Breakout Session 4.7: Become Part of the Solution (Leading instructional improvement beside teachers)
At Oxford Elementary, a low performing school is 21-22, our leadership team became part of the solution. We created weekly Curriculum and Instruction PLCs. These PLC’s are not just for teachers, they are led by the principal and academic facilitator. Yes that's right, as the principal I led weekly planning meetings to work side by side with staff to plan instruction, deconstruct standards, and develop common assessments. This direct support with our teams has contributed to a “we” not “me” culture. School leaders are tasked with leading, coaching, and supporting their teachers to ensure that the young people in their schools are held and taught well. In order to do that, teachers must be held well. To do so, principals must: make themselves fully available and create opportunities for collaboration, offer multiple feedback loops, focus on keeping the main thing as the main thing, and prevent barriers to instruction. Principals should also be viewed as curriculum leaders. As the principal I was able to assist teachers on a regular basis as we created learning opportunities that are beneficial for students. This collaborative planning approach has shown staff that I am dedicated to supporting teachers and working alongside them to make decisions and create opportunities in the best interest of our students.