According to Marzano, effective principals possess certain character traits, including honesty, fairness and integrity. These traits are recognized by both teachers and students in the classroom. When all individuals feel that they will be treated with fairness and given honest answers to queries, they will be happier and more confident. The principal must also hold himself to the highest ethical standards. If the principal's ethics do not meet these high standards the school will suffer.
The effective principal also demonstrates situational awareness within the school, according to Marzano. The principal should be be actively involved and know what is going on in the classrooms and hallways. A principal who is aware will be able to identify potential issues and undercurrents between students and teachers and may find ways to prevent larger problems and issues in the future.
The education profession is always evolving, with new ideas and strategies arising. An effective principal keeps up with the latest theories and practices. The principal must also keep staff informed of any important legal changes that may affect their jobs and the students. A principal who keeps teachers up to date can help teachers raise average test scores in the school.
An effective principal wants input from his teachers to help make decisions and create policies. The teachers are on the front line, and a principle who involves them will understand more clearly what issues and problems they face, as individuals and a group. These issues may involve curriculum development, using technology in the classroom or the disciplining of students.