Qualities of Effective Principals

About the Author

James H. Stronge, a distinguished author and educator, is the president and CEO of Stronge and Associates Educational Consulting, LLC. With an extensive background in educational research, Stronge has authored or co-authored 34 books and over 200 articles, chapters, and technical reports. His work focuses on teacher and principal effectiveness, as well as international comparisons of educational practices. Xianxuan Xu, co-author, is a researcher specializing in educational analytics, with a particular focus on student achievement and teacher effectiveness. She has contributed to several books and published numerous research studies in academic journals.

Main Idea

"Qualities of Effective Principals" explores the critical qualities and practices that define effective school leadership. The book emphasizes the importance of principals in shaping school culture, enhancing instructional practices, and ultimately driving student success. It provides a comprehensive guide to the multifaceted role of principals, offering insights into instructional leadership, school climate, human resource management, and more. By focusing on research-backed strategies, the authors highlight the indispensable role of principals in fostering a supportive and thriving educational environment.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction: The Role of Principals in Student Success
2. Instructional Leadership: Supporting Best Practice
3. School Climate: The Heart of the School
4. Human Resource Administration: Recruiting, Selecting, Supporting, and Retaining High-Quality Teachers and Staff
5. Teacher Evaluation: Assessing Instructional Quality
6. Organizational Management: Building a Foundation for Teaching and Learning
7. Communication and Community Relations: Working with Internal and External Constituencies
8. Professionalism and the Principal: Making a Difference in the Educational Community

Introduction: The Role of Principals in Student Success

The introduction sets the stage by emphasizing the pivotal role of principals in student achievement. Principals are not just administrators; they are key players in shaping the school's vision and culture. Effective principals lead by example, setting high expectations and fostering a culture of excellence. The book posits that without strong leadership at the helm, schools cannot achieve their full potential. This section introduces the multifaceted responsibilities of principals, including safety, crisis management, and the implementation of educational programs.