Thoughts of Administrator Inquiry and PLC's

Administrator Inquiry vs. Traditional Inquiry

As I was reading the first article, it made me stop and think how much the study requirements have changed for those seeking to become administrators.  In the mid-80's all you needed to become an administrator was a mid-management certificate. The profile and preparation of the instructional leader has dramatically changed. 

In the traditional fashion, schools would seek outsiders to help with issues affecting the school. Many of these outsiders really didn't understand the culture, let alone the influences of the community that surrounded the school.  Yet, recommendations were made for changes and many times they were never heard from again. 

Using administrator inquiry serves a purposeful direction to take with issues the principal may be facing.  It places the responsibility of professional growth on the principal. Principals are able to build capacity in their school. Form trusting relationships and improve student performance.

Professional Learning Communities

PLC's are an important part of building capacity in schools.  Many times, unfortunately, PLC's are not used appropriately and teachers become discouraged.  PLC's should be a time for teachers to come together and conduct data analysis of test scores and other assessments. Teachers should be given ample time to do this analysis.

Dana, N.F. (2009).  Leading with passion and knowledge: The principal as action      

            researcher.  Thousand Oaks,  CA: Corwin Press.

Harris, S., Edmonson, S., & Combs, J. (2009).  Examining what we do to improve our   
            schools: 8 steps from analysis to action.  Larchmont, N.Y.: Eye on Education.