Are You a Successful Principal / Head Teacher? (Part 1)

Image: Hermiston.k12.or.us

There are challenges that come with being a school principal. Majority of the people with this post are not well equipped to handle the pressure. The scope of this principal’s job is wide. They have to deal with almost everything related to the students, parents and teachers. They are the major decision maker in the institution.

Doing things differently makes a successful principal. Just as we have it in other field, there are very successful principals and we have those who don’t have the necessary skills to pull things off. Many of our school principals are in the middle of these two groups. The good principals possess a clear decision making mind and leadership quality that aid their success. They put into use different strategies that make themselves and those working with them successful.

Employ Good Teachers

Employing qualified teachers lessens the stress associated with a principal’s job in almost every way. Good teachers provide the students with quality education and communicate with the parents in the best way and they make sure that the students are well disciplined. These are what reduce the pressure on the principal.

Being a principal, you want to make sure the school is equipped with teachers who know their job. You want to boast of teachers who are fully committed in all aspect of their job. You even want teachers who are willing to go beyond bars to make sure no student is left behind academically. To be candid, having good teachers around you makes you a better principal and allow you concentrate more on more important things on the job.

Be Exemplary

You are the leader on the school; therefore you should act in that capacity. Every other person in the school will look up to you. They should have something to learn from you on a daily basis. When it comes to hard work, you should be in the fore front. Be approachable, never show any sign of weakness and be optimistic. Show respect to everyone; understand that people can never be the same. Be a complete professional. Communication, Organization and Efficiency should always be fundamental. Be the first to resume and the last to leave.

Think Outside the Box

Allow yourself and the teachers to explore, never limit yourselves. You are a problem solver. Therefore, you need to put your resources into best use. Never disregard your teachers’ ideas.

Work With People

You need be a psychologist. As a good principal, you need to read people, know what motivates them. Working with people includes working with your community. Be socially responsible; give something back to the community. This can be achieved based on value you place on feedbacks.

Read on as we conclude this discussion in my next post. Principals, I will be looking forward to your comments.

Thanks.