UPDATE:
As my often-more-alert husband pointed out: Montclair High is also on the NCLB naughty list --didn't demonstrate AYP, is classified as "in need of improvement."
So, does it matter? I teach about assessment @ MSU. In my classes, we talk mainly about the kinds of assessments teachers do on a daily basis to check understanding. But we do touch on summative, standardized assessment like NCLB. And I think there's some dispute about whether tests can measure a school's beauty.
Maybe the fact that both Montclair AND Trenton Central have similar "report cards" bodes well for Dr. Earle. Maybe that means he knows exactly what he's getting into.
New principal for Montclair High announced yesterday. His name is James Earle and he currently heads Trenton Central High.
Over on the 'Cooler, there's lots of chatter about Central High's dismal showing on state education report cards. It didn't demonstrate something called AYP--adequate yearly progress--and is classified as "in need of improvement." Uh-oh.
Someone suggested the board should host a Town Hall meeting to introduce Dr. Earle to the community; that way, people can address misgivings and hopes for the high school's future up front.
I think this last is a fabulous idea. School systems are like mini-Vaticans in the 15th century--fraught with intrigue, distracted by competing agendas, and hampered by inscrutable hierarchies. (And by school systems, I mean not just the schools, the BOE, etc., but also the parents, students, and general public that comprise its constituency.) In such an environment, rumors can easily fester and ambush even the most earnest soul. And there's something about meeting someone in person--I can't explain it, but you know what I mean. It's relieving, somehow.
Anyway, what are the qualities of a good principal? Here's my list:
* approachable
* warm
* intelligent and intellectual
* doesn't believe parents need parenting advice, but is always open to getting advice (even if it's dumb)
* totally proud of the kids s/he cares for
* taught the grade level(s) s/he principals
* likes (and is familiar with) research about what works
* knows every kid's name
Agree? Disagree? Have something to add?
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Mr. Earle possesses all the qualifications on your list and even more. His management style is welcoming to all. He wants a team of people focused on what is best for the students. He enjoys celebrating successes and working hard to make improvements. Thank you for encouraging people to meet him in person...he is open and warm to everyone. Don't judge him solely on Trenton, his experience goes much deeper than his last job...he has been an educator for nearly 20 years...think of the experiences he has acquired. His background includes towns like Montclair AND places like Trenton. He will know paths to success and be able to avoid potholes along the way.
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