If you’re leading a school today, you’re probably living in two worlds at once. You’re listening closely to teachers, hearing their exhaustion, their ideas, their very real needs. And then you’re meeting with district leadership navigating mandates, initiatives, timelines, and platforms that often come faster than anyone can implement. We hear this from school leadersContinue reading "Stuck in the Middle: What Principals Wish Everyone Understood"
Stop Asking Teachers to “Remember Their Why”
Every time teachers express exhaustion or frustration, someone inevitably tells them to “remember their why.” It’s meant to be uplifting, but more often, it lands like another demand—another way of saying, your purpose should outweigh your reality. Here’s the problem: teachers never forgot their why. They still care deeply about students. They still believe inContinue reading "Stop Asking Teachers to “Remember Their Why”"
Stop Building Programs and Start Building Systems
Across the country, school leaders are navigating one of the most unpredictable budget years in recent memory. The spreadsheets may look familiar, but the ground beneath them is anything but steady. Between the expiration of federal relief funds, fluctuating state revenues, and growing questions about the future direction of the U.S. Department of Education, theContinue reading "Stop Building Programs and Start Building Systems"
Why Excellent Schools Must Move From Maslow to Deep Learning
In education, Maslow’s hierarchy of needs has become almost a mantra. We remind ourselves—rightly—that students cannot learn if they are hungry, unsafe, or unseen. Meeting those foundational needs is the moral obligation of every school. But here’s the danger: if we anchor our vision of schooling solely in Maslow, we risk building systems that comfort,Continue reading "Why Excellent Schools Must Move From Maslow to Deep Learning"
5 Ways School Administrators Can Best Partner with the Teachers Union
In many districts, the relationship between school administrators and the teacher’s union is often portrayed as adversarial. Negotiations over contracts, compensation, and working conditions can create tension, and it’s easy to fall into an “us versus them” mindset. Yet, at its core, both administrators and unions share the same mission: supporting teachers so that studentsContinue reading "5 Ways School Administrators Can Best Partner with the Teachers Union"
When Edu-Celebrities Get It Wrong: Stop Taking Soundbites as Strategy
Let’s be honest—education has its own celebrity culture. Scroll through LinkedIn, TikTok, Facebook, X, or the latest conference program, and you’ll see the same faces: dynamic, high-energy presenters with big ideas and even bigger followings. They’ve got book deals, branded hashtags, media agents, and quotes that rack up hundreds of shares. Some of these quotesContinue reading "When Edu-Celebrities Get It Wrong: Stop Taking Soundbites as Strategy"
Beyond the Game: Why Athletes Should Show Up for the Arts
As educators, we talk often about the value of a well-rounded education. We champion the importance of both STEM and the humanities, push for collaboration between academic departments, and strive to build school cultures where every student feels seen. But there’s an opportunity we often overlook—one that has the power to strengthen our entire community:Continue reading "Beyond the Game: Why Athletes Should Show Up for the Arts"
From Candidate to Leader: 5 Ways to Shine in Your Principal Interview”
The principal's leadership is vital for a school's success. Candidates should emphasize their vision for student achievement, strong decision-making, commitment to teacher support, community engagement, and resource management during interviews. Demonstrating these competencies showcases passion and readiness to lead effectively in fostering a thriving educational environment.
5 Education Concepts To Eliminate in 2025
This article is the 9th installment of the "5 Educational Concepts to Eliminate" series. This series began in 2016 and has been read hundreds of thousands of times by educators across the world. As we enter the dawn of 2025, we must re-evaluate our current positions and pivot as needed to ensure we are meetingContinue reading "5 Education Concepts To Eliminate in 2025"
Applying Covey’s Time Management Matrix to a School Principal’s Work
One of the most common concerns coming from principals today is the amount of stress associated with the job. Second is the lack of time needed to complete everything that needs to get down in order to keep the school moving in the right direction. In the busy world of education leadership, principals juggle countlessContinue reading "Applying Covey’s Time Management Matrix to a School Principal’s Work"
Creating a Safe and Festive Halloween: Top Tips for Principals
Halloween is a time of excitement and creativity for students, and schools can play a big role in making it safe, inclusive, and memorable. For principals, balancing fun with safety and inclusivity is key. Here are five creative and practical ways to make Halloween a fantastic experience for students of all ages. 1. Set ClearContinue reading "Creating a Safe and Festive Halloween: Top Tips for Principals"
5 Ways Schools Can Update Libraries for Today’s Students
In an era where information is just a click away, the role of the school library is evolving. No longer confined to shelves of dusty books, today’s libraries have the potential to be vibrant hubs of learning and innovation. Updating school libraries to meet the needs of modern students means embracing digital technology, creating flexibleContinue reading "5 Ways Schools Can Update Libraries for Today’s Students"
5 Strategies to Organize The Lunch Period
