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The First 90 Days: Setting the Course for Principal Success!

Jodie Villemaire

Picture this: you're stepping into your new role as a school principal. The first 90 days stretch ahead, full of excitement, anticipation, and let's face it, a healthy dose of apprehension. 


I’ve been in your shoes, and I'm here to share some wisdom I've accumulated over the years, not only as a public school principal but also as a consultant and mentor to new leaders like you. I promise it's not as daunting as standing in front of a packed school auditorium with a microphone!


Your initial 90 days are like the first pages of a new chapter, setting the tone for your tenure. It's an unparalleled opportunity to build relationships and lay the groundwork for impactful leadership. But how to steer this sizable ship towards the horizon of success? Here are some time-tested tips for your 90-day entry plan:


Listen and Learn: Treat your first few weeks like an extended orientation. Have conversations with teachers, parents, students, custodians, cafeteria staff — everyone who makes your school tick. Try to understand the dynamics, the strengths, the challenges. Hold events for your community to come in and meet you. Take time to meet with each of the teams on your campus. Don't try to fix anything yet, just observe and LISTEN. 


Analyze and Assess: Gather data about your school's academic performance, demographics, community engagement, etc. Think of yourself as a detective piecing together the story of your school. 


Recommit to or Create a Shared Vision: You're the new captain of this ship. What's your course? The school may be operating under a previously adopted vision and mission. The voices and vision of all stakeholders should be taken into account whether the school’s current mission statement is something the stakeholders feel strongly about or your school community is primed to work together to create a new vision and mission. 


Build Trust and Relationships: This one is crucial. Be visible, accessible, approachable, and genuinely interested in the people around you. Don't hide in your office like it's an ivory tower. Walk the halls, visit classrooms, attend extracurricular activities. Become a part of your school community.


Identify Quick Wins: Look for areas where immediate improvements can be made without too much disruption. Whether it's enhancing a communication protocol or recognizing teacher efforts, these small victories can build momentum and boost morale. 


Develop a Strategic Plan: Based on your observations, data, and interactions, start working on a strategic plan. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day (or even 90 days), so prioritize what's important and chart a feasible roadmap. This is something that should be done in collaboration with your campus leadership team. 


Communicate, Communicate, Communicate: Keep the lines of communication open with all stakeholders. Share your findings, plans, and ask for feedback. Think of your communication strategy as a bridge connecting you with your school community.


Remember, you're not expected to work miracles in your first 90 days. Nor should you. Instead, focus on creating a foundation of understanding, trust, and shared purpose. Your first 90 days set the stage for your tenure, and a thoughtful entry plan can be crucial to your success. 


So, while these first 90 days might seem like trying to build a plane while flying it, with careful planning, an open mindset, and a good sense of humor, you can navigate this period with grace and confidence. Here's to your success in your new role as a school principal.



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