Inspiring, envisioning, and inciting the enthusiasm in others are qualities of a great leader.

Being a leader requires a clear vision of the type administrator you envision yourself as being. It

also involves contemplation of how others perceive you. In addition, administrative leaders must

evaluate the standards in which they will abide by. Having a strong philosophical foundation of

leadership ultimately affects your behavior and effectiveness.

Our core values and sense of purpose influence the type of leader we become. As leader of

a school, you are required to fill several positions, such as administrator, manager, diplomat, teacher

and curriculum leader. To do what is best for students, one primary role is that of instructional

leader. As clearly defined in Education Leadership, Instructional leadership involves setting clear

goals, managing curriculum, monitoring lesson plans, allocating resources and evaluating teachers

regularly to promote student learning and growth (2013, para. 3). A vital part of being an effective

administrative leader begins with building a community of learners. This requires a shared vision,

involving all shareholders, which will promote an environment of collaborative decision-making,

and in turn, creates a greater sense of support and success. Being an administrative leader does not

mean isolation, rather it allows for a more meaningful learning environment in which promotes

success for all who are involved.

The manner in which administrative leaders are perceived can positively and negatively

impact a schools environment. Teachers, staff, and students respond to leaders who are positive

and motivational. An administrative leader cultivates relationships with all stakeholders by making

themselves available to them and by being an active listener to their comments and concerns.

Positive interactions consistently modeled by the principal sets a beneficial tone each day and

conveys support toward others that they are valued and supported. These daily decisions for

positive interaction have an overall impact on both teachers and students success. Teachers want

administrative leaders to include them in the decision making process, provide instructional

feedback, as well as support. This form of leadership impacts the overall school culture and

Page
1
provides teachers and staff with opportunities to share their ideas and increases professional growth.

When teachers, staff, students, and families feel their needs are being met, there is a positive

perception toward the administrative leader. These effective practices enhance school improvement

and promote professional and academic growth.

The standards in which administrative leaders base their actions on shape a schools

environment. Eleanor Roosevelt once said, Ones philosophy is not best expressed in words; it is

expressed in the choices one makes. Our principles can have a strong influence on how we

understand, interpret, and react toward others. Gaining mutual respect, whether among teachers,

students, or parents, promotes working relationships. So, when faced with a difficult situation or

difference of opinion, it is not taken personally, and progress can be made. Ultimately, it is the

administrative leaders responsibility for everything that takes place at school. Promoting a positive

school climate improves the behavioral and academic outcome for students. As stated in the U.S.

Department of Educations Guiding Principles (2014), Given the relationship between school

climate and academic achievement, schools should take deliberate steps to create a positive school

climate in which every student can learn, fully engage in a rigorous curriculum, and feel safe,

nurtured, and welcome (pg. 15). As administrative leaders we are mindful of the main reason why

we do what we do, which is, to ensure the needs of every student that we serve is met.

Page
2