MED 7706 The Principalship, PreK–8

This course examines the role of the building principal in terms of four central themes associated with effective school leadership: developing a shared vision and planning for continuous school improvement, maintaining a constant focus on teaching and learning, involving all school/community stakeholders, and demonstrating ethical behavior. Each of these themes is explored in relation to the building principal’s major areas of responsibility (listed in research-based rank order of importance): leadership; strategic planning; facilitating student learning; developing, implementing, and evaluating curriculum and instruction; selecting, supervising and evaluating staff; interpersonal relationships; staff development and renewal; community relations; management duties; maintaining the physical security of students, faculty, and staff; and school operations. Although the primary focus is on preK-8 schools, key issues relevant to secondary schools will also be addressed.