Live Broadcast: 5:00 - 6:00 pm Pacific (8:00 - 9:00 pm Eastern)
Good schools have good leaders. A strong principal with a clear vision
creates a powerful learning community for students, teachers and families.
Yet, as schools, communities and students are changing, so is the
role of the principal. Among the many challenges faced by today's
principals are the responsibility for ensuring that all children learn,
our increasingly diverse student population, new standards and assessments,
and growing concerns about safety and discipline.
The principal's first and foremost responsibility is to ensure effective
teaching and learning. As the instructional leader, the principal
makes certain that all elements of the school contribute to student
achievement. To do this, effective principals empower teachers to
be leaders themselves, spend effective time in classrooms and closely
monitor student learning. Beyond the schoolhouse, the principal plays
a growing and important role as leader in the larger community, building
support for standards, connecting with after-school and summer programs,
and taking part in other critical activities.
The June Satellite Town Meeting will feature a discussion with U.S.
Secretary of Education Richard W. Riley and his guests, including
top principals from across the country. They will explore the issues
including:
- What does it take to be an effective school principal today?
- How can we prepare potential school leaders to take on the challenges
and rewards of leading a school community?
- What are the best ways for principals to support and encourage
teachers?
- In what ways can the principal involve the larger community in
the schools?
- How can a principal reach out to families of diverse backgrounds
and multiple languages?
- Why must principals spend time in classrooms and with students?
- What is the most effective use of the principal's time in observing
teaching and learning?
Schedule of Upcoming Satellite Town Meetings
