Dear Parents,

A great deal has been written on effective school leadership.  Researches such as Robert Marzano, Michael Fullen, Stephen Covey, Richard Elmore, James Collins, Ronald Heifetz and Marty Linsky, and James Spillane have spent their careers researching and working in environments that have proven theories that influence leadership in K-12 education.  I spent a great deal of my doctoral course work studying these individuals; they are theorist in the leadership classes I teach at Regis University, they are individuals that influence the studies I've reviewed for the Social Development Journal (yes, I review research for publication), and they are the theorists used by most school districts across the country when crafting leadership training.

Therefore, the underpinning of quality leadership, student achievement, and teacher support stems from paying attention to what research suggest for effective implementation.  It boils down to effective leadership and collaboration that is based on non-negotiable factors that govern all schools.  The non-negotiables will vary from school system to school system, but the underpinnings remain the same.

What does this mean at Blessed Sacrament Catholic School?

All initiatives and curricular consideration must align with these.  These factors DO NOT mean that collaboration and input from all stakeholders is not part of the culture.  On the contrary, the format that is in place allows for a rich dialogue between administration, staff, and parents.  We currently have several formal advisory groups that assist me and Fr. Chris on school initiatives and issues.  Standing groups are Finance Council, Elementary School Advisory Committee, Middle School Advisory Committee, PTSA, and the Big Event Committee.  We often call additional ad hoc groups to meet to discuss specific items and their outcomes.  We are currently working with a group for just this purpose.  In addition, we meet regularly with parents who have ideas, issues, concerns, etc.  All in all, I welcome ideas, suggestions, concerns, etc. from all stakeholders.  An example - last week a parent emailed me asking about high school math requirements.  I was happy to find the answer to each question, and emailed the parent back with a comparison on math programs at East, Regis Jesuit, and Machebeuf High Schools.  Another parent and I discussed the effectiveness of DIBELS compared to DRE.  I indicated that I was open to exploring DRE to see if it meets our needs more effectively.

 

It is very important for us to understand that ALL ideas are welcome, and yet, not all will be implemented as they may not meet the requirements outlined above.  It is certainly not my intent that folks think that we are inflexible, or overtly willing to implement an idea.  On the contrary!  We cannot possibly make BSCS a rich environment without all participating in and supporting the program at the highest level!

 

Thank you for your support and willingness to partner with us as we provide our children with the best education possible!

 

Blessings,

Carla