One of the best predictors of teachers leaving their school and the profession altogether is the quality of their principal. A high quality principal has the ability to develop strong relationships with teachers, to be a good listener, and to set goals for the school to be a healthy, caring, and supportive environment. Unfortunately, most principals don’t have training in this area, while the focus of their training remains on test scores, accountability, and instructional leadership – rather than on how to be the social emotional leader of their school.
