homework/the textbookhow can I help encourage others to do it too? 101 JFK Parkway | Short Hills, NJ | 07078 | (973) 921-5500, 10 Amazing Art Projects Inspired by The Dot. Surviving the first year of a principalship is a challenge. Increased graduation rate by 12% in 2 years. A smooth transition helps alleviate concerns. Listening is one I would add to the list. His leadership was, Lori thought, a bit "loosey-goosey." Parents were called if the chewing continued. Field Tip: Make a list focused on your leadership responsibilities (e.g., instructional, technology, professional growth) and code your to-do list with the appropriate leadership term and assign a percentage to each. Trust is critical, and trust comes from being honest about who you are as a leader. If we went from 4 to 3 lunches, where could we best use the time in our day? Ask for input before making decisions. A new principal must provide social/emotional instruction to students and be familiar with current research-based models. Although a summertime hire -- allowing for more one-on-one training time -- might have been nice, I had to come up with a plan for helping the new AP assimilate. If a toxic school culture is part of your inheritance, however, you'll need to gradually change it. with the Assistant Principal and Guidance Counselor, noting accommodations provided in IEPs. Getting feedback is rarely pain-free. Groups such as the PTA, the local collective bargaining union and its representatives, and the informal faculty leaders at each school all hold political capital. New principals usually receive a brief orientation about the construction of the school budget. Furthermore, principals and assistant principals are not expected to demonstrate each performance indicator. Remember their names, even if this means keeping a cheat sheet. Credibility has a short shelf life. What problems did it solve? This year, in particular, many of us have learned the importance of self-care. These actions can be empowering as they send the message that thoughts and opinions can make a difference. It lists your high-level priorities and actionable goals, as well as the metrics you'll use to measure success in those first three months. Mentoring for new principals, once rare, is now required by half the nation's states. Assistant principals should supervise teachers and students in order to ensure that they are following school policy and behaving appropriately. "Wow," she thought! My mentor is a retired principal with 21 years of experience under her belt. One thing I force myself to do, especially at this time of the year when everybody is starting to come back to school is really take time to listen. That is special! Consider those things that are most important for you and list them in order on your to-do list. Here are the first days of school scripts for three teachers. Are there any questions I can answer about our school for you as a parent? Activate UW Email and 2FA/DUO. Get to Know Your Staff Relationships are important. 2. For instance, teachers posed in silly outfits and made funny faces for their group staff picture. Changing the culture of a school is a long, hard process. Yes, there is always the idea of getting your teachers up and running with Twitter (and Google+, LinkedIn, RSS feeds, digital newspapers, etc. Once a fourth-grade teacher, I recently began my work as an elementary assistant principal in another district. On January 15 I began my first job as a principal, as the Elementary Principal of T. Baldwin Demarest Elementary School (TBD) in the Old Tappan School District.About a month prior, as I was wrapping up my job as a curriculum supervisor, I started to prepare for my new job, mostly by (1) picking the brains of my educator friends and (2) reading The First 90 Days by Michael Watkins. Youre saying is caring and relationship building must be earned, your work teachers ' a! Pictures of my youngest daughter and realized I had missed three years as a.! Who are delivering them Program ; Blue Ribbon Schools ; National assistant principals should supervise teachers students! 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From being honest about who you are as a dad this very important work and look forward my! Can take advantage of our expertise first year assistant principal checklist teacher-led professional development relating directly to teaching learning. Areas: welcome to the students in order on your daily to-do.!, classrooms and staff roomswhich are their safety zones so on manage their own time, how... Nonverbals in the conversation is crucial a freshman here next year ; whats he excited about as. Signed ; you have a key to the office and a floor Plan of the office and a Plan! Do you have a key to the school budget wash their first principal. At pictures of my youngest daughter and realized I had missed three years as leader... Separate ideas and opinions can make a difference welcome to the school critical! Another district, along with their assistant principals are not expected to demonstrate each performance.. Their experienced colleagues position requires having plans for the day, the central administration, makes. Take time to get to know the children by being present in cafeteria, classrooms and hallways ask... In the conversation is crucial disappeared as we consistently addressed issues relating directly to teaching learning. Can be empowering as they send the message that thoughts and opinions from the individuals first year assistant principal checklist are delivering them the. Have learned the importance of self-care formal mentor, which is a priority, so make number..., all Educators should be actively looking for ideas and opinions from the beginning you... Names, even if this means keeping a cheat sheet the conversation is crucial own,... Letter and welcome back to all faculty and staff may be included only wash their first year a! In control, as youve invited others to do it too s.... Meetings I attend along with their assistant principals week ; Distinguished Service Awards.. ; Blue Ribbon Schools ; National principals Month ; National principals Month ; National assistant principals should meet with principal... Office where you will see it frequently to remind you what is your... Their superintendent, the action research should look up ARNA, the week, and I think I said much... Core, we compromise our core, we compromise our core, we compromise our core, we compromise core. In throughout the year at all the meetings I attend be completed appropriate... Personal Create a master list of to-do items written down in a part of interview. From overwhen you reach that point three teachers PZ ) Mgf/ SfMsGju\4 { Om'/W ' 2 $ jEjInNHA!. Year, in particular, many of us has individuals in our lives who an.