Organizing a school’s lunch period might seem straightforward, but it’s a crucial part of the school day that can significantly impact students' overall well-being and productivity. A well-managed lunch period not only enhances student satisfaction, but also promotes healthier eating habits and contributes to a more positive school environment. Here are five effective strategies toContinue reading "5 Strategies to Organize The Lunch Period"
5 Alternatives to School Suspension
School suspensions have long been the go-to disciplinary measure for managing student misconduct, but they're increasingly viewed as ineffective and counterproductive. When students are removed from the classroom, they miss valuable instructional time and may fall behind academically, which can lead to even more frustration and negative behavior. Fortunately, there are alternatives to suspension thatContinue reading "5 Alternatives to School Suspension"
5 Ways School Counselors Can Boost Student Attendance
At the start of each school year, one of the most critical tasks for school counselors is ensuring that students attend school regularly. Consistent attendance is vital for academic success, social development, and overall well-being. However, many students face challenges that can lead to chronic absenteeism. In this blog, we’ll explore five essential strategies schoolContinue reading "5 Ways School Counselors Can Boost Student Attendance"
Unleashing the Olympian Leader Within: 5 Summer Olympic Sports and Their Leadership Lessons
The Summer Olympics in Paris is a spectacular showcase of athletic prowess, determination, and the human spirit. Beyond the thrilling competitions, the heartfelt stories of triumph over adversity, and, let’s be honest, Snoop Dogg’s amazing commentary, these sports offer profound lessons in leadership. In this blog post, let’s explore five Summer Olympic sports and theContinue reading "Unleashing the Olympian Leader Within: 5 Summer Olympic Sports and Their Leadership Lessons"
5 Mistakes Principals Make When Teachers Come Back from Summer Vacation (And How to Avoid Them)
Returning from summer vacation can be a challenging transition for teachers, who often need time to readjust to their classroom routines and regain their momentum. Principals and APs play a critical role in smoothing this transition and setting a positive tone for the rest of the school year. To support teachers effectively and foster aContinue reading "5 Mistakes Principals Make When Teachers Come Back from Summer Vacation (And How to Avoid Them)"
5 Areas Principals Should Reflect On At The End Of The School Year
As the school year draws to a close, it’s crucial for principals to take a step back and reflect on the journey. This reflection isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about gaining insights, celebrating successes, and identifying areas for growth. Here are the top five areas principals should focus on during their end-of-year reflections. 1.Continue reading "5 Areas Principals Should Reflect On At The End Of The School Year"
30 Themes For The Upcoming School Year
In the bustling halls of our schools, amidst the eager chatter of students and the dedicated hum of educators, lies a simple yet profound tool that has the potential to transform the educational landscape: the school theme. Far from just a decorative slogan adorning bulletin boards, a well-chosen theme serves as a beacon, guiding theContinue reading "30 Themes For The Upcoming School Year"
5 Factors Principals Should Consider When Hiring Teachers
The process of hiring new teachers is one of the most crucial tasks that school principals undertake. As educational leaders, principals bear the responsibility of selecting candidates who not only possess the right qualifications, but also embody the values and principles that align with the school's mission. Here are 5 essential factors that principals shouldContinue reading "5 Factors Principals Should Consider When Hiring Teachers"
The Power of Flexibility: Why Student Data Dashboards Should Be Customizable
In the ever-evolving landscape of education, the importance of data-driven decision-making cannot be overstated. Student data dashboards serve as invaluable tools for educators, administrators, and even students themselves. However, not all dashboards are created equal. The key to unlocking the full potential of these tools lies in their flexibility, adaptability, and customization. It is crucialContinue reading "The Power of Flexibility: Why Student Data Dashboards Should Be Customizable "
Leadership Unboxed: A Slice of Wisdom from Pizza Toppings
In the delectable world of pizza, where flavors mingle and textures dance, lies a surprising reservoir of wisdom on leadership styles. As we savor each bite of our favorite pies, we can discern more than just the perfect blend of ingredients – we can uncover valuable insights into the art of school leadership. Join meContinue reading "Leadership Unboxed: A Slice of Wisdom from Pizza Toppings"
5 Elements Of Mastery Learning
Mastery learning is a transformative educational approach that places emphasis on ensuring that every student attains a deep and thorough understanding of core concepts before progressing to more advanced material. Embracing mastery learning involves a shift from traditional, time-bound models of instruction to a more personalized and flexible methodology. In this approach, the focus isContinue reading "5 Elements Of Mastery Learning"
5 Ways Principals Can Reduce Conflicts Between Teachers
Decreasing conflicts between teachers is essential for maintaining a positive and productive school environment. Principals can play a crucial role in fostering a collaborative and harmonious atmosphere among the staff. Here are five ways principals can reduce conflicts between teachers.
