High School Principal

Jerry is a high school principal from Michigan.
The interviewer expresses gratitude for Jerry's presence and looks forward to his insights.

Jerry has 27 years in education, beginning his career as a teacher.
He considers himself a teacher at heart, believing one never completely leaves that identity.
After 16 years of teaching, he transitioned into administration when the principal of his project-based learning school left.
Although he did not initially want to be a principal, he was encouraged by the superintendent to take the role due to his understanding of project-based learning.
He served in that role for 12 years before moving to Lakeshore High School, starting his first year there.

Project-Based Learning (PBL) involves students working on real-world projects to learn academic standards.
Example of a PBL initiative:
- A biology and earth science class partnered with the city to design educational signs along a river walk about invasive species.
- This required students to learn about invasive species and habitats, linking academic standards to a practical project for the community.
PBL adds relevance and urgency to learning by replicating the workplace environment, preparing students for future careers.

Effective instructional leadership emphasizes allowing teachers to be themselves and apply their unique skills to their work.
Jerry believes autonomy, respect, and the freedom to innovate are critical for educators.
- He sees his role as clearing obstacles to encourage creativity among staff.
Engagement is essential to connect classroom activities with students’ lives, particularly their experiences outside school, such as gaming and social media.

Establishing opportunities for student voice is fundamental.
Connections Protocol:
- A practice of having discussions at the beginning of classes, fostering an environment where students feel heard and valued.
- This approach helps students move past distractions they bring to school, enhancing their willingness to learn.

Text-based seminars were implemented to address social-emotional issues faced by students, for example, discussing loneliness.
It is crucial to equip students with tools to navigate challenges independently, preparing them for life beyond school.
Text-based seminars allow for personalized discussions that acknowledge students’ specific experiences.

Jerry emphasizes the importance of over-communication with parents.
- Various methods include email, phone calls, and inviting parents to engage with school activities actively.
He suggests providing venues for parental discourse, such as regular meetings or informal engagements at local venues like supermarkets.
Opportunities for parents to contribute as experts in their fields through school projects can help build relationships.

School days typically start early (around 6:00 AM) to support teachers and students.
A principal must be present in hallways and classrooms, ensuring support for teachers and students alike.
Flexibility in the schedule is vital as unpredictability often arises; being receptive to immediate needs is crucial.
After-school commitments include sports events, meetings with parents, and board meetings.

Jerry collaborates with staff to ensure a presence at important events, dividing responsibilities while supporting school functions.

Listening to staff is essential in building trust; Jerry has met with teachers to gather input on priorities.
An approach that values staff input and fosters collaboration over a top-down management style is embraced.
Fun team-building activities are encouraged to enhance staff morale and collaborative spirit.
Leaders should model effective communication practices, including the use of protocols that empower staff.

Recent challenges include heightened concerns over school safety issues and adapting to societal changes due to COVID-19.
The landscape of parent involvement is shifting, requiring vigilance against misinformation circulated through social media.
Jerry notes that social media has altered communication dynamics, both facilitating information sharing and complicating narratives.
The expectation for transparency and dialogue with parents around school discipline and policies has also increased.

Aspiring leaders should visit other schools and connect with experienced administrators to exchange best practices.
Continuous professional development is important through attending conferences and engaging with the educational community.
Utilize media like podcasts for ongoing learning.
Connection with students is vital to maintain motivation and accountability in leadership roles.

Jerry concludes by reflecting on the importance of staying engaged with students and being passionate about education, which contributes to effective leadership.
The session concludes with appreciation for Jerry’s insights and the positive impact on the audience.