Every school can become a great school. All it takes is great communication, solid academics, inspiring teachers, enthusiastic parents, and a supportive board. Some schools have solid academics and inspiring teachers but don't get the word out about their teachers and what's being taught. In other words, they lack great communication. Some schools have visionary leaders but lack the support of their board of trustees. You need all five attributes present to be a great school. Let's look at them in detail.
Great Communication
Thirty years ago, most schools published an expensive printed catalog that looked like one of those expensive coffee table books. Indeed, that was how it was intended to be used. When parents had their friends over, and your school's beautiful, eye-catching catalog was spotted, the conversation invariably turned to St. Swithin's, how great that school was, and how much their children enjoyed going there. Many schools still produce those lavish catalogs and they can and do serve a purpose. Truthfully, they have mostly gone the way of the buggy whip.
The other old-fashioned way of communicating was by writing a letter or sending a thank you note. Catalogs and letters have been replaced by email, texting and messaging via apps like WhatsApp and Viber, as well as social media such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. Nowadays, we all expect communications to be instantaneous. We have to get our news and information at warp speed. Of course, letters still have their place for formal matters such as admissions, contracts, etc. But you know how your smartphone blows up when some breaking news story hits. Rapid, accurate communications are great communications in the 21st century.
This TedX Talk discusses strategies for effective communications.
Solid Academics
You may think that solid academics should be No. 1 on the list of attributes a school must have to be great. I agree with you, but if nobody knows how solid those academics are, then greatness has slipped from your grasp. Anyway, let's look at what constitutes solid academics. And let's also be clear about academics. It doesn't matter what the approach is as long as it is well-thought-out and expertly executed. This dictum applies to progressive schools, schools with International Baccalaureate or Advanced Placement curricula, Classical Christian schools, Waldorf schools, Montessori schools, military schools, religious and parochial schools, etc. Academic accreditation is an integral part of confirming the high standard of a school's academics. Accreditation is the educational equivalent of the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval.
This video discusses accreditation and its importance.
Inspiring teachers
Like most of you, my teachers were a varied lot. Some were brilliant and inspiring. Some are tired and worn out. So, what are the characteristics of an inspiring teacher?
An inspiring teacher is passionate about her subject matter and genuinely loves sharing her knowledge with students. Her enthusiasm is contagious and motivates students to engage and excel. She maintains a positive attitude, even in challenging situations. That, in turn, impacts her students' attitudes and willingness to learn. Inspiring teachers foster a supportive and encouraging environment where students feel valued and empowered.
Effective teachers think outside the box and are willing to try new approaches to engage students. They incorporate innovative teaching methods, technology, and real-world examples to make learning exciting and relevant. Inspiring teachers take time to understand each student's unique strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles. They show empathy and compassion, creating a safe space for students to express themselves and take risks.
"Jannetta Carney and Stephanie Schultze! These two crazy ladies got me right out of my shell and made me realize my talent within. They saw something in me that wanted out and pushed me towards it. You two are the reason I never shut up!" - Kayla Thompson Source: Goodnet
Inspiring teachers also set high expectations for their students. They believe in their students' potential and challenge them to reach beyond their comfort zones. They communicate, listen actively, and provide constructive feedback that helps students grow academically and personally. They lead by example, demonstrating the values and behaviors they want to instill in their students. They exhibit integrity, resilience, and lifelong learning, inspiring students to emulate those traits.
Enthusiastic parents
The best marketing tool any school has is an enthusiastic parent. When parents are happy, they talk. When they are pleased with how the school educates their children, they will talk about their school in glowing terms. As the Mastercard commercial used to say, that endorsement is "Priceless!" Involve your parents in school activities. Speak with them. See out their advice and opinions. Being proactive with your parents will help make your school a great school.
Supportive board
Behind every successful head of school is a supportive board of trustees. The board knows that it has chosen the head of school to administer the school and carry out board policies. Board members know better than to try to interfere in day-to-day operations. That's the head of school's job. The situation calls for teamwork and the best possible communication according to the board's protocols.
Keep your board involved. Don't let members become bored or stagnate. Develop and implement a strategic plan with them in concert with their wishes and abilities. Great schools have boards of trustees that see the big picture and plan for a dynamic future for the school they care about.
Conclusion
As you already know, there are no secrets to becoming a great school. Many steps will make your school great when you implement and execute those steps consistently. Be aware of socioeconomic and political trends that impact your school. Yes, I'm telling you to play offense. That way, your school will become a great school.
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