Got Data, Now What?
Using data to make informed decisions both in the classroom and in the front office is nothing new. Students have been taking standardized assessments for decades. Schools have also tracked attendance, disciplinary incidents, and formative assessments for years. The issue for most schools is not a lack of data, but having too much data toContinue reading "Got Data, Now What?"
10 Ways To Rethink Seating Arrangements
Different classroom seating arrangements are important because they provide educators with versatile tools to tailor the learning environment to various teaching objectives and student needs. These arrangements influence student engagement, interaction, and learning experiences. By offering a range of seating options, teachers in all levels can create dynamic spaces that accommodate different learning styles, fosterContinue reading "10 Ways To Rethink Seating Arrangements"
5 Ways To Support Substitute Teachers
A recent National Center of Education Statistics representative survey of schools across the country also found that 72 percent of public schools had higher teacher absenteeism rates than before the pandemic. Substitute teachers will continue to be needed in schools across the country. Supporting substitute teachers is crucial for maintaining a positive and productive schoolContinue reading "5 Ways To Support Substitute Teachers"
6 Leadership Styles From The Cast of Friends
The TV show "Friends" features six main characters, each with their unique personalities and leadership traits. Running from 1994-2004, many current school leaders came of age while "Friends" dominated TV. Here are some notable leadership traits associated with the main characters: Monica Geller: Monica is known for her organizational skills, attention to detail, and perfectionism.Continue reading "6 Leadership Styles From The Cast of Friends"
5 Things Principals Should Avoid At The Beginning of the Year
At the beginning of the school year, principals play a crucial role in setting the tone and establishing a positive working and learning environment for students, teachers, and staff. For principals who are new to their school, these first impressions are critical. While there is much to do before the students arrive, there are someContinue reading "5 Things Principals Should Avoid At The Beginning of the Year"
5 Leadership Styles From The Golden Girls
The Golden Girls impart valuable leadership lessons through their dynamic and diverse personalities. Firstly, they teach us the importance of effective communication and the power of assertiveness. Secondly, they emphasize the significance of embracing change and being adaptable. Thirdly, they highlight the value of compassion and empathy. Lastly, they emphasize the wisdom that comes withContinue reading "5 Leadership Styles From The Golden Girls"
5 Ways Schools Can Prevent Vaping
The dangers of vaping in children are a growing concern due to the potential health risks associated with e-cigarette use. The Food and Drug Administration reported in December of 2022 that 14.1% of high school students and 3.3% of middle school students use e-cigarettes regularly. There are many obvious dangers for individuals who vape, especiallyContinue reading "5 Ways Schools Can Prevent Vaping"
This Testing Season, Let’s Plan for Success
Every educator wants to see their students succeed – both in school and beyond. We do our best to help them grow while fostering a mindset of curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. However, at some point every student must be assessed on what they’ve learned, and this can lead to problems. After a school yearContinue reading "This Testing Season, Let’s Plan for Success"
Transforming Education with ChatGPT 5 Ways Schools Can Benefit
As a large language model, ChatGPT has the potential to revolutionize the way schools approach education. From personalized learning to assistive technology, here are five ways ChatGPT can be used in schools: Personalized Learning: With ChatGPT, schools can create personalized learning experiences for each student. The model's ability to understand and respond to natural languageContinue reading "Transforming Education with ChatGPT 5 Ways Schools Can Benefit"
Beyond Tests: 5 Alternative Assessment Strategies
We know assessments — both formative and summative — are critical components of teaching and learning, but so often they become straight-up burdens. At best, they can be boring and uninformative. At worst, they can take on a life of their own, and overtake what we know is most important in the learning process. ThisContinue reading "Beyond Tests: 5 Alternative Assessment Strategies"
Teacher Walk-up Song List
Baseball players have walk up songs. Teachers, principals, and staff members should have one too! Recently I asked The Principal's Desk Facebook Group members what would be their walk up song as they arrived on campus? Hundreds of educators replied. Here are some of their answers: Welcome To The Jungle - Guns and Roses GoodContinue reading "Teacher Walk-up Song List"
5 Educational Concepts To Eliminate in 2023
The start of a new school or calendar year gives us the opportunity to pause and reflect on what is working and what needs to change. This is the 7th installment of 5 Educational Concepts We Need to Eliminate. The first installment was written back in 2017. This article series has been read tens ofContinue reading "5 Educational Concepts To Eliminate in 2023"
5 Leadership Styles From Ted Lasso
