Indicator 1

The school board and superintendent shall ensure that the principal has sufficient autonomy and decision-making authority to lead the school in achieving the mission and expectations for student learning.

What to Look for:

Does the principal have the needed autonomy and authority to guide the school effectively in its mission and in meeting the school-wide expectations for student learning?

• the formal job description of the principal defines clearly the responsibilities related to teaching and learning and implementing the mission and grants sufficient autonomy to provide unhampered leadership
• interviews with principal, faculty, and parents, the superintendent, and school board indicate that the principal has been given authority by the superintendent and school board 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 (e.g., a focus is placed on school-wide academic expectations)