Indicator 12

The school board and superintendent provide the principal with sufficient decision-making authority to lead the school.

What to Look for:

• the formal job description of the principal defines clearly the responsibilities related to teaching and learning and ensuring the school community’s core values and beliefs about learning are upheld
• interviews with the principal, faculty, parents, the superintendent, and school board indicate the principal has been given authority by the superintendent and school to make important decisions about the school
• district leaders and the school board seek the wisdom of the principal around important policy decisions and with regard to budget formulation
• the principal supports teaching and learning needs and provides focus on the school’s learning expectations so that all students can achieve them