When summer nears its end, educators know their break is ending, but excitement is also in the air. A new school year is close, full of new possibilities. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, your role as a school leader will impact many. How can you prepare to have the best year ever?
Strategy 1: Make purposeful plans.
Think of your leadership journey as a roadmap. You have a destination in mind, but you want to detail the steps to get there. Purposeful planning includes outlining important dates, events and meetings throughout the year that include information about your level of involvement. Plans may also detail assignments for your leadership team and staff. Identify three or four goals for the school year and list progress measures to evaluate them. Don’t be afraid to make adjustments! If you use a digital planner, making changes is just a click away. One tip for paper-based planners: Use pencils. It’s easier to erase when you need to make modifications.
Strategy 2: Create captivating communications.
Communication can feel daunting for school leaders because the ability to convey information can affect your influence. Some districts have dedicated communications teams that provide reference guides and many districts release communications plans. The National School Public Relations Association is great resource and many school leaders are leaning on artificial intelligence. Remember to seek district guidance on translation services if you serve a multilingual community.
To create a plan, start by preparing a list of templates for frequent types of communications, including monthly newsletters or regular notifications for staff and families. Other examples of communication that you need include:
- Crisis management (can be guided by district officials)
- Contact matrix (identifying team members to handle specific concerns)
- Protocols for public interactions (office staff, teachers, leadership team)
- Regularly updated website and district-approved social media platforms
- Speeches during school assemblies and family gatherings
Strategy 3: Cultivate a strong culture.
Have you ever heard that “culture eats strategy for breakfast?” This famous phrase signifies that plans and communications mean nothing if leaders fail to create a culture where students, staff and families feel welcomed and valued. Promoting a strong school culture starts before the school year begins. Build or strengthen relationships by connecting with your leadership team, teachers and other staff to discuss the school’s vision, mission and values. If budget and time allow, plan a schoolwide retreat with a focus on culture-building.
Families are another important part of cultivating a positive school culture. A back-to-school event such as an open house can set the tone for strong relationships between the school and families. Host key events throughout the school year with parents or guardians assisting with planning or execution. Students can also take the lead and participate.
Strategy 4: Balance the budget.
School budgets are one of the more challenging aspects of school leadership but managing one doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Lack of adequate planning can lead to rushed expenditures before deadlines, causing undue stress for staff and others involved in purchasing and procurement. When preparing for the new school year, set up a calendar or spreadsheet detailing planned and proposed expenditures. Here are some additional tips:
- Monitor budget expenditures on a consistent basis to ensure you’re on track.
- Follow district policies before entering into agreements with vendors.
- Seek guidance if you are unsure how to classify certain expenditures, particularly when using federal funds.
- Ask teachers for instructional wish lists and fulfill orders if possible.
There you have it! Take these four strategies and prepare for a strong school year. Remember, it’s all about the students – thoughtfulness and planning create a robust learning environment where students, teachers, staff and even you as the leader can thrive. You’ve got this!
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