High Expectations (of Principals)
As an experienced principal I have always regarded high expectations as one of the drivers of successful teaching and learning. Things don’t happen just because of expectations, though. No, expectation is something set through high quality example, daily practice and collective commitment.
Only when a school has established clear behavioural expectations and consistent routines that promote both teacher and learner accountability and mutual respect, do you build a climate which promotes the genuine belief that all learners can succeed, which balances rigour with compassion and which, in turn, empowers high expectations.
When the principal, the teachers and the learners walk through that school gate in the morning they should all, in a great school, expect more of themselves. And, in a modern world, and in our country, in particular, learners have the right to expect more from their teachers.
But, as school leaders, we need to remind ourselves often, and, in a very reflective way, what our different stakeholders expect of us:
Let’s start with our LEARNERS. They’re too young to know what they want from their principal, but any foundation phase teacher will tell you. They want to be proud of their school – the best school. They want a principal they look up to with great respect who will ensure that the school brings out the best in them. They want to belong, to be known and recognised. They want a safe place and a fun place – a haven, a little bit of heaven, actually.
What do PARENTS want of the principal? They want the same for their children, but, when their child is in need, they want a principal who is available and approachable and one who will listen, who has wisdom, sensitivity and understanding.
What do TEACHERS want in a principal? They want a leader they can trust, meaning they want integrity and authenticity. They greatly appreciate someone who has compassion, especially for their personal circumstances. And, although they want to be included, they want a principal who has a vision for the school that is easily articulated and understood. They want to be shown the way with clarity, consistency and leadership.
What do GOVERNING BODIES want in the principal they, themselves, have recommended for appointment? They want a CEO who can earn and sustain the confidence of the school’s stakeholders including the community and the department. They want a skilled communicator and a problem-solver who gets things done and takes the school forward.
What does the WCED/DBE want of a principal? That’s easy. Just someone who can implement policy, manage people and programmes, who has business acumen and ethics, who can navigate the legal and constitutional framework, who understands diversity, who can lead and inspire and produce results, and especially every year in Grades 3, 6, 9 and 12!
What does SOUTH AFRICA need? Here’s the difficult one. Principals who have the courage to lead from the front and to stand for a standard; and the all-important tenacity to transform institutions which often just tick boxes into schools that work and schools that change lives. The Principals Academy, I remind you, wants school leaders to be the lever for that change.
Four years ago, the PANDEMIC required principals with fortitude – that strength of mind needed to face crises, week after week, with resilience and a sense of purpose which enabled them to think clearly, on their feet, and in the best interests of children, teachers and their school. Much like now when 2 407 posts must disappear.
By the way, what do I, your COACH, want? I want you to take care of yourself, to be more mindful, more reflective, more future-focused, and, most importantly, I want you and your teachers to be at your best.
If you have a spare hour, I can tell you about my weaknesses as a principal, but this stakeholder approach to expectations helped to remind me where to focus, and, more importantly, where to bring in my team to counter those weaknesses and to build attention to detail.
In conclusion, I’m reminded of a speaker I once had at school, Paddy Glover, Anglican Archbishop of Bloemfontein. He explained expectation in a unique way which really got me thinking. He urges young people starting out “to contribute to this world by striving to become better parents to your children, than your parents have been to you”.
My Mom was widowed at 37 with yours truly being the eldest. So, for me that’s a tall order, but it’s the nature of expecting more of oneself, of doing one’s best.
Till next time.
Paul
Coach/Mentor
The Principals Academy Trust
No: 14/24
12 September 2024