The Principled Principal: 10 Principles for Leading Exceptional Schools

by Jeffrey Zoul, Anthony McConnell

Lead with Excellence Jeffrey Zoul and Anthony McConnell know from personal experience that the role of school principal is one of the most challenging and the most rewarding in education. Through their work with educators and school districts across the United States, Zoul and McConnell have identified ten core values that guide the best of the best to work and lead with excellence. The Principled Principal examines each of those ten guiding principles, using stories and real-life examples to make them relevant and applicable for every school leader. You’ll learn . . . What to prioritize and what to eliminate from your to-do list How to empower your staff and students How to hire the right people for your school Why and how to keep calm in a crisis How to recognize and avoid “culture crushers” How to create a positive culture for your school community Implement the strategies and practices in The Principled Principal, and fast-track your way to becoming the leader your school needs.

Genres: Education, Leadership

262 pages, Paperback

Published January 22, 2018

Reviews

[Jamie Johnson Leach · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent book for principals and anyone who is interested in school leadership. The 10 principals are an easy way to think about the basics of school leadership. I really like the real-life explanations from principals for each principle. I also like that they are willing to share their Twitter handle, so that you can connect with them further. Another bonus is the principled principal website and the recommendations after each principle as to which section to check out on the website.
Some key things that jumped out at me:
-Keep people at the forefront of everything you do. I think that sometimes principals get tied to their office and the "running" of things. They need to remember that this is a "people first" job, get out there and spent time with the students and staff.
-Have expectations and norms for your staff and students. Be consistent!
-Be willing to change! The world is changing, so we need to stay relevant in our technology and curriculum...but take the time to make sure that change is happening for the right reasons, not just for change itself.
-Always be honest about change. Why are we doing this? How will it help students?
-Communication is key! With staff, with students, with parents.
-Be a true example of lifelong learning. Read, attend conferences, build a PLN.
-Create a culture that encourages everyone to feel like they are part of something bigger. Banners, school colors everywhere, school apparel, assemblies that engage as many people as possible...

[Jessica Cabeen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent tips for leaders at any stage of career. Book is broken down into key principles and offers supplemental stories from principals getting it done in the field.

[Brian McCann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Purposely waited until August to read this book. What a perfect way to start off the school year next week!! Great perspectives. Great advice. Lots of inspiration and validation.

[Bruce Nieminski · Rating 4 out of 5]

8/10

262 pages