In this episode of The Best of Us, building principals Christy Whatley and Paul Offill discuss school leadership strategy for professional learning and teacher support. They give us the nitty-gritty on implementing a CHAMPS program district-wide, plus tips for consistent follow-through and using data to demonstrate the program's effectiveness.

Christy and Paul also address the challenges of teacher evaluation from a building leader’s perspective, supporting educators from non-traditional backgrounds, setting a campus tone, and much more.

Listen now:

Christy Whatley and Paul Offill (00:01:48) Introduction to the role of building principals and their backgrounds.

‍Demographics and School Programs (00:03:17) Christy and Paul describe the demographics and programs at their respective schools.

‍Setting the Culture (00:05:45) Christy and Paul discuss how they set the tone and culture for their staff and families.

‍Professional Learning at Paul's Campus (00:09:20) Paul explains the approach to professional development at his campus, including teacher-led PD and leveraging expertise within the building.

‍Professional Learning at Christy's Campus (00:11:50) Christy details the professional development approach at her campus, including teacher surveys and utilizing learning coaches.

‍Role of the Principal in Professional Learning (00:14:22) Christy and Paul discuss the principal's central role in ensuring professional learning has an impact in the classroom, including providing time, follow-up, and data-driven feedback.

‍Implementing the CHAMPS Program (00:17:10) Discussion about the implementation and impact of the CHAMPS behavior management program in the district.

‍Impact of CHAMPS on Campus Behavior (00:18:15) Observations and data showing the positive impact of CHAMPS on campus behavior and teacher buy-in.

‍Teacher Retention and Staffing Challenges (00:21:46) Challenges faced by the district and individual campuses regarding teacher retention and staffing, particularly with alternative certified teachers.

‍Challenges of Teacher Evaluation (00:24:04) Challenges related to teacher evaluation, including the lack of traditional education background for some teachers and the need for a growth-oriented approach.

‍Improving Teacher Evaluation Process (00:29:51) Efforts to improve the teacher evaluation process, including being present in classrooms, providing feedback, and offering resources for growth.

‍Walkthroughs and Data Collection (00:31:34) Principals discuss the importance of walkthroughs, campus focus areas, and academic data collection for professional development and teacher feedback.

‍Scheduling Classroom Visits (00:33:31) Principals discuss their scheduling strategies to ensure intentional and regular classroom visits, emphasizing the importance of being present as instructional leaders.

‍Principal-Coach Relationship (00:37:35) The discussion focuses on the relationship between principals and coaches, emphasizing trust, shared expectations, and the need for a safe space for teachers.

‍Coaching and Teacher Support (00:40:51) Principals emphasize the vital role of coaches in supporting teacher growth, building relationships, and creating a positive impact on the campus.

Professional Growth and Leadership (00:44:15) Principals discuss the importance of professional growth, teacher leadership, and creating a positive impact on the school campus.

‍Modeling Non-Negotiables (00:46:08) Leadership and modeling non-negotiables as a way to earn respect and move people in the right direction.

‍Being Liked vs. Being Respected (00:47:07) The importance of consistency and being respected rather than being liked in leadership roles.

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