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As I continue my journey in school leadership toward an administrative position, it’s good to be able to list those measurable qualities that influence student performance.  Neil Rochelle at LeaderTalk discusses these factors and shows how they are directly related to student achievement.  The 21 factors are:

1. Culture: The extent to which the principal fosters shared beliefs and a sense of community and cooperation.
2. Order: The extent to which the principal establishes a set of standard operating procedures and routines.
3. Discipline: The extent to which the principal protects teachers from issues and influences that would detract from their teaching time and focus.
4. Resources: The extent to which principals provide teachers with the necessary materials and professional development necessary for the successful execution of their jobs.
5. Curriculum, instruction, assessment:The extent to which the principal is directly involved in the design and implementation of curriculum, instruction and assessment practices.
6. Focus: The extent to which the principal establishes clear and goals and keeps those goals in the forefront of the school’s attention.
7. Knowledge of curriculum, instruction and assessment: The extent to which the principal is knowledgeable about current instruction and assessment practices.
8. Visibility: The extent to which the principal has quality contact and interaction with teachers and    students
9. Contingent Rewards: The extent to which the principal recognizes and rewards individual accomplishments.
10. Communication. The extent to which the principal establishes strong lines of communication with teachers and students
11. Outreach: The extent to which the principal is an advocate and spokesperson for the school to all      stakeholders.
12. Input: The extent to which the principal involves teachers in the design and implementation of important decisions and policies.
13. Affirmation:: The extent to which the principal celebrates school accomplishments and acknowledges failures.
14. Relationships: The extent to which the principal demonstrates an awareness of the personal aspects of teachers and staff.
15. Change Agent: The extent to which the principal is willing to and actively challenges the status quo.
16. Optimizer: The extent to which the principal inspires and leads new and challenging innovations
17. Ideals/beliefs: The extent to which the principal communication and operates from strong ideals and beliefs about schooling.
18. Monitors/evaluates: The extent to which the principal monitors the effectiveness of school practices and their impact on student learning.
19. Flexibility: The extent to which the principal adopts his or her leadership behavior to the needs of the current situation and is comfortable with dissent.
20. Situational awareness:: The extent to which the principal is aware of the details and undercurrents in the school and uses this information to address current and potential problems.
21. Intellectual stimulation: The extent to which the principal ensures that the faculty and staff are aware of the most current theories and practices and makes the discussion of these a regular aspect of the school’s culture.

Link to LeaderTalk: 21 Factors Leaders Demonstrate That Improve Student Achievement