Great principals do a thousand things in a given week. They solve problems, support teachers, calm worried parents, guide students, analyze data, and keep a school moving forward.
It’s complex work. But when you step back and look closely, the most effective principals tend to get a few foundational things consistently right.
Here are ten of the habits that set great principals apart:
1. They recognize the value of every adult in the building. From teachers to custodians to office staff, great principals know that schools succeed because of people. They notice the work others do, and they make a point to say thank you often.
2. They support their teachers—especially when it matters most. Whether the challenge is a difficult student, a frustrated parent, or a tense situation with a colleague, great principals stand beside their teachers. They trust them. They believe in them. And their staff knows they have someone in their corner.
3. They lead from the halls, not just the office. Great principals understand that leadership happens where learning happens. You’ll find them in classrooms, hallways, the lunchroom, the bus line, and at carpool—engaging with students and connecting with staff.
4. They involve others in decisions. Great principals know they don’t have all the answers—and they don’t try to. They seek input, invite perspectives, and empower others to help shape the direction of the school.
5. They stay focused on learning. Student achievement is always on their radar. They spend time in classrooms, encourage strategic instruction, and ensure assessments are meaningful. Most importantly, they help teachers use data to better meet the needs of their students.
6. They cultivate collaboration. Great principals know that teaching can’t be a solo sport. They intentionally create structures and expectations that help teachers learn from one another and grow together.
7. They refuse to settle for the status quo. The best principals hold high expectations—for themselves and for everyone in the building. They articulate a compelling vision and challenge their school community to keep getting better.
8. They protect staff morale. Great principals know that culture matters. They work to create an environment where teachers feel respected, supported, and proud to work.
9. They bring positive energy every day. Schools are emotional places, and leadership energy is contagious. Great principals understand that positivity isn’t optional—it’s essential.
10. They always keep students at the center. Every decision, every conversation, every initiative ultimately comes back to one question: What’s best for kids? Great principals build relationships with students and make sure their well-being and success drive the work of the school.
None of these practices require perfection. But when principals commit to these habits day after day, they create schools where teachers feel supported, students feel valued, and learning thrives.
Cheers,
Danny
@DMills01 Miss you, my friend! Keep doing big things as you are making such a wonderful impact on others! And you know me girl! Even as a principal, I always have a teachers heart five days before actual reporting day building was open! Have a great school year!🫶🏻🫶🏻💕💕
On Wednesday. we welcomed new @GCSS_FS employees to our school family! Had @WaffleHouse breakfast at @GCSSK12 New Employee Orientation at City Park! When enrollment SOARs, you continue adding ! Stay tuned for introduction posts! We are so excited! Welcome to the #Herd! ❤️🐘
I'm excited to speak at HIVE 2024 about Teacher Morale & Multilingual learners! Come join me and hear about the work we are doing @GCSS_FS in Gainesville, GA! https://t.co/GEQKNfv1Xb @openupresources#OURHIVE@sched
My amazing @GCSS_FS teachers are traveling to Denver Colorado for the @openupresources#Hive2024 & Bookworms Conference! How awesome is it when you also run into a FSIA parent at Denver airport! @GCSSK12#1herd is everywhere! ❤️And yes, friends I’m seeing @harveyoaxaca too! ⛰️
And….. Year 29 as an educator Year 2 as a Principal! That’s a wrap! Bring on year 30! Hello Summer, I’ve missed you so! 🫶🏻 #principalsstillworksummer Best Admin team on Earth! Will miss these 2
Thanks to @FirstBaptistChurch of Gainesville & Promising Futures for spoiling our teachers with a delicious breakfast this morning for #TeacherAppreciationWeek & #StaffAppreciationWeek! We love our faith based partnerships & love our Fair Street team! 🫶🏻❤️🫶🏻 @FSIAprincipal
Congratulations are in order for our outstanding 1st grade teacher, Mayra Lemus @GCSS_FS Teacher of the Year for 2024-2025! It’s even more special your fam secretly attends to surprise you! Mayra’s mom, twin & other sister there to share in the joy! Shoutout out nominees too! 🎉
We made sure to give a special shoutout to this incredible team of Administrative Professionals flowers, donuts, personalized tote bags, lunch &lots of love from our staff!Your tireless efforts & commitment to excellence are invaluable to our school community! @FSIAprincipal