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Philosophy of Education
Education has evolved from providing learners with knowledge to be productive citizens in society to developing complete learners in the areas of social, emotional, and mental maturation. The initial goal was to simply teach learners, now however, the goal is to help the learner understand who they are and how to work in a world that may present many challenges to them. Given this premise, education must then empower learners to be able to change their circumstances by thinking through the decision making process and making the best decision. Education must also promote diversity through the celebration of different cultures. Through this process of education the learner develops into a moral, ethical, and competent citizen.
Philosophy of Leadership
The principal is the instructional leader of the building. The fast pace world of knowledge and information is constantly evolving. The principal must evolve and remain abreast of new ideas and reforms. To do this they must be and model learning leadership. The principal must lead by the example they desire the staff to follow. Supporting this leadership style is the collaborative approach to change. The principal must see himself/herself as an active participant in leadership while working side by side with the staff to reach the desired goal of student achievement.
Vision for Learning
Learning is a natural process that takes place daily. As educators it is our job to maximize the opportunities for students to acquire new knowledge. With learners having different life experiences and coming from different cultures, instruction must be differentiated to meet the needs of the individual learner as much as possible. In support of this type of instruction is the Efficacy Principle, which states that when teachers set high expectations students give high results. This principle gives every student the opportunity to become smart through hard work.
Vision for Teachers
To teach is to care, love, and understand. Every great teacher possess these characteristics, which affords them success with learners. Through self reflective practice and self awareness teachers become “drum majors” for their learners and work hard at motivating learners to high academic achievement. Working collaboratively with colleagues within and outside of the school building, teachers generate energy, ideas, and opportunities to foster student achievement.
Vision for the Organization
Schools must remain focused on their purpose of meeting the needs of their learners. As students needs change, so must the culture and practices of schools. The learners must always be the center of decision making concerning curriculum and instruction. To ensure this, schools must be reflective of their current practices to ascertain that they are applying the best practice to meet the needs of their current student body without deviating from the efficacy principle of setting high expectations. Setting high expectations must never change for schools.
Vision for Professional Growth
Every adult working on behalf of the learner has much to offer the professional community. The desire to better one self must be evident in community members and the willingness to share experiences and knowledge have to manifest in the culture of the school. Being a learner-centered community is the essence of being educators. As information and experiences are shared they must be openly received by all community members. The principal has the major role in this effort which is to find the time for collaboration to take place. True student achievement is the result of everyone working together, sharing ideas, knowledge, and experiences with one another.
Method of Vision Attainment
The desired learning community derives from the efforts that are put forth by all stake holders. The principal must be the inspiration that is needed daily to maintain the flow between all staff members. To do this the principal must develop strong relationships with staff members and get to know each of them. As relationships are forged, it is the vision, and desired school culture that holds relationships together.
Five Year Goals
1. Increase student achievement on Standardized test through staff collaboration and setting high expectations.
2. Increase culture competence within the building for staff and students.
3. Challenge staff to work outside their comfort zone to promote professional growth by presenting controversial topics regarding best practices in education reform.
4. Network with other administrators to build collaboration amongst staff and students.
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