5 Ways for Principals To Be More Visible

The job of a school principal has evolved over the last several decades. It has gone from manager, to instructional leader, to transformative leader, to everything including the kitchen sink. With everything principals have to do throughout the day, one of the most essential elements of the role is visibility. Here are five ways that principals can be more visible on campus and in their role.

1. Rule The Parking Lot

The mere mention of a school’s parking lot can weaken the knees of even the most seasoned educator or parent. Being present at the end of the day in the parking lot is a great way to let all the parents know that you are out there making everyone safe and wishing your students a good rest of the day. These short interactions can mean everything.

1. Use Social Media

Set up a school twitter account and start sharing out all the wonderful things that happen each and every day. Don’t like Twitter .. try Instagram, Facebook, Remind, or Snapchat … There are endless possibilities. These updates take just seconds and can provide parents with a strong connection to the school and you.

1. Interact with Students on Their Level 

Everyday, parents ask their children what happened to them at school that day. Principals need to be mentioned in that conversation.

Here are some ideas:

1. Join a lunchtime basketball game.
2. Share Minecraft missions.
3. Debate current movies and music.
4. Talk about the game last night. Any sport will do.
5. Ask students to show you what they are learning about.

Remember, active principals are popular principals.

1. Help out in the Cafeteria

One of my favorite pastimes is to help students select a hot lunch. If you can make a school lunch sound appealing, then you can accomplish anything. Plus, the kids will love it! Chicken chunks for everyone! Mmmmmmm!

1. Hold Monthly Coffee With The Principal Meetings

These informal meetings help bring your school community together. Keep the agenda light with the focus being on coming together to build a shared vision. Even if there is no agenda, parents will appreciate the fact that you are there to interface with them.