Principals
Education news, analysis, and opinion that focuses on principals and their roles in K-12 schools
Hour by Busy Hour: What a Principal's Day Actually Looks Like
From the time they wake up until they set the alarm at night, school leaders juggle the routine, the unexpected, and the downright bizarre.
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Delivered Sunday morning, this newsletter has essential news, information, and career resources specifically for school leaders.
School & District Management
A Principal Was Put on Leave for Her Election Message. What Leaders Need to Know
Principals have to tread a fine line to avoid getting too political in their role as public school leaders.
Budget & Finance
The G.O.A.T. School Fundraising Idea for Principals. (Really.)
For this season of giving, principals are ditching tried-and-tested methods.
School & District Management
Video
‘I’m Not About Making Excuses’: Lessons From the National Principal of the Year
With this targeted approach, the National Principal of the Year improved student test scores in reading and math.
School & District Management
Video
How This Principal Manages Student Behavior—Without Too Many Rules
Principal Tracie Anderson Swilley brought students on board to make big changes to her school’s culture.
School & District Management
Inside the No-Limits Mindset of the New National Principal of the Year
Tracie Anderson Swilley, a high school principal in South Carolina, was awarded the title for the 2024-25 academic year.
Reading & Literacy
Quiz
Quiz Yourself: How Much Do You Know About Literacy Leadership?
Answer 7 questions about the role of leadership in reading and literacy practices and curriculum.
Reading & Literacy
Video
Implementing New Reading Materials Is Hard. How This Principal Got Buy-In
A NYC principal explains how she implemented the Wit and Wisdom reading curriculum in her school. The first step was teacher buy-in.
School & District Management
This State Is Bucking Gender and Race Trends in School Leadership
A 12-year study in one state shows a major uptick in the diversity of school leaders.
Education Funding
Gun Violence Takes a Toll. We Need More Support, Principals Tell Congress
At a congressional roundtable, school leaders made an emotional appeal for more funds to help schools recover from gun violence.
School & District Management
Opinion
5 Lessons Principals Can Learn From U.S. Presidents About Leadership
What does it take to lead a school in this polarized political climate? Let history be your guide.
School & District Management
Video
How This Principal Protects Her Teachers’ Work-Life Balance
Work-life balance is possible for teachers. School and district leaders play a big role in making it happen.
School & District Management
3 Ways Principals Can Respond to Polarization and Division
The role of a school leader is inherently difficult and conflict-ridden. Here's what they can do to manage tense situations.
School & District Management
Meet the 3 Finalists for National Principal of the Year
All three finalists spoke about the need to lift up their peers.
School & District Management
Opinion
What Principals Get Wrong About Teacher Wellness
“Wellness” needs to offer educators more than just a chance to press pause on their work.