School principals have a lot on their plates. According to2019 reportby the Learning Policy Institute and the National Association of Secondary School Principals, the job's challenges—students' and parents' increasing needs, a lack of resources, low compensation for long hours, and the stress of accountability systems—have led to an18 percent turnover rate. Yet, many principals find workable strategies and support to juggle the responsibilities.
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I do principal "read-alouds" as often as possible. It gets me with kids in a fun and interactive way and I get to carefully select the best and newest books to help build excitement around reading! The kids love to see which book I'm bringing to read to them. —@Principal_Burns
Talk to fellow admins, teachers, students, parents, support staff, clerical, custodial, and food service. Find out what is on everyone else's plate. It may help you find solutions to your own pressures. Listen without judgement. —@whesmesposito
Use @BreneBrown's BRAVING framework. When everyone understands the need for vulnerability, trust, and generosity, it creates collective responsibility and removes the pressure of doing this courageous work alone. —@karamieszanek
The one strategy that helps me to manage the pressures of the principalship is seeing every situation as a learning opportunity and using that learning as I move forward to make even better choices and decisions to support the needs of the school community. —@gillgurmeet01
Incorporating mindfulness into my daily practice has had a profound impact. Starting with something as simple as mindful walking has grown into an essential part of my day. —@aromoslawski
Every Monday, I place five blank notecards on my desk. By the end of the week, I make sure they are all used for notes of "I noticed … " or gratitude to teachers, students, staff, or parents. If on Friday some are left, I don't leave the office until they are written! —@mmnellen
I am transparent about what and how I need support from my colleagues and district supervisors. It's not saying that I can't do it but saying that I need guidance on how to do it better. —@dr_amandaaustin
I go to a gym class where I don't have to make any decisions. The instructors just tell me what to do and I do it, for a whole hour! It really does help reset my head space. —@SDNG02
I have a dedicated five-minute reflection time at the end of the day. I write my thoughts, thanks, and lessons learned in my diary. Every now and then I revisit and can track my journey as a leader. —@IKarariga
Getting in the classroom! Nothing relieves the pressure like seeing students loving their classes and teachers. It reminds us of why we do what we do each day! —@justinhefner
I determine which big rocks I will handle and delegate the other rocks to my admin team. My secretary helps by monitoring my calendar and incoming calls. This is a game changer. —@elvisepps
I have a strong, cohesive leadership team that I trust unequivocally. They offer great insight and perspective, and their collaboration and support make all the difference. This sometimes-lonely job never feels that way because of these incredible educators. —@KWPrincipalWorc
I manage the pressures of principalship by scheduling daily classroom time. The coach in me gets to give teachers feedback on the spot and the teacher in me gets to ask students to share their thinking process. It's a win-win-win! —@yaraylsa
My superintendent shared a wise message that we should "always live in a state of preparedness." While I may be unable to predict the unexpected circumstances ahead, what I can do is prepare my heart and mind to be in alignment with my people so that together we can see the possibilities within the obstacles. —@McCombsAshley
