THE PRACTICE: A school administrator is an educational leader who promotes the success of all students by collaborating with families and community members, responding to diverse community interests and needs, and mobilizing community resources.
Content Presented By:
National Association of Elementary School Principals
Council of Chief State School Officers
The Education Alliance at Brown University

The Policy

Engaged parents, business leaders, members of the neighborhood and other tax-paying citizens may not be essential to student success - but they sure help! All of these people have a stake in the success of the school and the students in it. Thus, school goals must be communicated not just to those who work in the school but to the community as well. Schools must have open and honest communication - a willingness to tell the bad along with the good. In addition, they must provide a warm, non-threatening environment that welcomes community involvement. Those with a stake in the school should have the opportunity to share in the decisions that affect them. This might include the opportunity to support appropriate funding for the school, mentor students, participate on school improvement or site-based decision-making teams, or show support for school activities. In addition, community support systems for the school, including volunteers and business and parent support, should be welcomed and utilized.

This resource is developed and maintained by The Education Alliance at Brown University. Seed funding was provided by the U.S. Department of Education. Send comments to: loom@alliance.brown.edu