W. Va. Code R. § 126-147-4

Current through Register Vol. XLI, No. 50, December 13, 2024

Section 126-147-4 - Qualities, Proficiencies, and Skills

4.1. The following qualities, proficiencies and leadership skills are required of principals after January 1, 1997:

4.1.1. Vision: The ability to facilitate the development, articulation, and implementation of a vision and goals that are shared and supported by the school community. This ability is demonstrated when:

a. The school vision reflects high standards for student learning and the belief that all students can learn.

b. The school is driven by an alignment of national, state and school goals.

c. The vision, goals and expectations, and implementation plan are clearly communicated to staff, parents, students and community members.

d. A consensus regarding vision is developed among all stakeholders (staff, parents, students, community).

e. A clearly articulated implementation plan, containing objectives and strategies to achieve the vision and goals, is developed.

f. Vision, goals and implementation plans are regularly monitored, evaluated and revised.

4.1.2. School Culture/Instruction: The ability to advocate, nurture, and sustain the development of a school culture and instructional program that is conducive to student learning and staff professional development. This ability is demonstrated when:

a. Student learning is viewed as the fundamental purpose for education.

b. A culture of high expectations is evident for self, student, and staff performance.

c. Staff and students are treated with courtesy, fairness, dignity and mutual respect.

d. Student and staff accomplishments are recognized and celebrated.

e. Relationships are built through a nurturing environment for staff and students.

f. Technology is effectively used in promoting student learning and staff professional growth.

g. A variety of approaches to learning is available to all students.

h. Curricular programs are designed, implemented, evaluated and refined on a continuing basis.

i. Curriculum decisions are based on research, expertise of teachers, and recognized promising practices.

j. The importance of career selection is evident in curriculum and instruction.

k. Multiple sources of information regarding performance are used to assess student learning and to foster program improvement.

l. Student assessment establishes high performance standards.

m. The principal serves as a mentor and coach for staff.

n. Personnel evaluation is used as a means to promote staff growth and including coaching and motivating techniques.

o. Professional development promotes a focus on student learning consistent with the school vision and goals.

p. Student problem areas are reviewed and recommendations are made for appropriate instructional modifications/interventions.

4.1.3. Management/Environment: The ability to ensure management of the organization, operations, and resources for a safe, efficient, and effective learning environment. This ability is demonstrated when:

a. Knowledge of learning, teaching, and student development is used to make informed management decisions.

b. Continuous improvement strategies are evident in all aspects of the school environment.

c. Operational procedures are designed and managed to maximize opportunities for successful learning.

d. Technology is used effectively to find, retrieve, and analyze the appropriate data to guide long-range planning and daily practice.

e. A collaborative, team building approach to organize the school is in place

f. Faculty senate is used to make a positive impact on instructional and management decisions.

g. Understanding of the strength of diversity is promoted.

h. A process for resolving conflict is established and implemented.

i. Staff selection is a collaborative process.

j. The school plant, equipment, and support system operates safely, efficiently and effectively.

k. Laws, policies and regulations are observed in maintaining a safe, supportive environment.

l. Confidentiality and privacy of school records are maintained.

m. A variety of sources of information including data, experience, expertise, vision and goals, is used to make decisions.

n. Prioritization and decisiveness are evident in decision-making by the principal.

o. Problems are identified and resolved in a timely manner.

p. Project management is effective and efficient.

q. Strategic planning provides opportunities for longitudinal data collection and revision of programs.

r. Resources and funds are used appropriately and wisely.

s. Time is managed to maximize attainment of organizational goals.

t. Delegation of authority is used to the benefit of staff and administration.

u. Staff empowerment is coupled with responsibility and accountability.

v. Consensus is used as a means of management.

4.1.4. Community: The ability to collaborate with families and community members, respond to diverse community interests and needs, and mobilize community resources. This ability is demonstrated when:

a. Families and other stakeholders are involved in school decision-making.

b. Families are partners in the education of their children.

c. Diversity is recognized and valued.

d. The school and community serve one another as resources.

e. Partnerships are established with area businesses, institutions of higher education, and community groups to strengthen programs and support goal attainment.

f. Available community resources are secured to help the school solve problems and achieve goals.

g. Local school improvement councils make effective decisions.

h. The establishment and implementation of a comprehensive program of community relations informs and involves the public in all aspects of the school.

i. Students and parents are viewed as clients.

j. Excellent communication skills: (written, verbal, listening, interpretative, conferencing and grammatical), are used by the principal.

k. Meetings are chaired effectively.

l. Consensus is used as a decision-making tool.

4.1.5. Professional: The ability to act with integrity, fairness and in an ethical manner. This ability is demonstrated by the principal when:

a. The highest personal and professional values are reflected and required.

b. Integrity and ethical behaviors are reflected and required.

c. Dedication through commitment and involvement is displayed.

d. A positive attitude and pride in the school and community are evidenced in his/her serving as a role model in the community.

e. The legitimate authority of others is recognized and reflected.

f. Legal and contractual obligations are fulfilled.

g. Laws and procedures are applied fairly, wisely, and consistently.

h. The influence of his/her office is used constructively and productively in the service of students and their families.

i. Reflective practice is used to maximize effectiveness.

j. A commitment to life-long learning and professional renewal is practiced.

k. Current research in professional practice is applied.

4.1.6. Systems: The ability to understand, respond to, and influence the large political, social, economical, cultural, and legal context as it relates to the school. This ability is demonstrated when:

a. Active involvement and communication with the larger community are a high priority.

b. Relationships with community leaders are identified and nurtured.

c. System thinking to ensure that decisions reflect input from all stakeholders is used.

d. A local, national and global perspective in decision making is evidenced.

e. A pioneer spirit as a courageous entrepreneur, willing to take measured risks, is evidenced.

f. A professional image is conveyed.

g. Democratic principles in day-to-day operations are evidenced.

h. Federal, state and county policies are implemented and observed.

W. Va. Code R. § 126-147-4