Transforming Schools: The Key to Success Lies in Transforming Principals
In the realm of education, the role of the principal is crucial to the success of a school. This is especially true in turnaround schools, where significant improvements are needed to boost student performance and overall outcomes. ACCEL Schools, a charter organization in Ohio, took over a portfolio of nine turnaround schools two years ago, all of which had received an overall rating of F. With less funding compared to traditional schools, ACCEL Schools faced the challenge of transforming these schools with limited resources. However, they recognized that the key to success lay in transforming the principals.
Overcoming Skepticism and Building Trust
When ACCEL Schools initially took over these struggling schools, there was a high level of skepticism among the principals. Years of constant change had eroded their trust in leadership, leading to a mindset of complacency. To address this issue, ACCEL Schools initiated a book study on Mindset, encouraging principals to reflect on their own willingness to grow and improve. This shift in mindset was crucial in setting the stage for the transformation that was to come.
Empowering Principals through Professional Development
The journey to transform these schools began with a multi-year process focused on developing the leadership skills of the principals. In their first summer with ACCEL Schools, the principals participated in a four-week Summer Institute where they worked on a school redesign project. By honing in on academics and school culture, the principals were able to focus on what truly mattered without distractions. This laser focus continued throughout the school year, with principals setting the vision and mission for their schools, aligning them with the culture and academic framework.
During the first academic year, principals received individual coaching with consultants from Insight Education Group. This personalized approach aimed to support the principals in building their leadership skills and implementing a coaching model that they could replicate with their teachers. The coaching relationship was designed to be sacred and protected, providing principals with a safe space to grow and develop.
In the second academic year, ACCEL Schools pivoted to content-based professional development, with each principal receiving their own instructional coach. This shift allowed principals to further enhance their leadership skills and focus on outcome-driven goals. By providing a structured approach to professional development, ACCEL Schools ensured that principals could continuously build on their knowledge and skills.
Empowering Principals for Success
The ultimate goal of ACCEL Schools is to empower each principal so that every school in the system can operate autonomously in terms of leadership capacity and financial stability. By delivering on promised culture and curricular shifts, and by providing ongoing coaching and professional development, ACCEL Schools has earned the trust of their principals. This support, paired with a sense of autonomy and accountability, has motivated principals to take ownership of their schools and drive positive change.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Turnaround Schools
As ACCEL Schools continues to invest in the transformation of principals, the future looks promising for the turnaround schools under their care. By prioritizing leadership development and providing ongoing support, ACCEL Schools is laying the foundation for sustainable success in these schools. The dedication and commitment of the principals, combined with the resources and expertise of ACCEL Schools, are paving the way for a brighter future for students, teachers, and communities alike.
In Conclusion
Transforming schools begins with transforming principals. By investing in the leadership development of principals, ACCEL Schools has demonstrated the power of effective leadership in driving positive change. Through targeted professional development, individual coaching, and a focus on outcomes, ACCEL Schools has set a new standard for turnaround schools in Ohio. As the principals continue on their journey of growth and improvement, the impact on students and communities will undoubtedly be profound. The key to success lies in empowering principals to lead with vision, passion, and purpose, transforming schools and changing lives for the better.