One of the most central things a good principal does is to develop a community atmosphere in a school. An effective school community means that educators, administrators, staff, students and parents all recognize their shared goals of student learning and their interrelationship with each other. While happy parents, faculty and kids are all obvious signs of a positive school community, good principals even help behind-the-scenes support staff, custodians and cleaners feel at home.
The academic success of students is the ultimate measure of a principal's success. While various student aptitude tests compare a school's students with same-aged peers, some schools and districts face greater economic and functional challenges than others; therefore, the real goal of effective principals is to better the success of the student population they deal with. A winter 2013 study and report from "Education Next" noted that its analysis concluded that effective principals can cause students to learn anywhere from two to seventh months more during a single school year compared to less effective teachers.
Good principals are a teacher's best friend. The "Education Next" study revealed that teachers leaving schools with good principals were normally low performing compared with teachers leaving schools with less effective principals. The moral of the story is that principals with high standards but a supportive attitude foster an environment that brings out the best in all teachers, but also attracts the best teachers. A good principal understands the challenges teachers face, counsels formally and informally and compliments teachers for their work ethic, interest in students and distinct ideas. Principals also go to bat for teachers in union conflicts or when appropriate in dealing with parent complaints.
Principals play various roles, including faculty and staff supervisor, school CEO, student ambassador, disciplinarian and community representative for the school. Above all else, success across the board in these roles requires that a principal communicate well. Internally, principals must inform, coach and motivate employees one-on-one and in large group settings. They also periodically lead all-school assemblies that give students out-of-class experiences and school spirit. Principals may also participate in school board meetings and provide information to the media on school activities. These community roles help project a positive image of the school.