October is National Principals Month!

Target 2 – Leadership in a Student Centered Learning Environment
FWSU will foster development of teacher & student leaders who provide innovative opportunities for local and global student-centered learning.

Action Step – Redefine high performance in a student-centered, collaborative,
technologically rich learning environment

Indicator of Success – Creativity and risk-taking will be evident and celebrated as learners embrace new technologies.

Although it may not be an official “Hallmark” holiday, October has been designated as National Principal Month. At FWSU we are extremely proud of the hardworking and dedicated administrators in our schools.

Principals play a pivotal role in the success of every student. Research has shown that a school without a leader committed to success of its students will not succeed to the highest levels. Effective leadership not only matters: it is second only to teaching among school-related factors in its impact on student learning,

How do our Principals achieve this high performance in our schools? First, they set direction – creating a clear course that everyone understands, establishing high expectations and using data to track progress and performance.

Second, they also help the staff in our school professionally develop and grow as educators. Principals look beyond the horizon of the day-to-day and help create conditions where creativity and innovation can occur.

Third, they believe in our students and care for them deeply. Creating a culture that meets the needs of all students is on the top of their priority list every day. Making sure that students reach their full potential is what drives them.

Fourth, they ensure their buildings organizations work. This sets the environment free for teachers and students to achieve their hopes and dreams each and every day. Whether its shoveling the front entrance or fixing a ceiling tile, our Principals want our learning environments and classrooms to be top-notch.

Finally, they take risks. We all know that sometimes new initiatives and practices do not always succeed on the first attempt they practice a Growth Mindset. Not only for themselves, but everyone in the school. They believe our students and staff can be developed through dedication and hard work.