If I Only Knew...

Here′s the essential information you need to succeed - whether you′re starting your first principalship or moving to a new post. You′ll find out how to sharpen your crucial problem-solving skills. Make good decisions quickly, without second-guessing yourself. Develop a proactive approach and address small concerns before they become big problems. Alvy and Robbins offer you ideas, strategies, and words of wisdom gleaned from practical experience to help you prepare for anything a school leader might encounter.

You′ll learn how to

• Manage your time to best advantage
• Boost staff morale
• Rally community support for your school
• Advocate for every program, student, and teacher
• Provide staff members with meaningful evaluation and professional guidance
• Develop strong, healthy relationships with staff members
• Practice purposeful visibility

Let teachers, students, and your school community see you on the campus, not just in your office. Focus on the real center of your school - the classrooms - and visit each class regularly. Make sure you ask the right questions of your staff, your students, and the community. Be observant, and do what you can to learn every day - especially from your mistakes. The authors suggest expanding your expertise by forging relationships with experts you can call on for advice. Join or start a network with other principals. Cultivate a core group you can count on for a second opinion, as a sounding-board, or for emotional support.

The authors bring considerable expertise to this book. Alvy, after serving a school principal for more than a decade, recently began a new position as principal at Singapore American School. Robbins has worked with school principals for twenty-six years, designing and delivering training for principals′ academies, among other things. Who benefits from your excellence as a school leader? You, your staff, parents, and the community - but most of all, your students