For all those in need of encouragement, renewed strength, sense of pride in what we do, not to mention a good cry…
You must take the time to watch PBS’s Point Of View documentary, The Principal Story. It is the story of two principals and their daily struggles to improve their schools over the course of a year. It is definitely worth 55 minutes of your time. I missed it last Tuesday but I am very thankful I found it online. There are also many other valuable links on the Principal Story site. I especially liked the Top Ten Advice to Principals Starting Their First Year by Kerry Purcell (one of the featured principals in the documentary). Watch, be blessed, and let me know what you think!
The site also contains a quote from Arne Duncan, U.S. Secretary of Education: “We have no good schools without good principals.” What do you think? When all is said and done, does the success or lack of success begin and end with the principal?
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15 years ago
Your site is fodder for my brain today. The quote listed by Duncan challenges some of the philosophy you and I have shared over the years: "it doesn't matter who sits in the front office, because we are going to do the best we can" and so far we have been successful (at least, based on student achievement). Now, here you go with the quote...and I am really starting to give it some thought. I will definitely get back to you when I have mulled it around some more!
ReplyDeleteI am blown away by the video! Made me really compare and contrast the leadership of these two principals with what I am currently experiencing at our school....very thought-provoking stuff here!
ReplyDeleteI also found the comments about the video very interesting.
I will see Mr. Arne Duncan in Washington, DC in about 6 weeks. I wasn't really interested until I read the quote on your page.....I think I might enjoy his speach. Let's don't forget who is in front of children each day making the difference....however, without good leadership, waters can get out of control and sweep away the road. Great Blog!!
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