Redefining the school leader

The job description of today's school leader is a far cry from what is was just a generation ago.

Changing demographics, education reform, and an expanding view of school's role in our society have redefined the roles and responsibilities of school superintendents, principals, and administrators up and down the line.

Today, school leaders are under pressure to close performance gaps; raise scores; manage budgets; attract, develop and retain highly qualified teachers; monitor policy and the law; even address students' physical and mental health.

These new responsibilities make sense. What goes on in school is critical, but it is not the only factor in determining how--or even whether--students learn. Research and experience prove that when it comes to academic performance, things such as nutrition, family involvement, and political support matter.

And school leaders are responding accordingly. In New Jersey's Trenton Central High School, for example, school leaders are engaging the community through such initiatives as a monthly "Family Literacy Night," which helps parents participate in their children's education, and a "Parent Linking Network," which supports parents trying to motivate their children to stay in school and succeed academically. ETS is proud to be working with Trenton High on these and other efforts to improve student performance.

If we're going to expect more of school leaders, then we need to support them more. Certainly, they need the financial resources to equip their schools with the necessities of modern education--from textbooks and technology to professional staffs that make learning possible.

School leaders also need a framework for action. The Interstate School Leaders Licensure Consortium has developed an excellent model in its Standards for School Leaders. The consortium stresses that school leaders should be committed to creating safe and supportive learning environments and collaborating with families and the community in support of learning.

ETS stands ready to work with schools and districts that are committed to improvement and meeting tough challenges, just as we've been working with Trenton Central High School in its reform efforts.

At ETS, we're listening to educators, parents and policymakers. We're learning from sound research. And we're leading the effort to achieve both informed public policy and informed educational practice.

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