Hamilton County Department of EducationFor the last four years, a public-private partnership has worked to prepare Hamilton County’s school leaders for the principal’s office. But a new program unveiled this week will work to make sure those principals get more support once they’re on the job.
After a year of planning, officials with the Hamilton County Department of Education, the Public Education Foundation, the McKenzie Foundation and Unum announced their five-year effort, dubbed “Leadership Pipeline,” to provide support for school leaders throughout their careers, particularly in their first, second and third years on the job.
Superintendent Rick Smith has continually highlighted the important role principals play in the school system. But he said the need for more support is especially pressing this school year, when 25 of the district’s 75 principals are in their first or second year on the job.
“Think about that: Fully one-third of our school leaders are in their first or second year,” the superintendent said.
The Public Education Foundation has hired 16 retired principals to coach new leaders. Those retirees will mentor first- and second-year principals, providing advice, problem-solving help and other support. In the third year, principals will be paired with sitting principals. Beyond that, principals will join one of four local networks for school leaders.