Keys to Supporting School Leaders

Principal supervisor Ayesha Farag discusses the themes that emerged from her interviews with those she supervises and integrated her findings with a February 2021 Wallace Report, which speaks to the significance of principal leadership to student growth and development. What do principals (especially those with experience) need from a supervisor?

1. A supportive culture and climate. Principals choose to stay in their schools when trust is high, communication is transparent, quality relationships are prioritized, and it’s safe to speak up with ideas, questions, or concerns (psychological safety). They value having a voice in problem-solving and decision-making, and they appreciate their supervisor acknowledge the demands of the job and support them in finding balance (aka a quality leadership-life fit).

Learn more by asking your principals...

• • • What is your perception of trust and transparency in the district?
    • How do you feel about your opportunities to contribute to decisions?
    • What processes and protocols best support you in your role as principal?
    • What’s one thing I can do to strengthen my support of you?

2. Aligned values and actions. Clarity of values—what's important to the district and why—helps principals know if they will be a fit in your district. When the principal shares the values held by the district, research shows they navigate stressful times better and find a sense purpose and direction in their work.

Learn more by asking your principals...

• • • How well do you think our practices and policies align to our district values?
    • What motivates your daily work as principal?

3. Opportunities for professional growth and development. Principals want to grow and improve their leadership.

Ground your discussion regarding professional growth in questions related to Wallace’s most recent research.

Additional principal supervisor activities shown by research to support principals:

• Regular check-ins
• Community of Practice — Think tank protocol around problems of practice
• Promoting goal-setting and reflection — see the IAPDP Template
• Promoting peer learning – how can your principals learn from each other?
• Gather regular feedback from principals regarding their learning experiences.

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