Posted by:
Nancy Vose
University
Boxford, MA

Topic:
Administrative training

Message:
Dennis Sparks references the need for all school members to be learners. What about administrative leadership? Are our schools experiencing a culture of inclusionary function where, for example, a building principal conducts discussion with the staff around substantive issues where teacher input can have an impact?

This mighty look like a principal holding a discussion with a group of teachers, say Math teachers or the building mentors for young teachers. This principal uses the computer, with a projector and the webbing software Inspiration? to brainstorm an issue and articulate potential solutions. For particularly hot issues, the principal records notes reflecting the thoughts of individuals at the meeting. They next day the principal distributes the outline of the discussion with a note summarizing understandings and next steps requesting clarification and additional thoughts. Teachers appreciate the opportunity to be heard and to help in the decision making process.

Do principals have the time, skill and expectation to function in this manner? Are districts offering leadership training for their administrators so they can be effective and inclusionary?

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