Are We Adequately Preparing Principals for the Role? A Principal Preparation Practicum Program Review

• In Event: 32.082 - Roundtable Session 11
  In Roundtable Session: 32.082-1 - Developing Principals to Become Instructional Leaders

Abstract

A principal preparation practicum review was conducted on a university preparation program to identify strengths and areas for growth, with particular attention to instructional supervision and leadership. Findings should inform others wishing to focus on program improvement and help districts plan for continued support of principals in their early years. Practicum logs and portfolio documents were analyzed for diversity of attention to standards which drive programs and recommendations in the literature. Additionally, portfolio reflections were analyzed for themes that represent the strengths and areas for growth. Preliminary findings indicate that while practicum requirements meet some of the recommendations, they can be strengthened by increasing diversity of the sites in where hours are completed and an increased focus on instructional supervision.

Author

• Margaret A Scott, University of Colorado - Colorado Springs