Philosophy

The role of an administrator revolves around cultivating the school’s culture, systems, and instruction to create the conditions in which teachers and students can be most successful. I do not intend for my school to be merely good – it will be the best school in existence. To be the best, a principal should:

Lead the Best People

This begins with hard work and creativity to recruit and hire quality teachers and staff. It means taking time, listening, and building relationships. It means understanding what it takes to motivate each of them, from servant leadership to tough conversations.

Just as teachers should challenge each student at an individually appropriate level, principals must challenge their teachers to develop their talents and to do their work with excellence – not least by the principal’s own example.

Create an Ownership Culture

Everyone – from the students to the staff to the teachers to the community – should believe so deeply in the vision of the school that they take the initiative to solve problems, build relationships, and seize opportunities for progress.

Foster a Commitment to Growth

A school leader must believe in the ability of students and teachers to be successful and challenge them to do the same – both academically and in terms of character growth. A principal should never be satisfied with the status quo but should seek out innovative improvements.