What Successful Principals Do

Here are practical insights from an experienced principal about how to run a successful school. Organized into three sections (Beginning the School Year, During the School Year, and Ending the School Year) these tips are powerful and attainable. Each one is introduced by an inspiring quote, followed by practical advice on how to implement the strategy. The 169 tips include:

• Encourage Staff to Set Improvement Goals <
• Take Staff on Neighborhood Visits
• Call Parents with Good News Early
• Learn What Parents and Students Want
• Give Messages That Students Are Safe
• Stress Procedures Early
• Be Visible Daily
• Keep No Secrets from Your Staff
• Don't Make Decisions to Keep Friends
• Don't Wait for Group Consensus
• Praise Twice
• Be a Nurturing Leader
• Use Peer Pressure
• Let Kids Work It Out
• Have Family Night Activities
• Admit Mistakes
• Learn to Handle Complaints to Your Superiors
• Have Written Goals and Update Them Regularly
• See the School through the Parent's Eyes
• It Is Better to Do a Few Things Well

Dr. Franzy Fleck is a principal and an associate professor in Evansville, Indiana. Dr. Fleck was a junior high teacher, middle school principal, and district administrator prior to coming to Evansville. He has been in education working with students at the elementary, middle school, high school, and university level.Dr. Fleck has been published in the area of leadership effectiveness, motivation, administration, and leadership. In 2003, he was recognized for excellence in research and leadership by Indiana State University. Most recently, Dr. Fleck was involved in planning and developing the Educational Leadership and Administration program at the University of Southern Indiana where he serves as an associate professor.Dr. Fleck is married to Kristy Fleck, an elementary teacher in Evansville. They have two children, Tyler and Gentry.