The Principal's Handbook

Are you truly prepared to lead instruction next year, or are you hoping to figure it out on the fly? In this episode of The Principal’s Handbook, we dive into Part #3 of our summer planning mini-series: the three key steps I’m taking right now to plan for instructional leadership in my new school. From digging into curriculum (and why you can’t skip this), to analyzing building data trends, to strengthening collaboration structures like PLCs and TBTs—this episode is packed with practical ways you can set your staff and students up for academic success.

Whether you’re leading a brand-new building, changing grade levels, or just want a smarter plan for next year, tune in for insights that will help you be a more intentional instructional leader.

Plus, grab my 8 to 4 Principal Planner—the tool I use to stay on top of meetings, classroom visits, and keep the focus on what matters most. 

We’re proud to be sponsored by Playworks, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with evidence-based practices that help schools improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play.

If you’re a school or district leader struggling with the challenge of chronic absenteeism, as so many are across the U.S., you may not realize that structured recess is a research-backed approach to keep kids in school. In fact, a UC Berkeley study of Title I schools found that those partnering with Playworks had significantly lower chronic absenteeism rates. Further, Mathematica research demonstrated that Playworks schools spent 27% less time transitioning from recess back to learning, saving teachers valuable instructional time. 

These results are possible for your students, too. Learn how Playworks can help you improve student-educator relationships, belonging, and attendance by signing up for a quick no-obligation conversation.