How do New Year’s resolutions differ between principals and teachers?

You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.

~ Martin Luther King Jr.

Are you curious about what New Year’s resolutions your colleagues made? Making New Year’s resolutions is a popular tradition all over the world. People make resolutions for personal and professional development. If you are a principal, do you think you have a similar New Year’s resolution as your teachers? If you are a teacher, do you think your New Year’s resolution mirrors your principal? How do New Year’s resolutions differ between principals and teachers? New Year’s resolutions can be an excellent way for principals and teachers to set goals and make positive school changes. After being in schools these last few weeks, here are some major themes that keep coming up. Could one of them be part of their New Year’s resolution? See what you think.

Top 5 Principal New Year’s Resolutions Ideas 

1. I will set specific goals for student achievement and develop a plan of action to support student success.
2. I will encourage teacher engagement and professional development opportunities, and provide support and resources to help teachers improve their practice.
3. I will focus on fostering a positive school culture that promotes positive relationships and a sense of belonging among all school community members.
4. I will use data-driven decision-making to identify areas of concern and areas of strength to make informed decisions about instruction and interventions.
5. I will encourage a culture of continuous improvement by regularly evaluating the effectiveness of the school’s programs and initiatives, and making adjustments as needed.

Top 5 Teacher Resolutions  

1. I will increase student achievement by improving test scores and reducing absenteeism.
2. I will look for professional development opportunities that help me implement evidence-based strategies in their classrooms.
3. I will focus on creating a positive classroom culture that promotes positive relationships and a sense of belonging among students.
4. I will use student data to inform instruction and to make adjustments as needed.
5. I will reflect on what is and is not working for students in my classroom and make adjustments as needed.

In conclusion, while both teachers and principals have different roles and responsibilities, both strive to improve student achievement and create a positive learning environment for their students. Because of this, their New Year’s resolutions are more than likely very similar. Therefore, the key is to align the goals and objectives of both. In this way, you will achieve a cohesive and effective approach to the new year.

Lastly, it’s important to note that setting goals and making resolutions are only the first step, the most important thing is to have a plan of action, and follow through with it, by setting clear objectives, monitoring progress, and being accountable for the results. Here is a resource to get you started with making your New Year’s resolution a reality.

DOT IT software and professional learning motivate and empower teachers, coaches, and administrators to implement the highest quality plans and the most effective practices with the best evidence of progress for smarter MTSS and Special Education. Contact us to learn more.