We love principals. They are our customers, our team members, and educators for our children.
It is a tough job. A little bit of everything – entrepreneur, CEO, salesperson, marketing, finance, athletics director, therapist, lawyer, custodian. It has a bit of everything. So it requires high character, leadership, critical thinking, and thick skin!
No person is perfect, but principals do a lot. Here are just a few of the many reasons we’re grateful for principals, featuring some important Possip Praise; and why principals matter.
1. They lead with vision and action.
Principals guide their schools with a clear sense of purpose, ensuring both students and staff are set up for success each day.
2. They make sure our students and staff are safe.
From ensuring security protocols to creating a culture of care, principals work tirelessly to make schools a safe space for everyone.
“Just good to see how involved the principal is. From when the bells rings in the morning to the end of the day especially at pick up time. He is seen always outside be it raining or sunny involved. Ensuring the kids are transporting safely in a timely manner to their cars and or parents.”
3. They advocate for students.
They advocate for students’ best interests, ensuring they receive the academic, social, and emotional support they need to thrive.
*The new Principal is an outstanding addition. She is caring, firm, flexible and knowledgeable regarding students' education, peer pressure & mental wellness!!!”
4. They mentor teachers.
They give their time to help teachers grow, providing feedback, offering resources, and encouraging professional development.
“Dr. C. is a great principal. She is consistent, clear and fair. She is a good communicator. We always know expectations. She has systems and processes in place that allow us to teach to the best of our ability but also that students learn to the best of theirs.”
5. They foster school spirit.
They come to the volleyball game, buy a cookie at the bake sale, and are at the Friday night football game, cheering alongside students and families.
6. They solve problems.
Whether it’s mediating student conflicts, managing budget constraints, or addressing staffing shortages, principals step in with solutions that benefit everyone.
7. They support parents and families.
Principals often know what families are struggling with and are sensitive to those needs, offering resources or lending a listening ear when times are tough.
“The principal really seems to care for everyone and wants to interact with the parents. For any school events she is always the first person to greet us!”
8. They promote equity and inclusion.
In a school of 1,000 students, they know each student’s name, making everyone feel seen, respected, and included, no matter their background.
“I am very proud of the changes the school has made with kids. The principal and teacher are amazing. The principal especially takes care of the children like they are family and I love it. She treats everyone equally and with love.”
9. They push for academic excellence.
Principals set high expectations and encourage students and staff to reach their fullest potential through focused academic goals.
10. They show empathy and compassion.
They listen when parents have concerns, they understand when a student is going through a rough time, and they respond to challenges with kindness.
11. They encourage innovation.
Whether it’s bringing new technology into the classroom or supporting creative teaching methods, principals motivate teachers and students to think outside the box.
12. They juggle countless responsibilities.
They manage everything from budgeting and scheduling to addressing behavioral issues, all while keeping their schools running smoothly.
13. They build strong teams.
From ensuring security protocols to creating a culture of care, principals work tirelessly to make schools a safe space for everyone.
“I must give special recognition to Principal O. for assembling an amazing team. Her leadership has cultivated a workplace where teachers feel valued, supported, and empowered to give their best to our students.”
14. They celebrate achievements.
Whether it’s recognizing a student’s improvement in math or celebrating a teacher’s milestone, principals make sure achievements don’t go unnoticed.
15. They handle crises with grace.
When a sudden snowstorm forces a school closure or an emergency occurs, principals stay calm under pressure, guiding their community through difficult times.
“Praise to the Principal's quick reaction to threats and timely communication with people.”
16. They encourage student leadership.
Principals inspire students to take on leadership roles, from being class officers to organizing community service events, helping them develop confidence and responsibility.
17. They nurture a positive school culture.
They promote kindness, respect, and inclusion, ensuring the school feels like a welcoming space for students and staff alike.
“My department has brought many concerns to our administration (specifically the principal) this year. Speaking with the principal is always inviting and comfortable which makes it much easier for me to be transparent with my concerns.”
18. They champion lifelong learning.
Principals encourage both students and staff to keep learning and growing, whether through professional development or personal growth opportunities.
19. They provide stability.
In uncertain times, whether during a pandemic or a personal crisis, they offer reassurance and consistency, providing a stable foundation for their community.
20. Yes. They tolerate all of us.
They deal with parents, kids, and teachers—even when we’re not at our best—offering patience and understanding when emotions run high.
Thank you, Principals!
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