Traits of Highly Effective Schools: #1

Elaine K. McEwan writes a book about the qualities and unique characteristics of school that help students get the "Best Education Possible".  Each chapter offers research-based trait and examines its impact on student achievement.  Trait # 1 is strong instructional leadership.

Strong Instructional Leadership

According to McEwan, no matter how effective a principal might be, the challenges of raising the achievement bar are too complex for a solo act to succeed.  On the other hand without an instructional leader to communicate a compelling vision explain a moral imperative for doing the right thing, teachers are not likely to form a committee to improve the school.  The principals charts the course of the school.  They are the key factor to the individual school's success and set the tone.  Principals must convince the students, parents and teachers that all children can learn and improve academically. Below are (3) things strong instructional leaders must accomplish: 

1. They set high expectations for staff and personally

2. They develop teacher leaders

3. They maintain positive attitudes toward students, staff, and parents

When carefully considering the research on effective schools, principal leadership and instructional leadership specifically, is the key factor in students getting the "Best Education Possible".  I certainly hope the school your child attends has a strong instructional leader in charge.  To read more on effective  schools get, 10 Traits of Highly Effective Schools by Elaine K. McEwan.