Principals
Education news, analysis, and opinion that focuses on principals and their roles in K-12 schools
Hour by Busy Hour: What a Principal's Day Actually Looks Like
From the time they wake up until they set the alarm at night, school leaders juggle the routine, the unexpected, and the downright bizarre.
Get The Savvy Principal
Delivered Sunday morning, this newsletter has essential news, information, and career resources specifically for school leaders.
School & District Management
Opinion
I Invited Students to Help Hire a New Assistant Principal. Here’s What Happened
What began as an opportunity for the students turned into a gift for our administrative team.
School & District Management
Opinion
5 Education Leadership Lessons From Chef Ina Garten
"Less is more," "quality is everything," and more tips inspired by the art of cooking to build trust, connection in your school community.
School & District Management
A Principal Was Put on Leave for Her Election Message. What Leaders Need to Know
Principals have to tread a fine line to avoid getting too political in their role as public school leaders.
Budget & Finance
The G.O.A.T. School Fundraising Idea for Principals. (Really.)
For this season of giving, principals are ditching tried-and-tested methods.
School & District Management
Video
‘I’m Not About Making Excuses’: Lessons From the National Principal of the Year
With this targeted approach, the National Principal of the Year improved student test scores in reading and math.
School & District Management
Video
How This Principal Manages Student Behavior—Without Too Many Rules
Principal Tracie Anderson Swilley brought students on board to make big changes to her school’s culture.
School & District Management
Inside the No-Limits Mindset of the New National Principal of the Year
Tracie Anderson Swilley, a high school principal in South Carolina, was awarded the title for the 2024-25 academic year.
Reading & Literacy
Quiz
Quiz Yourself: How Much Do You Know About Literacy Leadership?
Answer 7 questions about the role of leadership in reading and literacy practices and curriculum.
Reading & Literacy
Video
Implementing New Reading Materials Is Hard. How This Principal Got Buy-In
A NYC principal explains how she implemented the Wit and Wisdom reading curriculum in her school. The first step was teacher buy-in.
School & District Management
This State Is Bucking Gender and Race Trends in School Leadership
A 12-year study in one state shows a major uptick in the diversity of school leaders.
Education Funding
Gun Violence Takes a Toll. We Need More Support, Principals Tell Congress
At a congressional roundtable, school leaders made an emotional appeal for more funds to help schools recover from gun violence.
School & District Management
Opinion
5 Lessons Principals Can Learn From U.S. Presidents About Leadership
What does it take to lead a school in this polarized political climate? Let history be your guide.
School & District Management
Video
How This Principal Protects Her Teachers’ Work-Life Balance
Work-life balance is possible for teachers. School and district leaders play a big role in making it happen.
School & District Management
3 Ways Principals Can Respond to Polarization and Division
The role of a school leader is inherently difficult and conflict-ridden. Here's what they can do to manage tense situations.