In recent years, informal walk-throughs have become an expected part of the principal's routine. These visits sometimes bring about the uncomfortable realization that some classes in the school are a monotonous, lackluster test of endurance, rather than the rich, inviting academic experience that could have lasting impact on learning. Rather than…

In this article, the author discusses the benefits of assigning proteges to first-year principals. This practice allows aspiring principals to experience what it is like to be a first-year principal. Having a first-year principal serve in a mentorship role can benefit both the principal and the protege--as well as students, teachers, and the…

State and federal policymakers have recently upgraded accountability rules, thrusting school leaders into uncharted, uncomfortable territory. In this scenario, principals must adopt flexible, facilitative leadership styles, model core school values, develop organizational capacity, accept heightened public scrutiny, and represent the school's…

The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) sets standards for the teaching profession and certifies teachers who meet those standards. Currently there are NBPTS-developed standards for 27 fields, such as age range (e.g., early childhood, adolescence, young adulthood) and content area (e.g., English/language arts, middle…