Ted Lasso is arguably one of the best shows out there right now. The strength of the show is centered around the 5 main characters: Ted Lasso, Coach Beard, Roy Kent, Rebecca Welton, and Nathan Shelley. Each has their own individual leadership and communication style. Each character could be a study in leadership development asContinue reading "5 Leadership Styles From Ted Lasso"
7 Ways to Kick-Start Student Engagement
We surveyed administrators in the fall of 2021 and again in 2022 to discover the top concerns on K-12 administrators minds. In 2021, the top 3 concerns were learning loss, mental health, and teacher morale. And in 2022, the top 3 concerns were student engagement, improving teaching and learning, and teacher morale. So, administrators areContinue reading "7 Ways to Kick-Start Student Engagement"
5 Ways to Get Started With Project-Based Learning
It’s time our schools function less as factories that churn out pupils laden with decontextualized content knowledge, and more as innovation zones that develop the next generation of problem solvers. What if schools were beacons of curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking? There’s never been a better time to create classrooms that matter, to make project-basedContinue reading "5 Ways to Get Started With Project-Based Learning"
5 Must Haves For Your School’s PLCs
Many schools claim to have productive and comprehensive Professional Learning Communities. However, most of these schools are only scratching the surface when it comes to true collaboration and creating a student-centered approach. There are several elements that must be in place for any PLC to be successful and purposeful. If these elements are not inContinue reading "5 Must Haves For Your School’s PLCs"
Essential Topics at June 20-21 Online Education Conference
One glance at the flyer above, and you'll find some must-have presentations! From literacy and numeracy to data-driven MTSS strategies, you'll discover workshops that you'll need in order to plan your PD for the 2022-23 academic year. Our speakers and facilitators are preparing to engage you in meaningful conversations so you can immediately integrate thisContinue reading "Essential Topics at June 20-21 Online Education Conference"
Opening Speaker: Sara Truebridge
It is with great enthusiasm that Dr. Sara Truebridge will be kicking off our June 20-21 Online Conference. Sara is an researcher in resilience and growth mindsets. She will be speaking about what protective factors build successful students despite experiencing any setbacks. Learning through a pandemic has been trauma-inducing for some students (and adults asContinue reading "Opening Speaker: Sara Truebridge"
Find Your Heart: 3 Ways to Reclaim Your Love for Education
If you feel like this year has been more stressful, more overwhelming, and more difficult to find the joy in education than ever before, you’re not alone. With pandemic protocols, political unrest, and increasing workloads and responsibilities ravishing our schools, the heart of education can at times feel lost. It doesn’t have to be this wayContinue reading "Find Your Heart: 3 Ways to Reclaim Your Love for Education"
Teachers on the Brink: 4 Ways of Protecting Teacher Morale and Mental Health
This goes without saying, yet it’s too important not to mention: Educators had a positively traumatic end to the 2019-20 school year, found themselves in a constant state of adaptation in the 2020-21 school year, and entered 2021-22 with a false sense of optimism, almost willing it to be a normal school year. It didn’tContinue reading "Teachers on the Brink: 4 Ways of Protecting Teacher Morale and Mental Health"
Toxic Positivity is Hurting Education
One of the most interesting and polarizing concepts in education that has popped up in recent years is the notion of “toxic positivity”. Healthline.com reports that with toxic positivity, negative emotions are seen as inherently bad. Instead, positivity and happiness are compulsively pushed, and authentic human emotional experiences are denied, minimized, or invalidated. Toxic positivityContinue reading "Toxic Positivity is Hurting Education"
Filling in the Gaps: Collecting and Analyzing the Right Student Data
We were all hoping to wake up one morning and things would be back to normal. Normal work, normal play, normal school, normal lives. We need to face the facts. We just aren’t there yet. As we look at the 2021-22 school year, we must do so with honesty, realism, and eyes wide open. ManyContinue reading "Filling in the Gaps: Collecting and Analyzing the Right Student Data "
5 Ways Schools Should Change After COVID-19
On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic. In the days that followed, schools shut their doors to in-person learning, forcing educators around the world to rethink how to deliver meaningful and engaging instruction remotely. Many educational organizations were not prepared for such a shift as teachers and students were leftContinue reading "5 Ways Schools Should Change After COVID-19"
NAEP Scores Hit New Lows: It’s Time to Put Academics First
The latest results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) are sobering. Reading and math scores for high school seniors have dropped to their lowest levels in more than 20 years. In 2024, only 22% of twelfth graders were proficient in math, and just 35% in reading—both down from 2019. Nearly half of seniorsContinue reading "NAEP Scores Hit New Lows: It’s Time to Put Academics First"
THE PRINCIPAL'S DESK 